2-Day Tour of Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon with hotel
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2-Day Tour of Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon with hotel

Active
(3 reviews)
2d
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a 2-day trip through the Avenue of the Volcanoes towards two of the most important landmarks in the Ecuadorian Sierra: Cotapaxi and Quilotoa. On day one, visit Cotopaxi Volcano and climb up to the first refugee, take an optional bike ride afterwards. Lodge in the comfy Chuquiragua lodge and get ready for your next adventure. On day two, ride towards Quilotoa Crater Lagoon for an amazing hike. Visit Tigua artisan’s town to end you adventure before returning back to Quito.      

Available options

2-Day Tour of Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon with hotel

What's included

English speaking guide
Lunch
Accommodation in a Double Room in Hotel Casa Sakiwa in Machachi
Breakfast
Bike & helmet for Cotopaxi
Transport to/from Quito
Visits according with the itineraries

What's not included

Entry fee to Quilotoa Lagoon USD $2 per person
Hotel pickup and drop-off (meeting point is Barrio Mariscal - See notes)
Additional food and drinks.
Items/ activities not mentioned on the itinerary
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0

Important information

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
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather or events beyond our control (force mejeure) no refunds are applicable.
Important: we recommend you to bring warm clothes (layers), eaterproof jacket, gloves, sunscreen, hat, hiking shoes, extra pair of socks, extra pants, sunglasses, sun cream and walking stick, water bottle
The tour is not private. Travelers will share services with a group. Maximum people per tour 12
NOTE: This is a sample itinerary. Please keep in mind that due to the nature of this tour and the given that Cotopaxi is an active volcano, this itinerary may vary.

Meeting point

Meeting point: Mariscal Foch and Juan Leon Mera. at 06h50 am.
In the center of Quito: Plaza San Blas: Caldas st and Pichincha.

Important notes

Local supplier telephone number: +845 345 3204
• Emergency ONLY phone number (local): (593) 992747880

NOTE (IMPORTANT): 

The following info from each traveler is a compulsory requirement in order to be included in the supplier’s insurance.  Please provide this information as soon as possible (before travel date). 

Names (as they appear on the passport):

Passport Number: 

Date of Birth: 

Emergency Phone Number:
* If travelers fail to provide this information two days prior to date of travel, the health insurance cannot NOT be applied.

NOTE (travel insurance age restriction): Travel insurance for this tour is applicable to travelers up to 69 years old ONLY. We encourage travelers of more the 69 years to hire private travel insurance, as unfortunately, they will not be covered with ours.  

NOTE 2: This day tour is subject to availability and last minute changes due to forces beyond our control (force majeure) - no refunds will be applicable in this case. This tour is not private - travelers will share the services with a group of fellow travelers (max 12 per group)

DAY-TRIP INCLUDES:

Bilingual Professional Guide

Transportation from Quito and back (at meeting point in Barrio Mariscal)

Guided Hike and Bike ride in Cotopaxi Voclano Prak (Basic biking equipment: Bike, helmet)

Breakfast (Day 2) and Lunch (Day 1 and 2)

NOT INCLUDED

Other Meals

Cost of extra activities not listed in the itinerary

Tips & gratuities (optional)

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 10-85
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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