Our adventure started early in the morning, as we were picked up from our hotel in Quito and began our journey to the park. The drive to Cotopaxi was scenic, as we passed through small towns and picturesque landscapes. As we entered the park, Cotopaxi began to peak her head out from behind the clouds. We couldn't help but feel excited about the adventure that awaited us.
Our first stop was at the Limpiopungo Lagoon, where we had the chance to admire the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the diverse flora and fauna of the park. We saw llamas grazing in the distance, while colorful birds flew above us. The elevation wasn't too bad at this point, so we were able to explore the area without any issues. If you are struggling with the elevation though this is a perfectly fine spot to stop, take an easy, flat walk around the lagoon and still enjoy incredible views of the volcano.
Lake in Cotopaxi National Park (Jess Heuermann)
Our next stop was at the Refugio José Rivas, located at an elevation of 15,953 feet. This is where the real adventure began, as we started hiking up to the refugio. The hike was slow going, as the elevation began to take its toll on us. We took plenty of breaks to catch our breath. As we neared the refugio, the wind was really whipping so we were glad to have warm coats and hoods.
Finally, we made it to the Refugio José Rivas, located at an elevation of 16,000 feet. We were met with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the Cotopaxi Volcano towering above us. The Refugio was a cozy little hut, where we were able to warm up with hot chocolate and coca tea. We were proud of ourselves for making it all the way up, and the feeling of accomplishment was indescribable.
Almost 16,000 ft! (Jess Heuermann)
After spending some time at the Refugio, we made our way down to the Hacienda Porvenir, where we took a cooking class and learned how to make ahi hot sauce and empanadas. Our instructor for our private class didn't speak a bit of English but we managed to communicate and learn about the local ingredients used in Andean cuisine. We even got to taste our creations, which were delicious.
Adventure Life is always an excellent choice when planning complicated, extreme, or exotic vacations or expeditions. They provide friendly professional services and advice and are enthusiastic and encouraging in helping us to prepare and thoroughly enjoy our trip. They handle all the details which greatly reduces the stress of planning a difficult trip. I'm very impressed with Adventure Life and definitely recommend them to friends and family.
Scott Trochim
3 days ago
The response from Adventure Life to my first inquiry was prompt and promising. I worked with Jamie Broeckel, Trip Planner, via text, email, and phone calls- always extremely responsive and thorough with information and explaining the process to arrange a private tour for me to Malaysia Borneo. Within about week, the booking was complete and I made decisions because of Jamie's great customer service , friendly manner, and overall competence on behalf of the company's travel expertise. Now I have an itinerary, additional Trip Planner Assistants, several links for vital information for traveling to Maylasia, etc. Still many details for Sept. trip, but now the heavy lifting is done and I can enjoy the rest of the anticipation and research!! Thanks Jamie- you are amazing!!!!
Susan Campo
5 days ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
6 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
