Conquering the Pasochoa Volcano at 4200 Meters Above Sea Level
Mathy
The “Lonely Widower”
The name Pasochoa comes from two words in the Panzalean language: “Paso” meaning “widower” and “Chu” meaning “lonely”. Therefore it is known as the “Lonely Widower”. The Volcano owes its name to the fact, that it is located in the middle of the eastern and western mountain ranges.
The Pasochoa Volcano is a dormant volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes, that rises majestically to 4200 meters above sea level. In its crater we can observe an exuberant Andean forest completely preserved since there has not been any human intervention. This forest is home to various species of flora and fauna.
It is an ideal destination for those who love mountains, nature and adventures. Its biodiversity and its spectacular landscapes make this hike a unique and unforgettable experience.
This adventure starts with good preparation. Although the ascent to the summit of this volcano isn´t very difficult, it is important to be in a good physical condition and to be acclimatized to the altitude.
The ascent to the summit of the Pasochoa volcano isn´t extraordinarily cold, but you will need to wear clothing suitable for the mountainous climate including thermal jumpers, hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket.
Route to the volcano
On the day that we chose to do this hike, we were able to admire a clear sunrise. For the dates from June to September, it is best to start the trek early in the morning, when the sun is less intense than the rest of the day.
We started our route at around 07:00 am. El Pasochoa is located approximately 40 kilometres southeast of Quito, and the recommended route is the Rumiñahui highway towards the Chillos Valley. Once you reach the Colibri roundabout, take the road to Amaguaña and turn off on the Volcanoes route, towards the hydroelectric plant located on the slopes of the Pasochoa volcano.
Our destination was the Hacienda Mettler, a farm located at the bottom of the volcano where you can leave your car and start the ascent. As it is a private property the entrance fee to this place is $5 dollars.
Once you arrive at the farm you can follow the road as far as your car can go. In our case we drove in a full-wheel drive car and were able to get very close to the summit. In summer there are no difficulties on the ascent as the ground is very dry.
Ascent
The first part of the trail is very pleasant, passing through wooded scrubland where you can listen to the sound of nature. The path winds through lush Andean forests where the air is fresh and clean, filled with the scent of vegetation and birdsongs. Each step takes us deeper into a world where nature shows itself in all its splendor.
As we ascend, the terrain becomes steeper and rockier. Every stop we take to catch our breath is an opportunity to admire the landscape at our feet. A few meters before reaching the summit of the volcano we decided to take another break to see the imposing Cotopaxi Volcano (at 5,897m the highest active volcano in Ecuador).
The altitude challenge
The most challenging part of the ascent comes as we approach the summit. Because of the very high haystacks we lost the normal path and had to climb a large rock to get back to the original route to the summit.
The higher you go, the thinner the air get´s and each step requires more effort. The slope gets steeper and the rocky terrain demands concentration as welll as balance. However, the view from the top motivated us to keep going.
Add Your Heading Text The Summit: Reward and Reflection
Finally, reaching the summit of Pasochoa is an incomparable experience. From an altitude of 4200 metres, the view is simply spectacular. The crater, covered with vegetation, unfolds before us, and in the distance, the majestic Andean peaks complete a dreamlike panorama.
From this height we were able to see the volcanoes Cotopaxi. Sincholahua, Rumiñahui, Antisana and Corazón.
We also had the pleasant company of a young Curiquingue, who greeted us very friendly and accompanied us all the time we were on the summit. He even followed us on our way back.
The Pasochoa Volcano is not only famous for its natural beauty, but also for the stories and legends that surround it. The locals say that the volcano is home to protective spirits of nature. It is said that these spirits look after the animals and plants of the area, and that climbing to the top is a way of showing respect and gratitude to them.
The ascent of Pasochoa Volcano is so much more than a hike; it is a transformative experience that connects you deeply with nature and with yourself. Every step towards the summit is a lesson in patience, endurance and humility.
I recommend this trek to all those who seek not only a physical challenge, but also an opportunity to contemplate the majesty of nature in its purest form. The summit of Pasochoa awaits you with an experience that will undoubtedly remain engraved in your memory forever.
Are you interested in other hiking or trekking tours in Ecuador? We will be happy to plan the right excursion for you, let´s get in touch.
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