Main Info
Discover the majestic Quilotoa lake and marvel at the magnificent Cotopaxi volcano
Our 2-day tour from Quito combines the highlights of the Andes. The beautiful range of native flora around the majestic Quilotoa lagoon and iconic Cotopaxi volcano.
On day one, visit Cotopaxi Volcano and climb up to the first refugee then, try to reach the glacier (5000meters over sea level) if your physical conditions allow you. Choose your accommodation according to your needs. On day two, ride towards Quilotoa Crater for an amazing Andes landscape, hike down up to the lake, try local dishes, and finally return back to Quito.
This all-inclusive program allows you to choose the hotel classes to fit your budget and comfort.
Hotel Categories:
- Tourist Class: Hosteria Papagayo.
- Standard Class: Hacienda Santa Ana.
- Comfort Class: Hacienda San Agustin de Callo.
Included:
- Private transportation.
- Lodging for 01 night.
- National Parks admission fees in Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
- 2 days Cotopaxi & Quilotoa tour
- Certified Spanish / English-speaking guide.
- Meals: Breakfast x 1, lunch x 2
- Personal assistance.
- Activities.
Not Include:
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips.
- Alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks
What to bring:
- Sunblock.
- Hike shoes.
- Raincoat.
- Appropriate clothes.
- Hat or cap.
- Camera.
Note: Itineraries are subject to change without notice due to volcano activity, last-minute weather conditions, and adjustment of Cotopaxi National Park policies
Itinerary
Download BrochureThe excursion starts at 8 am from your hotel in Quito. Meet your guide and board a vehicle heading south of Quito and towards Cotopaxi National Park. On the way, you will enjoy the beautiful views of the Andes mountain range and gorgeous natural scenery. Once you reach the National Park, you will visit the Interpretation Center and Limpiopungo lagoon. Take a short hike in the surrounding Limpiopungo valley before driving ever-higher into this sky-high region, stopping at the 15,800-foot (4830-meter) Padre Rivas Refuge. Depending on your physical condition, you will get the Glacier (5050-meter). Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant that offers typical Ecuadorian meals. Overnight in Cotopaxi.
Breakfast in the hotel. You will drive through the Avenue of the Volcanoes and pass through the Pujilí small town. You will also visit an indigenous local house from the “Paramos” to learn about their traditions and way of life. Enter their home, made of straw, and enjoy time interacting with them. After your visit, head to the town of Tigua, famous for its naive paintings. Continue up to the Quilotoa volcano, where you will be able to descend to the lake located inside the crater or just walk around the crater. You will also be able to enjoy an unforgettable experience by mule back riding or kayaking in the lake. Enjoy lunch and stand in one of the most beautiful landscapes in the highlands and traditional indigenous villages. Note: on Thursdays, Saquisilí Indigenous Market is optional.
