Guagua - Quichua for baby - is one of the three major peaks that make up the Pichincha massif. It is located 20 km West of Quito. It is normally snow free but an occasional high-altitude storm will cover the mountain with a layer of snow.
In the past it was possible to descend into the crater of the volcano. You could watch the fumaroles and superheated water rising from its vents. However just a couple of years ago Pichincha suddenly became active again and covered Quito temporarily with a layer of ash. At present the Pichincha crater continues spewing and venting.

Guagua Pichincha is a good second acclimatisation hike. We drive up to 4.000 m / 13,120 ft to a small valley from where we start the hike to the summit. It is quite an arduous walk and normally takes three hours up and one hour down.
On a clear day you have a beautiful view of the so-called "Avenue of the Volcanoes", including Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Cayambe and Antisana.