Altar Volcano Trek & Yellow Lagoon: 2-Day Tour from Guayaquil

Summary

From Guayaquil to Altar’s wild valleys and the yellow lagoon, a trek that lingers in your bones

You’ll start before dawn in Guayaquil, trekking through Collanes Valley’s wild grasses with a local guide who knows every turn. Camp under Andean skies near Altar Volcano, wake early for sunrise at Laguna Amarilla—and feel that cold mountain air settle into your memory long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

I woke up in Guayaquil with that kind of nervous energy you get before something big—maybe it was the 2:30am pickup or just knowing we were heading straight for El Altar. Our guide, Andrés, greeted us with a sleepy grin and hot coffee (lifesaver). The drive out of the city felt endless but the sun came up somewhere near Penipe, lighting up these misty green hills I hadn’t expected. At the ranger post, there was this quick rush—gear checks, everyone fumbling with sleeping bags and boots, Andrés joking about how many layers we’d regret later. I remember the way the air changed: sharper, colder, full of that earthy smell you only get in high places.

The first steps into Collanes Valley were rougher than I’d admit out loud—mud sucking at my boots, clouds hanging low enough to taste. There were moments where we just stopped and listened; nothing but wind and the distant sound of water moving somewhere unseen. Andrés pointed out wildflowers I’d never seen before (I forgot every name instantly), and one guy from our group tried to teach me “Kapak Urku” in Kichwa but I’m pretty sure I butchered it. Dinner at camp was simple but somehow perfect after hours of trekking—warm rice and beans, laughter echoing off the tents while fog rolled over everything.

The next morning started before sunrise—cold fingers trying to lace boots in the dark. The trail to Laguna Amarilla felt endless but then suddenly there it was: this yellow-green water under jagged peaks, almost unreal after all that gray. Our guide took photos for us but honestly I just wanted to stand there and breathe it in. On the way back down, my legs turned to jelly but I didn’t really care anymore. We made it back to Riobamba dusty and tired; by the time we hit Guayaquil again around 10pm, I was half asleep and still thinking about that valley light. If you’re looking for a day trip from Guayaquil that leaves you wrecked in a good way—this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Transfer and trek to Altar Volcano

• Guide picks you up at hotel 2:30 AM
• Travel to Penipe canton
• Register and receive instructions
• Begin trekking to Collanes Valley campsite
• Have dinner and rest at campsite

Day 2 — Trek to Yellow Lagoon and return

• Start early trek to Yellow Lagoon
• Take photos at Yellow Lagoon
• Return to campsite for breakfast
• Descend to Penipe and then Riobamba
• Travel back to Guayaquil arriving around 10 PM

Top questions

How difficult is the Altar Volcano trek?

This trek requires a high level of physical fitness due to altitude and muddy trails.

Is camping equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, tents and sleeping bags are included with your booking.

What time does pickup from Guayaquil happen?

Your guide will pick you up at 2:30am from your hotel lobby.

Are meals included during the trek?

Dinner on day one and breakfast on day two are provided at camp.

Is there a local guide on this tour?

Yes, a bilingual (Spanish/English) professional guide leads the trek.

Does this tour operate year-round?

The trek operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for Andean weather.

How long does it take to reach Riobamba from Guayaquil?

The drive takes several hours with arrival back in Guayaquil around 10pm on day two.

Can I store luggage during the trek?

Luggage storage isn’t specified; check directly with your operator for options.

What’s included

Your two-day journey includes hotel pickup from Guayaquil at dawn, round-trip transport through Riobamba and Penipe, entrance fees for Sangay park, all camping gear (tents and sleeping bags), satellite tracking plus travel insurance, hearty dinner and breakfast at camp—and guidance every step by a multilingual local expert before returning late evening on day two.