El Altar, Two-day tour

The two-day "El Altar" tour takes you on an impressive hike up the extinct volcano, located in Sangay National Park. During the tour, you will enjoy spectacular mountain landscapes, lagoons, brightly colored glaciers, and rich biodiversity.

What to bring?
Snacks.
Gloves.
Camera.
Sunscreen.
Flashlight
Sunglasses.
Clean water.
Warm clothes.
Trekking poles.
Waterproof jacket.
Comfortable shoes.
Water bottle (1 liter).

Recommendations:
Equipment: It is recommended to bring warm and waterproof clothing, hiking boots, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water, and snacks.
Acclimatization: It is important to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the ascent. It is recommended to spend at least one day in Baños de Agua Santa (1820 meters above sea level / 5971 feet) before starting the hike. 
Physical condition: The ascent to El Altar volcano is a demanding activity that requires good physical condition. 

Itinerary

Day 1:
7:30 AM: Departure from Baños in a private vehicle or tourist transport. Estimated travel time: 2 hours and 30 minutes.
10:00 AM: Arrival at Hacienda Releche. Welcome reception by the hacienda staff.
10:30 AM: Start of the hike to El Altar Refuge, located in the Collanes Valley. The trail crosses Andean landscapes of great beauty, with unique flora and fauna. The difficulty level of the hike is moderate, with a constant uphill slope.
1:00 PM: Stop to enjoy a box lunch in a picturesque spot along the way.
3:00 PM: Continuation of the hike until reaching El Altar Refuge. Accommodation in shared or private rooms (subject to availability).
7:30 PM: Dinner at the refuge.
 
Day 2:
5:00 AM: Early breakfast at the refuge.
5:30 AM: Start of the hike to Laguna Amarilla, located at 4150 meters above sea level (13,615 feet). 
8:00 AM: Arrival at Laguna Amarilla. Free time to admire the beauty of the landscape and take photographs.
9:00 AM: Return to El Altar Refuge.
11:30 AM: Box lunch and packing of equipment for the descent to Hacienda Releche.
1:00 PM: Start of the descent to Hacienda Releche.
4:00 PM: Arrival at Hacienda Releche. Farewell to the staff and free time to rest.
4:30 PM: Return to the city of Baños.