About

Located 2 hours from Quito, Punanti Mountain Refuge offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and immensity of the Ecuadorian Andes. A bus to Cayambe and to the community of La Chimba, followed by a short jeep ride or hike will lead you to the remote (yet accessible), cosy and comfortable Swiss-run mountain cabins and dorms. Situated at 3600 meters, it is nestled into the foot of the breathtaking Cayambe volcano.

After a delicious breakfast prepared with homemade bread & jam, eggs, fruits salad – and most importantly, a lot of love – now is the time to embark on one of the many outdoor activities facilitated by Antoine and his team of local guides and volunteers.

Why not starting with a short 1h hike to get used to the altitude and discover the natural thermal waters a little higher up? Or maybe you want to go for a day long hike, exploring the wilderness of this unique ecosystem, surrounded by majestic condors.

Feeling like summiting a 5700m+ Andean mountain? Antoine will guide you for a 3 days camping adventure for acclimatization purposes, before a local guide will lead you for the non-technical Cayambe 2 days ascension after a rest day.

Rock climbing is also a favorite: climbing routes are there for all levels, from beginners to more advanced climbers. The material is available for rent; you do not need to worry about anything! If you are lucky, you might even spot curious – and inoffensive – bears watching your skills.

And now, time to rest! Enjoy the comforting fire warming up the refuge, playing cards or board games, reading your book with a tea or a crafted beer after a relaxing session in the Jacuzzi. To end the day, share altogether, in a family like atmosphere with guests and staff, a delicious and generous meal prepared by Antoine and his local friends, Norma and Ercilia.

Te esperamos at Punanti Mountain Refuge!

Punanti Mountain Refuge Policy and Condition:

Cancellation Policy: 1 day before arrival. In case of a late cancellation or No Show, you will be charged the first night of your stay.

Payment upon arrival by cash only
Taxes included
Breakfast included

Booking details regarding age
- (0-3) for free
- (4-11) half price
- (12-99) normal price

Pet policy
- Please communicate with me beforehand

Quiet hours
10 PM - 6 AM

Smoking can be done outside

Security and valuables
- Every dorm bed is provided with a door that can be locked
- Please bring your own lock

Facility use policy
- Kitchen is for personnel only
- Exceptions can be made to store food in the fridge, please communicate beforehand

Accessibility information
- Unfortunately not accessible yet

House Rules

Check In

10:00 - 13:00

Check Out

until 12:00

  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Breakfast
  • Free Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Airport Transfers
  • Luggage Storage
  • 24 Hour Reception
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Reviews

9.1Superb(5)
  • Value for Money
    9.0
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    8.0
  • Cleanliness
    10.0
  • Staff
    9.0
  • Location
    9.0
  • Facilities
    9.0
Stayed in May 2026
10
A
Anonymous
Female, 25-30, England
Best hostel I’ve ever stayed in, you will extend your stay!!! So nice to hike independently and have the dogs for company! Thanks to all the lovely staff ❤️
Stayed in Mar 2025
10
A
Andrew
Male, 18-24, USA
Such an incredible stay ! Antoine and the rest of the staff are very perseonable and took every measure to make us feel at home in the hostal. Cayambe and the surrounding hikes and activities are Incredible and they shouldn’t be as under the radar to visit as it seems to be. Great food and environment, will most definitely stay again.
Stayed in May 2024
10
A
Anonymous
Male, 31-40, USA
The place is a hostal but has private rooms as well. It’s owned a run by a couple so the place has a home feeling. It’s a good place to go hiking, horseback riding, or simply unplug from the real world. Loves it and will come back again.
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Location

Via las termas, La Chimba, Otavalo, Ecuador
29.6km from city centre