1-Day Andes Views

$80 per person

A 12-hour full day group tour from Quito to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa:

- Entrance to Cotopaxi National Park
- Visit to Cotopaxi Park Museum
- Limpiopungo Lake Viewpoint
- Meet Tigua painters
- Quilotoa Crater Lake viewpoint
- Lunch included

Monday

       
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Itinerary

“Ecuador’s top highlights: Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, all in one day.”

Every Monday
This is a group tour. We guarantee departures, even with one person.

Tour Essentials

Tour languages: English & Spanish.

Duration: approx. 12 hours.

Average temperature: 6–16°C (43–61°F)
Expect weather with sun, clouds, wind, and sometimes light rain. Mountain weather can change quickly.

Pick Up in Quito

Your day tour begins with pick-up from the two main areas in Quito. Please look for our white tour bus at these locations:

07:00 AM – Plaza Foch in front of Café Juan Valdez.
07:15 AM – Plaza San Blas from Café Zular.

Note: We recommend taking a taxi to these locations. Your guide will be there to check you in and introduce the group. Pick-ups along the way (e.g., Machachi) available on request.

Machachi and Park Entrance

We drive south from Quito along the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes, passing through Machachi. Before entering the national park, we stop at a local restaurant where you can buy breakfast, water, or snacks (not included).

Interpretation Center

We visit the Cotopaxi National Park Interpretation Center, also known as the Park Museum. It provides information about the park, photos and its natural environment. It’s a 30 minutes visit.

After the visit, we start our drive inside Cotopaxi National Park.

Limpiopungo Lake Viewpoint

We stop at Limpiopungo Lake, located at 3,800 meters, to enjoy the quiet nature and take photos of the volcano reflected in the water. Keep an eye out for the wild horses and Andean birds.

Transfer & Tigua Painters

We will leave Cotopaxi National Park and continue our journey toward Quilotoa Lake. Along the route, local Tigua painters will board the bus to share their culture and showcase their artwork. These paintings are beautiful pieces of art. Bringing cash is recommended in case you would like to buy one.

Quilotoa Crater Lake

Next, we arrive at the stunning Quilotoa crater. From the viewpoint, you can look down into the bright turquoise water of the volcanic lake. You will have time to enjoy the views and take photos.

Ecuadorian Lunch

We stop for an Ecuadorian lunch (included) with a starter, main course, and a drink. Please let us know about dietary restrictions in your booking.

Return to Quito

After lunch, we head back to Quito, arriving between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM at our original meeting points.

Heading South: If you are going to another destination, let our guide know. We can drop you off at a public transport point or arrange a private transfer.

Note
Our itinerary may change based on the weather or other factors. Your guide will always make the best decision for the group. All times are approximate and may be adjusted during the day.

Pricing

1-Day Andes Views

$80 per person

Every Monday

ZIncluded

- Permit to enter Cotopaxi National Park
- Entrance to Cotopaxi interpretation center
- Certified & bilingual national guide
- Authorized tourist transport
- Lunch (menu-type meal)

Excluded

- Entrance fee to Quilotoa: $3 (cash payment)
- Extra food, snacks and drinks
- Tips
- Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies

What to Pack

For this tour wear comfortable clothing, shoes and be ready for weather conditions. Since we’ll be in the Andes, we recommend bringing:

- Gloves, scarf, and a hat
- A waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes and warm socks
- Water and snacks for energy

This list is a recommendation for extra comfort, it’s not required.

Good to Know

- This tour is always in English and Spanish
- Our guide is always there to support you
- Wear layers to stay ready for changing weather
- The guide may adjust the itinerary and schedule if necessary

Frequently Asked questions

Cotopaxi & Quilotoa

Q: How much hiking is involved?

Since this is a hop-on hop-off style tour, minimal hiking will be done. We will enjoy multiple destinations to enjoy views and take photos.

Q: Is this a group tour?

Yes, this is a group tour shared with other travelers. However, we also offer this tour privately if you prefer a personal guide and vehicle with flexible timing and stops.

Q: What is the altitude like?

At Cotopaxi National Park, we reach up to 3,600 meters (11,800 ft), while Quilotoa sits at around 3,900 meters (12,800 ft). You may feel the effects of high altitude, so walk slowly, stay hydrated, and rest if needed.

Q: Do I need to be very fit?

No, this itinerary is suitable for most travelers since we do not go hiking. This way, clients who have trouble walking, or simply prefer not to, can still enjoy the best of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa comfortably.

Q: Will I see both Cotopaxi and Quilotoa clearly?

Weather in the Andes is unpredictable. We aim to visit both in the best possible conditions, but views can be affected by clouds. Your guide may adjust the itinerary to maximize visibility.

Q: Are restroom stops available?

Yes, we make regular stops, including at viewpoints, restaurants, and visitor centers where restrooms are available. Simply ask your guide and he will show you to the nearest option.