Cotopaxi Day Tour
From Quito
Moderate
55 USD p.p.
4,800m / 15,750ft
departures every week:
- Wednesday
- Friday
- Saturday
- Sunday
This is a group tour. We guarantee departures, even with one person.
itinerary
Cotopaxi Day Tour
“In 1872, Reiss and Escobar made history—today, you’ll walk the same volcano.”
We will drive south through Ecuador, along the so-called Avenue of Volcanoes. We will pass the town of Machachi and enter Cotopaxi National Park, where we will stop at a viewpoint for photos.
We arrive at the Cotopaxi parking area, located at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). From here, we hike up to the refuge at 4,800 meters (15,750 feet) and enjoy wide views of the Andes mountains.
If you want and if weather conditions allow, you can continue hiking to the glacier at 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). This is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world!
We’ll stop here for about 30 minutes. You can warm up with a delicious hot chocolate (our favorite!) or grab a small snack. Enjoy the mountain views, and as a memorabilia, you can get a souvenir stamp in your passport.
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 don’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.
We stop at Limpiopungo Lake to take photos and enjoy the quiet nature. The lake is at 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) and offers great views of Cotopaxi Volcano. You might see wild horses and birds that live in the highlands.
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55 USD per person for our group day tour.
Guaranteed departures every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
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.
Bilingual guide Spanish / English.
Authorized tourist transport.
Menu-type meal (lunch).
Bike and helmet.
Permits to enter protected areas.
Extra food and drinks.
Tips.
Snacks.
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.
55 USD per person for our group day tour.
Guaranteed departures every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
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.
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.
Certified & bilingual guide – Spanish / English.
Authorized tourist transport.
Menu-type meal (lunch).
Bike and helmet.
Permits to enter protected areas.
Extra food and drinks.
Tips.
Snacks.
Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies.
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.
Q: How can I prepare for the Cotopaxi day tour?
To make the most of your Cotopaxi adventure, preparation is key.
1. Acclimatize to the Altitude
Cotopaxi’s high altitude can take a toll on your body if you’re not prepared. Spend at least a day or two in Quito (which is already at 2,850 meters/9,350 feet) to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and take it easy to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
2. Dress in Layers
The weather in Cotopaxi can change rapidly, so it’s essential to dress appropriately. Bring:
- A waterproof jacket and pants
- A thermal base layer
- A fleece or warm sweater
- Gloves and a hat
3. Pack the Essentials
Here’s a checklist of what to bring:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (the sun is intense at high altitudes)
- A reusable water bottle
- Snacks for extra energy
- A small daypack
4. Stay Hydrated and Energized
Drink water regularly throughout the day and snack on high-energy foods like nuts, dried fruits, or energy bars during the hike.
Q: Why Choose a Guided Tour?
While it’s possible to visit Cotopaxi on your own, a guided tour offers several advantages:
- Safety: Experienced guides know the terrain and how to handle altitude-related issues.
- Convenience: Transportation, permits, and meals are usually included.
- Insight: Learn about Cotopaxi’s history, geology, and ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
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