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Pasochoa
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Mountain
Pasochoa is an extinct stratovolcano located in the Ecuadorian Andes, approximately 15 kilometers south of Quito. Reaching an elevation of 4,200 meters above sea level, it is characterized by its highly eroded crater, which opened towards the west during a massive collapse thousands of years ago. Since 1982, the area has been protected as the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge, covering approximately 500 hectares of high-altitude Andean forest. This refuge is one of the few remaining primary forests in the inter-Andean valley, hosting over 110 bird species and diverse flora like Polylepis trees. The volcanic structure itself belongs to the older volcanic chain of the region, having ceased activity during the Pleistocene epoch. Today, it serves as a critical site for environmental education and trekking, offering a unique microclimate shielded by the volcanic walls.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Cascada Cóndor Machay · Cascada Vilatuña · El Murco
- Nearby: Saquisilí (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 132 | 142 | 169 | 168 | 117 | 63 | 43 | 33 | 41 | 80 | 92 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Pasochoa is best reached from Quito via the town of Amaguaña, from which an unpaved road leads to the entrance of the protected area.
Best season
The drier months from June to September are convenient for hiking, as visibility of the surrounding volcanoes is best and the trails are less muddy.
Terrain & paths
Hikers will find a variety of trails ranging from easy forest paths to demanding climbs through paramo grasslands toward the crater rim.
What to bring
Hiking boots with good grip, rain gear, layers for cool temperatures, and sun protection are necessary for the changeable conditions at this altitude.
Parking
Parking is available at the main entrance of the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge, where visitors are also required to register before starting their hike.
Safety
Visitors should take the altitude seriously and stay on marked trails; fog often rolls in during the afternoon, which can make orientation difficult.
Time needed
Shorter forest loop trails take 1 to 2 hours, while the hike to the volcano's summit typically requires 6 to 8 hours for the round trip.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation of 4,200 meters above sea level
- Wildlife refuge established in the year 1982
- Home to over 110 different bird species
- The crater is open toward the west
- Located 15 kilometers south of Quito
- Last volcanic activity occurred in the Pleistocene
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Pasochoa (7)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about Pasochoa?
In its extinct crater lies one of the last remnants of the original Andean mountain forest.
Is it suitable for a day trip from Quito?
Yes, its proximity to Quito makes it a well-suited one-day destination for hikers and nature lovers.
How high is Pasochoa?
The mountain has an elevation of 4,200 meters.
What animals can be observed there?
You can often see foxes and a variety of Andean birds like hummingbirds; pumas are rarer.
Is there a protected area there?
Yes, the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge protects the unique forest and features marked hiking trails.
Pasochoa: where is it located?
Pasochoa is located in Ecuador.
Pasochoa: what is there to see?
Highlights include Cascada Cóndor Machay, Cascada Vilatuña, El Murco.
Pasochoa: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Pasochoa: why is it worth visiting?
Pasochoa is an extinct stratovolcano located in the Ecuadorian Andes, approximately 15 kilometers south of Quito.
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