Tambopaxi

Overview

Description

Tambopaxi, at 11,250ft (3,750 m), is located within the Cotopaxi National Park. Its main attraction is Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It also has a view of another five volcanoes, highlands, lagoons, flora and fauna endemic to the Andean highlands (páramo).

One of Tambopaxi's main objectives is to encourage recreational activities within the setting of the paramo ecosystem. Our exclusive location enables both local and foreign tourists to enjoy short and easy strolls, all day hikes or even longer treks. Those who prefer to actually climb mountains may use Tambopaxi as a starting point for acclimitization tours or ascents of Rumiñahui (4,712m), Sincholagua (4893m), and Cotopaxi (5,897m). There are also extensive routes for mountain biking.

The use of rustic, indigenous materials, as well as a good insulation system in Tambopaxi, allow you to enjoy a warm, comfortable atmosphere after a day full of activities.

Rooms

We have capacity for 32 passengers in shared rooms; 12 passengers in four private rooms and soon there will be room for six more people in two private rooms.

Making a Difference

Number of employees: 12

Percentage of local employees: 70%

Tambopaxi is a hotel-refuge with lodging and restaurant services located within the Cotopaxi National Park. It is constructed with environment-friendly materials from the area. We have a formal agreement with the park to help with specific projects such as preparing brochures, setting up road signs, and helping park guards.

We have an environment-friendly program to dispose of solid waste by separating organic waste and plastics, and reusing and recycling plastic and glass jars.

We support the local communities by purchasing local produce, helping in community "mingas" (when people get together to work on projects for their community as volunteers), and hiring local guides to take tourists on horseback rides in the paramo. We also support Fundación Forja by selling their t-shirts and wearing them as part of our uniforms. Fundación Forja provides education to children from low-income families.

As a pilot project for the Rainforest Alliance, we are implementing best practices for sustainable tourism and we have the Ecuadorian SmartVoyager sustainable tourism certification.

Rates

Per night (50% discount for lodging is offered for children under 12 years

Restaurant:

• Breakfast - US $ 6.80 / pax.
• Lunch & dinner daily menu - US $ 11.00 / pax

Prices do not include: 12% vat + 10% service charge.

For more information about rates, please visit:

• www.tambopaxi.com/en/reservation/prices.html (available in English, French, German and Spanish).

Getting There

Nearest international airport: Quito (UIO)

Distance, by land, to the nearest airport: 75 km

It is possible to visit our facilities year round. In the rainy season, if you enter the park by the north entrance, a four-wheel drive is recommended. If you enter by the south entrance, you do not need a four-wheel drive.

Additional Information

Date This Information Was Provided

April 2008.

Photos courtesy of Tambopaxi, Ecuador, for SustainableTrip.org.