Cotopaxi & Quilotoa
From Quito
Moderate
150 USD p.p.
Overnight stay
departures every week:
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Saturday
These are group tours. We guarantee departures, even with one person.
Our itinerary
2-Day Volcanoes Tour
“Two days, two icons—Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, yours to explore.”
Read the full itinerary on our Cotopaxi Day Tour page.
Our Cotopaxi day tour begins with a scenic drive through the Avenue of Volcanoes and into Cotopaxi National Park, where we stop for stunning views.
We then hike from 4,600 to 4,800 meters, with the option to continue to the glacier at 5,000 meters for an unforgettable high-altitude experience.
After a break at the José Rivas Refuge, we offer a thrilling downhill biking adventure to Limpiopungo Lake, where wildlife and panoramic views await.
The day ends with an Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant, with dietary needs happily accommodated.
After the tour, instead of going back to Quito, you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation in the area.
Read the full itinerary on our Quilotoa Day Tour page.
Our Quilotoa day tour begins with a visit to a local market, followed by a cultural stop at a highland family home and the Tigua community.
We then hike down to the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, with options to rent a mule or simply admire the views from above.
At the lake, enjoy free time for kayaking or relaxing by the water before heading to Toachi Canyon for a scenic photo stop.
The day concludes with an Ecuadorian lunch at a local restaurant, with dietary needs gladly accommodated.
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150 USD per person for our group day tours.
165 USD for solo travelers.
Guaranteed departures every week on: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
The order of the tours depends on which day you start.
-
If you start on Tuesday or Thursday:
Day 1 – Quilotoa
Day 2 – Cotopaxi -
If you start on Wednesday or Saturday:
Day 1 – Cotopaxi
Day 2 – Quilotoa
Important:
Please be advised that the itinerary is subject to change without prior notice due to external factors and at the discretion of the guide.
Activity times are approximate and may be adjusted if necessary.
Although we recommend participants have moderate fitness for the hike’s physical demands, please note that our experienced guide will always be there to provide support.
Overnight stay at accommodation (private room) in Machachi.
Breakfast on the second day.
Bilingual guide Spanish / English.
Authorized tourist transport.
Menu-type meals (lunch on both days).
Bike and helmet for Cotopaxi tour.
Permits to enter protected areas.
Dinner.
Visit to local market on Tuesdays*
Quilotoa Entrance fee: $2 (cash payment).
Quilotoa Mule ride: $10 (optional, cash payment).
Quilotoa Kayaking: $4 (optional, cash payment).
Extra food, snacks and drinks.
Tips.
Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies.
Get ready for your day tour with this packing list:
Stay warm with gloves, scarf, and hat.
Shield your eyes with sunglasses.
Stay hydrated with water.
Wear sturdy shoes or boots.
Capture memories with your camera.
Stay dry with a waterproof jacket.
Keep your feet cozy with warm socks.
Protect your skin with sunscreen.
Pack snacks for energy.
And for a Cotopaxi passport stamp:
Bring your original passport.
150 USD per person for our group day tours.
165 USD for solo travelers.
Guaranteed departures every week on: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
The order of the tours depends on which day you start.
-
If you start on Tuesday or Thursday:
Day 1 – Quilotoa
Day 2 – Cotopaxi -
If you start on Wednesday or Saturday:
Day 1 – Cotopaxi
Day 2 – Quilotoa
Important:
Please be advised that the itinerary is subject to change without prior notice due to external factors and at the discretion of the guide.
Activity times are approximate and may be adjusted if necessary.
Although we recommend participants have moderate fitness for the hike’s physical demands, please note that our experienced guide will always be there to provide support.
Overnight stay at accommodation (private room) in Machachi.
Breakfast on the second day.
Bilingual guide Spanish / English.
Authorized tourist transport.
Menu-type meals (lunch on both days).
Bike and helmet for Cotopaxi tour.
Permits to enter protected areas.
Dinner.
Visit to local market on Tuesdays*
Quilotoa Entrance fee: $2 (cash payment).
Quilotoa Mule ride: $10 (optional, cash payment).
Quilotoa Kayaking: $4 (optional, cash payment).
Extra food, snacks and drinks.
Tips.
Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies.
Get ready for your day tour with this packing list:
Stay warm with gloves, scarf, and hat.
Shield your eyes with sunglasses.
Stay hydrated with water.
Wear sturdy shoes or boots.
Capture memories with your camera.
