Cerro Pasochoa

The heavily eroded extinct volcano Pasochoa tops out at 4,199m, with superb views of the Avenue of the Volcanoes.

There are several approaches on bare, harsh slopes, or through chaparro forest and grassland from the River Pita Canyon, the highest start. You can combine these into a fine traverse.

You can also choose from a selection of trails in the protected forest (and paramo above) of its slopes.

30km south of Quito, it is a day walk but would be demanding if you are fairly recently arrived,

in remote mountains with uncertain weather, where altitude can cause problems. Come prepared.

Have a look at TripAdvisor - there are tens of millions of reviews, so you may get good, current views on guides, places to hike and places to stay on the Galapagos.

Ecuador Climbing and Hiking Guide - Viva,have worthwhile sections on this walk. Find relevant books by using our Amazon search function:

Find the books and maps listed above, and many more:

For more information and photos, including detailed practical information and some warnings, see our Quito Area walk page.

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