This tour begins with a transfer from Otavalo to the El Ángel Ecological Reserve, a protected area covering over 15,000 hectares of Andean páramo.
The reserve is renowned for its vast landscapes filled with frailejones (Espeletia pycnophylla), an iconic plant of the high-altitude ecosystems that creates one of the most distinctive natural settings in northern Andes.
Upon arrival, we will embark on an interpretative hike along natural trails that traverse this unique high-mountain ecosystem, reaching Laguna del Voladero, a glacial lake situated at over 3,700 meters (12,100 ft) above sea level.
During the walk, the guide will share insights about the biodiversity of the páramo, its characteristic flora, and the ecological importance of this fragile ecosystem, which plays a crucial role in water regulation and conservation across the Andean region.
07:30 – Tour begins, pick-up from your hotel in Otavalo.
09:15 – Arrival at El Ángel Ecological Reserve.
09:30 – Hike along the reserve’s trail through the Andean páramo.
11:00 – End of the hike at the páramo and Laguna del Voladero.
11:15 – Box lunch in the reserve.
11:45 – Free time for photography and enjoying the páramo landscape.
12:15 – Transfer back to Otavalo.
14:00 – Approximate arrival in Otavalo.
Includes:
Guide
Private transportation
Guided walk to Laguna del Voladero
Box lunch
Excludes:
Services or activities not specified in the tour itinerary
Practical Information
Difficulty level: Moderate
Altitude: Between 3,500 and 3,800 meters above sea level
Climate: Mountainous Andean, with average temperatures between 10 °C and 18 °C (50–64 °F)
Important Recommendations
Comfortable clothing suitable for mountain hikes
Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip and reinforced toe for muddy and mountain terrain.
Thermal hat and rain poncho or waterproof jacket
Sunscreen and sunglasses due to strong high-altitude sun exposure
Reusable water bottle (minimum 1 liter per person)
Signing a liability waiver is mandatory before the activity
Optional:
If time allows, visit to a local clay handicraft workshop (entrance and purchases not included)
