Trek Lloa-Mindo (2 days)

This is a two day tour departing from Quito to Lloa, a small town a few kms from the south of Quito at the foot of the Pichincha volcano. Here we trek into the forest along the “huayrapungo”, which in Quechua means “door to the wind.” The Mindo-Nambillo reserve is traversed by many fast-flowing rivers but there are also open fields and swamps. , a reminder of the eruptions of the Pichinha Volcano that took place between 1999 and 2002. You can only do this hike with a local guide, the trails are unmarked, it is a beautiful hike, full of variety of flora and fauna and with breathtaking views. cross streams along cable cars, plod through muddy swamps, make your way with the machete along overgrown paths, prepare food in the forest and find a place to camp at night.
What to bring: four liters of water, three pairs of socks and two pairs of underwear per day, knife, sleeping pad, rubber boots, hiking boots, insect repellent, hat or cap, towel, toiletries, rain poncho, and a flashlight with extra batteries. Beware: anything you bring with you must be able to carry during the entire tour
Day 1: The guide picks you up at the hotel, you drive with the guide to the foot of the Pichincha. The guide will briefly discuss the journey and then begin the two-day trek towards the cloud forest of Mindo. On the way you stop for lunch and in the evening the tents are erected to spend the night.
Day 2: You get up early to continue the tour. Breakfast is served and the tour continues afterwards. As you approach Mindo you feel how the climate changes to tropical cloud forest and the vegetation also changes. You arrive in Mindo around noon and here you get a nice lunch to regain your strength. You can then relax at the hotel or explore the village which has enough cafes and terraces to make it a relaxing afternoon.