Ecuador’s páramo invites guests to slow down

Many Ecuador itineraries include Cotopaxi as a one-night stop between Quito and the Andes. However, spending two nights allows travelers to truly experience the landscapes, culture and wildlife of the Andean páramo.

Surrounded by Ecuador’s stunning páramo, Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge (aka ‘Chilca’) an ideal escape for couples, families, and small groups. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast with volcano views or a starlit evening by the fireplace, every moment at the lodge is unforgettable. Guests are invited to slow down, tune in, and enjoy an authentic mountain lodge experience. Chilcabamba blends comfort and rustic charm in a warm and welcoming setting. Located at 3,480 meters above sea level, the lodge is just six kilometers from Cotopaxi National Park and less than two hours from Quito.

On a one-night stay at the Tropic Collection’s Chilcabamba Mountain Lodge, guests can have a quick visit to Cotopaxi NP to see some of its beautiful landscapes, mammal and avian wildlife. They might also be able to fit in a horseback riding experience with Chilca’s local chagras, learning a bit about Andean cowboy culture.

With two or more nights, a whole world opens up! Travelers have more time in the park, giving them the chance to explore different areas and perhaps enjoy one of Chilca’s much-loved luxury picnics. They will have enough time to observe hummingbirds and other páramo birds. Guests can also enjoy a rodeo with the chagras, along with a milking experience with Chilca’s neighbors, immersing in the local mountain culture. They will also have the chance to hike in the Pita River Canyon to see its beautiful waterfalls and learn about its importance to the people of Quito.

Staying more than one night comes with another bonus – time to relax! The lodge has incredible views of the surrounding mountains and Cotopaxi itself, cozy spaces to retreat to with a book or to gaze at the mountain landscapes, evenings by the fire and even s’mores outdoors. No one wants to rush when there is so much beauty to take in.

For a richer experience in Cotopaxi, Tropic always recommends a minimum two-night stay at Chilcabamba. Two or more nights allows travelers to truly experience the Cotopaxi highlands instead of simply passing through.