Pasochoa is a 4200 meter extinct volcano and really is only the rocky remains of the rim which blew out approximately 100,000 years ago. The valleys you see in the pictures are very fertile and we walked through fields mostly planting potatoes since at this altitude only certain crops can grow. The temperature is comfortable and the entire area is a very popular hiking region. The region is about a 30 minute drive from Quito. We left around 8:30 am from our hotel and drove up a dirt road towards the mountain trail at about 3300 meters. From here it is a pretty easy hike except that the altitude makes breathing difficult and there were a few moments when my head began to throb. It took us about 2 1/2 hours to reach the summit. We ate lunch at the top, (some really greasy cold cuts, cheese and bread). Most of the food we ate on the trip was definitely not what you would call exquisite. From our guides own mouth Ecuadorians like sweet sugary food, so unless you do also try to shop with the guide or you may be pushing some serious sugar highs from all the cookies and chocolates. Personally I don't digest those foods well at altitude.