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Discover Ecuador, One Day at a Time!

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$55 per person | From Quito

Cotopaxi & Quilotoa

2-day volcanoes
Guaranteed departures
  • ļ³Tuesday
  • ļ³Wednesday
  • ļ³Thursday
  • ļ³Saturday

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Our itinerary

Cotopaxi Day Tour

ļ«

AVG. TEMPERATURE
5Ā°C / 41Ā°F

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TOUR RATING
4.8 / 5

ļ…Ž

AVG. ELEVATION
4,800 meters / 15,750 feet

ļ›¬

DIFFICULTY
Moderate

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Andes Mountain Drive

There are two pick up points for the Cotopaxi day tour:
07:15 AM from Plaza Foch OR 07:30 AM from Plaza San Blas.

You can select your preferred pick-up and drop-off point during the booking process.

We begin our journey with a scenic drive through the mountains, stopping in Machachi at an elevation of 2,945 meters (9,662 feet) to take stunning photos of Ecuadorā€™s breathtaking landscapes.

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Hiking Cotopaxi Volcano

We arrive at the Cotopaxi parking lot, situated at an impressive altitude of 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). Prepare for an awe-inspiring hike, ascending to the refuge at 4,800 meters (15,750 feet), and enjoy panoramic views of the Andes.

For those interested, thereā€™s an option to trek to the glacier at 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) and take in the sights from one of the worldā€™s highest active volcanoes.

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Downhill Biking Adventure

Ready for some adrenaline? Ride a bike in the Cotopaxi Volcano! You will have the opportunity to ride a mountain bike downhill from Las Chuquiraguas to the Limpiopungo lagoon.

This activity is suitable for everyone; however, if you donā€™t feel confident, you can stay on the bus, and we will follow the bike group to our next highlight of the day. You can stop the biking activity at any time.

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Limpiopungo Lake Viewpoint

We will stop at the Limpiopungo Lake viewpoint to take photos and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

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Lunch & Return to Quito

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, tasting Ecuadorian flavors and recharging your energy.

Conclude your Cotopaxi day tour with a comfortable transfer back. If you prefer, we can drop you off along the way; otherwise, we'll return to Quito, arriving around 18:30 PM. Reflect on the dayā€™s memorable experiences, from hiking to downhill biking, all set in the beautiful Cotopaxi National Park.

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Our itinerary

Quilotoa Day Tour

ļ«

AVG. TEMPERATURE
12Ā°C / 54Ā°F

ļ’¾

TOUR RATING
4.9 / 5

ļ…Ž

AVG. ELEVATION
3,800 meters / 12,467 feet

ļ›¬

DIFFICULTY
Moderate

1
Visit Local, Indigenous Market

There are two pick up points for the Quilotoa day tour:
07:15 AM from Plaza Foch OR 07:30 AM from Plaza San Blas.

You can select your preferred pick-up and drop-off point during the booking process.

Start your tour with a visit to a busy local, indigenous market. Experience local Ecuadorian life as we explore stalls filled with fresh produce and handcrafted goods. You have a chance to buy snacks for the rest of the day. Continuing on, we will visit a local family in their highland hut, and make an extra stop at the community of Tigua.

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Hike Quilotoa Crater Lake

After a scenic drive through charming Andean villages, we arrive at the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake. Weā€™ll then hike down to the turquoise waters of the lake, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. You can choose to hike, rent a mule for an easier descent or simply stay and enjoy the views.

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Optional Activities at Quilotoa

Enjoy some free time at Laguna Quilotoa for various activities. You can go kayaking on the calm waters or relax by the lakeside, taking in the amazing scenery.

The Quilotoa Day Tour offers optional activities like kayaking and mule riding, making sure you have a memorable and customizable experience.

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Lunch & Visit Toachi Canyon

We will finish with a visit to the impressive Toachi Canyon. Take in this geological wonder and enjoy the dramatic landscapes.

This is followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, tasting Ecuadorian flavors and recharging your energy.

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Return to Quito

Conclude your Quilotoa day tour with a comfortable transfer back. If you prefer, we can drop you off along the way; otherwise, we'll return to Quito, arriving around 18:30 PM.

Reflect on the dayā€™s amazing experiences and the unforgettable beauty of Ecuador as you return to the city, wrapping up a truly enriching and memorable day.

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Overnight Stay

For your overnight stay, you’ll have a private room at either Casa Sakiwa or Casa del MontaƱero. Please note that dinner is not included, but breakfast will be provided on the second day. In the morning, you’ll be picked up between 08:15 AM – 08:30 AM directly from your accommodation to begin the next tour.

150 USD per person for our shared tour.

165 USD for solo travelers.

Guaranteed departures every week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday.

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 hikeā€™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.

Quilotoa Entrance fee: $2 (cash payment).

Quilotoa Mule ride: $10 (optional, cash payment).

Quilotoa Kayaking: $4 (optional, cash payment).

Extra food and drinks.

Tips.

Snacks.

Taxes Ecuadorian tourist 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 shared tour.

165 USD for solo travelers.

Guaranteed departures every week on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday.

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 hikeā€™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.

Quilotoa Entrance fee: $2 (cash payment).

Quilotoa Mule ride: $10 (optional, cash payment).

Quilotoa Kayaking: $4 (optional, cash payment).

Extra food and drinks.

Tips.

Snacks.

Taxes Ecuadorian tourist 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.

Day Tours from Quito