Altar Trek 4 days/3 nights, daily from/to Quito The extinct Altar volcano (5.320 m / 17,454 ft) experienced a massive explosion hundreds of years ago, which left a horseshoe-shaped ridge of peaks. You will surely be impressed by the yellow crater lake. This trek is a harmonious combination of physical activity and nature observation.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Quito—Hacienda Releche
After an early-morning departure from Quito, you first drive to Baños and continue southwest to Hacienda Releche (3.080 m / 10,105 ft). Overnight stay at this beautiful hacienda. Enjoy a delicious dinner in front of a cozy fireplace. (-/BL/D)

Day 2: Collanes Valley
After breakfast, you start your hike up the mountain to the Collanes Valley, where the camp will be made at 3.800 m / 12,470 ft, with a fantastic view of the peaks of the Altar volcano. With some luck, you will be able to observe condors or falcons gliding through the clear mountain air.

Day 3: Yellow Lagoon—Crater Rim
You leave early to make your way to the Yellow Lagoon. This hike offers many opportunities to explore the Andean highlands. A steep climb leads up to the rim of the crater at 4.200 m / 13,780 ft, but the spectacular panoramic view will compensate you for your effort and you will have time to rest up on the shores of the crater lake before hiking to the highest point at 4.480 m / 14,700 feet. From this vantage point, you have a breathtaking view of the extinct crater. In the afternoon, you return to your campsite in the Collanes Valley. (B/BL/D)

Day 4: Hacienda Releche—Quito
Your equipment is loaded onto the mules before you hike back to Hacienda Releche. Lunch break with a box lunch. In the afternoon, return to Quito. (B/BL/-)

What you need to bring: rain gear, headlight, warm clothing, sleeping bag, backpack, gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat, small daypack, camera.

 
Services:

• Trekking tour as described, with private transportation
• Qualified English-speaking travel guides (German-speaking travel guides upon request)
• Meals as described in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, BL=Box Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Equipment (2-person tents, mules, cook, support personnel, first-aid kit, rubber boots etc.)
• National park admission fees

Non-included services:

• Suitable sports/hiking/trekking clothing
• Not specified meals and beverages
• Tips and personal expenses

Please be advised: Services listed in the itinerary may be subject to change due to  organizational or climate factors.

 
Prices: 

Minimum number of participants: 2 

Altar Trek, 4 days/3 nights

Subject to change. Prices may be higher on national holidays.