Cotopaxi Volcano from Quito - Private Tours
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Cotopaxi Volcano from Quito - Private Tours

Active
(8 reviews)
7h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano in the Andes Mountains, we will enjoy the view since we depart from Quito, it is 2 hours far. Cotopaxi Volcano is the second highest summit in Ecuador, reaching a height of 5,897 m (19,347 ft). It is one of the world's highest volcanoes.

Also we can enjoy downhill in roll skates or bike in the National Park.

Available options

Cotopaxi Volcano from Quito - Private Tours

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Pick up and drop off
Licensed Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

A capital city high in the Andes, Quito is dramatically situated, squeezed between mountain peaks whose greenery is concealed by the afternoon mist. Modern apartment buildings and modest concrete homes creep partway up the slopes, and busy commercial thoroughfares lined with shops and choked with traffic turn into peaceful neighborhoods on Sundays. Warm and relaxed, traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture – overflowing market stands, shamanistic healers, fourth-generation hatmakers – mixes with a vibrant and sophisticated culinary and nightlife scene.
LONELY PLANET..

2

When you stop in front of this mountain, to your right is the north, your left is the south, Quito is like 64km long and 4 km inch, starting from this active volcano.

3

Place people use to rest, have a meal. Quechua name Tambo.
this is a small one, called Tambillo

4
Stop 4

We are going to look some important neighborhoods of Quito, while we are leaving the city, also the contrast between the north and south part of the city, then we can se how Cordillera de Los Andes divide in two lines, and the most important mountains and snow crops are going to appear on the road, to show us and amazing view .
for example Pichincha, Atacazo, Corazon, Ilinizas, Cayambe , Antisana, Sincholagua, Rumiñahui and Cotopaxi .
If you didnt have breakfast, we can stop for a meal, it can be in Tambillo or Machachi. Continue our trip the mountains become closer and we are going to have some stops for your pictures YEIH..
Continue to Cotopaxi province we arribe to National Park then we have a registration and ask for a natural guide to get into the park and continue our visit to LImpiopungo Lagoon and a walk to the snow crop, while crossing the road we can see horses, birds and wild land animals. If we are lookie we can see a Condor. Ending our tour to Cotopaxi National Park, we can have a lunch in El Rondador, to come back to Quito.

Cotopaxi Volcano, is the second highest summit in Ecuador

5
Stop 5

Inside Cotopaxi National Park, this incredible lagoon at the front of Rumiñahui mountain (quechua name, means face of rock) and Sincholagua makes this a land of volcanos.

What's not included

Tips
Use of bicycle
natural guide
Meals
The SIB, the admission to show the control and forest rangers, we are coming into the area.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  • • Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air
  • Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park
50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest
80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs
65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

  • Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
  • Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
  • Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-60
1
Childs
Age 11-17
0
Infants
Age 1-10
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 4
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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