Cotopaxi National Reserve Hiking Day Trip

Quito , Ecuador

Cotopaxi National Reserve Hiking Day Trip

Active

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take an exciting hike into Cotopaxi Volcano National Park. Start the day driving through the Avenue of the Volcanoes deep into the spectacular and unique Andean Pármo. Once in the iconic National Park hike to the Limpiopungo Lake and afterwards take a hike to Cotopaxi First Refugee. The day-trip includes Lunch. A professional guide will accompany you.

Available options

2 travelers - Departs Daily

Price of the tour per person when there are 2 Travelers in the party - Departs Daily. Pickup included

Solo Traveler - Departs Daily

Price of the tour for a Solo Traveler (1 traveler) - Departs Daily. Pickup included

5 or+ Travelers

Price of the tour per person when there are 5 or more Travelers in the party - Departs Daily. Pickup included

3 Travelers - Departs Daily

Price of the tour per person when there are 3 Travelers in the party - Departs Daily. Pickup included

4 Travelers - DepartsDaily

Price of the tour per person when there are 4 Travelers in the party - Departs Daily. Pickup included

What's included

Bilingual professional guide

Lunch

Transport to/from Quito - Cotopaxi National Park

Hotel pickup and drop-off (hotels within the urban perimeter of Quito ONLY)

Hiking Trip

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

At 8am approx. we leave Quito by car driving south for approx. 1.5-hour through the Pan-American highway aka. Avenue of the Volcanoes. We'll then reach the park entrance of Cotopaxi National Park and the get ready to enjoy a fresh Andean-style breakfast.

Drive through pine forest and soon reach the Interpretation Center Mariscal and get to know the volcano and its unique fauna and flora.

Stop 2

Afterwards, and depending on the physical abilities of the group, drive towards Limpiopungo Lake located at 3.800 m or Rinconada camping zone, to enjoy a hike around this stunning environment to observe birds and the magnificent view of Cotopaxi Volcano

Afterwards, get ready yo climb up to the first refugee of the Volcano. The climb has a moderate level for beginners but we do reccommend you acclimatize first before this day trip.

A stop between activities will give us time to enjoy a well-deserved lunch to regain strength.

Say goodbye to the volcano and get in the van again to drive back. We'll be reaching Quito at around 4pm.

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.

What's not included

Additional food and drinks.

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

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.

Important notes

• Emergency ONLY phone number (local): (593) 992747880
• Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participantsNOTE: 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)

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.

DAY-TRIP INCLUDES:

Bilingual Professional Guide

Transportation from Quito and back

Guided Hike in Cotopaxi Volcano

Lunch (no a la carte)

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.