Stay dry with a waterproof jacket.
Keep your feet cozy with warm socks.
Protect your skin with sunscreen.
Pack snacks for energy.
And for a Cotopaxi passport stamp:
Bring your original passport.
Frequently Asked questions
Cotopaxi Volcano
Q: What time do the day tours to Cotopaxi volcano start?
Our day tours to Cotopaxi start early in the morning, with pick-up times from designated locations in Quito. Our first pick-up location is at 07:15 AM at Plaza Foch. Our second pick-up location is at 07:30 at San Blas.
Q: Are meals included in the Cotopaxi day tour?
Lunch is included in our Cotopaxi day tour. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to sample authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and refuel after your adventures.
Q: Is hiking Cotopaxi suitable for beginners?
We welcome everyone to join our tours, regardless of experience. Hiking Cotopaxi volcano can be challenging due to the high altitude and rugged terrain. We recommend that participants have a moderate level of fitness and are prepared for the physical demands of the hike. Our experienced guides will provide support and guidance throughout the excursion.
Q: What if the Cotopaxi hike is too physically exhausting for me?
If you find the hike too challenging, you can return to the parking lot where our tour bus will be waiting. The hiking trails are clearly marked, making it easy to descend. If you need assistance, our guide will be there to help. Once at the parking lot, you can rest and recover comfortably.
Q: What should I bring for the Cotopaxi day tour?
We recommend bringing appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, including layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Additionally, pack snacks, water, a camera, and any personal items you may need for the day.
Q: What safety measures are in place for the Cotopaxi day tour?
Your safety is our top priority. Our experienced guides are trained in first aid and mountain safety procedures. We also monitor weather conditions and volcanic activity to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Frequently Asked questions
Quilotoa Crater Lake
Q: What time do the day tours to Quilotoa Lagoon start?
Our day tours to Quilotoa start early in the morning, with pick-up times from designated locations in Quito. Our first pick-up location is at 07:15 AM at Plaza Foch. Our second pick-up location is at 07:30 at San Blas.
Q: Are meals included in the Quilotoa day tour?
Lunch is included in our Quilotoa day tour. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to sample authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and refuel after your adventures.
Q: Is the hike to Quilotoa Crater Lake difficult?
The hike to the lake is moderately challenging, taking about two hours round-trip. The descent is easier, while the ascent can be strenuous. For those who prefer a more leisurely option, mules are available for rent.
Q: Can children participate in the Quilotoa Day Tour?
Yes, children can participate. However, please consider their ability to hike and the altitude of Quilotoa Crater Lake. Mules can also be rented for children if needed.
Q: What should I bring for the Quilotoa day tour?
We recommend bringing appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, including layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Additionally, pack snacks, water, a camera, and any personal items you may need for the day.
Q: Is there a restroom available during the tour?
Yes, restrooms are available at various stops throughout the tour, including the local markets and near Quilotoa Crater Lake. Ask your guide about the nearest option for you.
Cotopaxi Day Tour
From Quito
group tour
Trek to breathtaking heights and ride down volcanic slopes for the ultimate adventure.
Departures
Wed - Fri - Sat - Sun
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Hike & bike
Physical level
Adventure level
per person
Quilotoa Day Tour
From Quito
group tour
Visit a stunning turquoise lake, meet locals, and enjoy amazing views of the Andes.
Departures
Tue - Thu - Sun
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Hike & views
Physical level
Adventure level
per person
Mindo Day Tour
From Quito
group tour
Explore waterfalls, spot colorful birds, zipline and enjoy the beauty of nature in Mindo.
Departures
Fri
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Nature & wildlife
Physical level
Adventure level
per person
Otavalo Day Tour
From Quito
group tour
Discover Ecuador’s most famous market, meet locals, and find handmade souvenirs.
Departures
Tue - Sat
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Market & equator
Physical level
Adventure level
per person
Cotopaxi Horseback Day Tour
From Quito
group tour
Ride through stunning Andean landscapes with amazing views of Cotopaxi Volcano.
Departures
Wed - Fri - Sat - Sun
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Horseback & views
Physical level
Adventure level
per person
2-Day Cotopaxi & Quilotoa
From Quito
group tour
Explore two of Ecuador’s most stunning places and stay overnight in the Andes.
Departures
Tue - Wed - Thu - Sat
Duration
2 days
Highlights
Cotopaxi & Quilotoa
Physical level
Adventure level
per person
