The adventure starts in Quito with a bus ride to the station of Tambillo, where the "Chiva Express", a colorful one coach train, like a bus on tracks, is ready to depart. A highlights of the trip is to 'ride the roof' with a panoramic view of the stunning Andean region of Ecuador. You will leisurely enjoy the ever-changing scenery as the "Chiva Express" advances along the ancient tracks. A snack is served at the Station of Machachi. Disembark at El Boliche and continue by bus to the Cotopaxi National Park. Surrounding Cotopaxi Volcano, this is an ecological sanctuary of 36,000 hectares (88,920 acres), especially attractive for nature lovers, with the treeless vegetation of the Andean moorlands or paramo. From the entrance to the park it’s up a dirt road for approximately one hour. Upon arrival to the park there is an introductory briefing about the habitat of the Andean paramo or moorlands, its flora and fauna in the small Interpretation Center. Continue onto Limpiopungo Lagoon to observe a variety of birds and occasionally wild horses. On clear days, the Cotopaxi Volcano is an awesome backdrop. A short walk around the lagoon allows the observation of the Andean flora. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant of the area and return to Quito by bus in the afternoon.