Description

A classic hiking trail for those who want to acclimatize for any of the Ecuadorian snow-capped mountains, since the route is long and always goes above the 4000 meters. This hike have two versions: The short version that goes by the foot of the four Pichincha peaks without climbing to the summits; and the long version with the four Pichincha summits. A highly recommended trail due to its proximity to Quito and its attractive landscapes.

Elevation Table
PlaceElevation
Guagua Pichincha Refuge4568m
Guagua Summit4793m
Padre Encantado4602m
Cerro Ladrillos4589m
Ruco Pichincha4710m
Teleferiqo Quito4000m

Photos

Padre Encantado

Padre Encantado

Cerro Ladrillos

Cerro Ladrillos

Ruco Pichincha (view from Ladrillos)

Ruco Pichincha (view from Ladrillos)

How to get

Western Cordillera; Guagua Refuge is 12 kilometers in a straight line west of Quito.

  1. “Lloa” Approach: The road to LLoa is located at the south of Quito, La Mena 2 neighborhood, Angamarca street. From this place it's possible to take a bus to the town of Lloa. And from there it's possible to rent pickup trucks - taxis that sometimes arrive to the Guagua Pichincha Refuge. The road is paved and in good condition until Lloa, from there cobblestoned and ballasted to the refuge. it's advisable to go by 4×4 vehicles, especially the last section. The return to Quito is very easy by the Teleferiqo cable car that will take you to the lower station where it's very easy to get taxis.

Central North SierraQuito