Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Adventures
On Foot
Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve
With nearly a million acres of protected reserve that in-
cludes páramo (sub-alpine) habitat, Ecuador's third-
highest peak, cloud forest, indigenous communities, hot
springs, lakes, streams and sub-tropical forest along the
foothills of the upper Amazon, there is plenty of hiking in Cayambe.
In fact, you could never hope to explore it all, nor would you want to
without a good tour operator, guide or solid backcountry skills. One
great hike is on the route from Oyacachi to Papallacta , a town fa-
mous for its hot springs. Oyacachi itself is a little-known village that
is becoming known as a hidden jewel for its therapeutic mineral
springs, rich culture and as a gateway to the Amazon.
For the intrepid hiker, head down the Oyacachi valley toward El
Chaco. A three-day trekking journey down the eastern slopes to the
upper Amazon is a great adventure through cloud forest, waterfalls,
rivers andmountain scenery. FromOyacachi, head east and downhill
to the cemetery, from which you will come to an ancient stone trail
that follows the Río Oyacachi all the way to El Chaco. Although a
beautiful trek, it is not easy, with thick vegetation in some places and
rivers that require crossing with a cable and harness. Inquire in
Oyacachi for a local guide, or pre-arrange the trip with a Quito-based
trekking outfitter.
There is also plenty of wide-open countryside within the páramo foot-
hills of Volcán Cayambe . Other opportunities exist closer to the
town of Cayambe, which has excellent views of the snow-capped
namesake volcano. If you happen to be staying at Hacienda
Guachala , for example, there is an excellent hike right from the ho-
tel's front door and up the nearby mountain to the pre-Incan ruins of
Pambamarca. With expansive views, this is also a good horseback
ride if your lungs aren't quite adapted to the highlands yet, though its
pretty steep in places. It is a straightforward route. Inquire at
Guachala for horses, a guide or directions (see Where to Stay , page
144).
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