This walking tour of 5 to 6 hours takes place between 4300 and 38300 meters above sea level. We leave Quito in the morning by car and drive to “La Virgen”. The hike starts here at its highest point: from here we descend slowly to Papallacta. On clear days you have a view of some snow-capped volcanoes: the Cotopaxi, Antisana and Cayambe. Along the way we look out for the spectacled bear, the mountain deer, the mountain tapir, paramo wolves and small mustelids. You will find partridges, the chimborazo hummingbird, the Andean gull, ducks, eagles and curiquingues, even condors and other species typical of this ecosystem. A little after noon we arrive at the hot water baths of Papallacta, where you can regain your strength. Here is a fine restaurant. In the evening a car will pick you up in Papallacta and take you back to the hotel in Quito. Included: local English speaking guide, transport by private car H/T, lunch box.