Cotopaxi Volcano: Biking Small Group Full Day Tour

Quito , Ecuador

Cotopaxi Volcano: Biking Small Group Full Day Tour

Active

(17 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

After picking you up at the Meeting point (Foch Plaza) at 8:00 am, you will be driven south down the Pan-American Highway. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to have majestic views of the Avenue of Volcanos, part of the central Ecuadorian Andes!

Our ride will take place in Cotopaxi National Park named after one of the highest active volcanoes on earth, which at just over nineteen thousand feet, is a sight to behold and one of the most stunning in Ecuador.

You will bike next to the volcano’s base at 13.000 feet, on dirt roads and single tracks surrounded by an other-worldly landscape dotted with rocks strew by the volcano during its last major eruption. Depending on your luck in this area, you might see wild animals such as deer, alpacas, lamas, bulls, and horses. The ride is about fifteen miles and mostly on flat terrain.

To finish our day, you will have a picnic with a lovely view of incredible Inca ruins and then return to Quito.

Available options

Shared Day Tour

What's included

Gear: Mountain bike & helmet

Meals as described in itinerary (1x lunch)

Transportation from and to Quito’s meeting point.

24/7 assistance in Dutch, English and Spanish

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After picking you up at the Meeting point (Foch Plaza) at 8:00 am, you will drive south down the Pan-American Highway. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to have majestic views of the Avenue of Volcanos, part of the central Ecuadorian Andes!

Our ride will take place in Cotopaxi National Park named after one of the highest active volcanoes on earth, which at just over nineteen thousand feet, is a sight to behold and one of the most stunning in Ecuador.

You will bike next to the volcano’s base at 13.000 feet, on dirt roads and single tracks surrounded by an other-worldly landscape dotted with rocks strew by the volcano during its last major eruption. Depending on your luck in this area, you might see wild animals such as deer, alpacas, lamas, bulls, and horses. The ride is about fifteen miles and mostly on flat terrain.

To finish our day, you will have a picnic with a lovely view of incredible Inca ruins and then return to Quito.

What's not included

Fees for museums or natural reserves.

Additional food or beverages.

Optional tips for guides and drivers.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

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

Important things to bring: warm and waterproof clothing, rain jacket, gloves, a big bottle of water, sun block SPF 50-100, a cap or hut, a scarf or buff, sunglasses and passport.

Keep in mind that climate at 4000 meters can change suddenly from sunny to cold with stormy winds and wet snow.

It is important that you will have current travel insurance including personal medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have

The operator reserves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather, National Park regulations or notifications and unpredictable circumstances

In order to process your reservation please help us with all this information:

Arrival and departure information of international flights

Whatsapp phone number (in case you use Whatsapp and would like us to contact you that during your stay via Whatsapp)

Food restrictions

Medical restrictions

Please take into consideration that lunch will be served at around 03:00 PM, so it is recommended to bring some extra food.

Please note: For the use of bicycles, you will be kindly asked to sign a document that you accept responsibility of the good use of the bicycle and you will be asked to let an identity document that will be given back after the tour. Thank you for your comprehension

Necessary equipment: Please bring with you the following items: warm clothing (including a change of clothes) gloves, scarf, hat, sunglasses, long socks, cotton pants and waterproof jacket. Water. Hiking shoes/boots. Camera. Snacks. Sun cream

In order to process your reservation please help us with all this information: Meeting point In La Mariscal or In the Historical centre (old town)

Inform yourself about food safety when traveling to tropical countries. Take the necessary precaution to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands before eating, don’t eat ‘street food’, only eat peeled fruits, etc.).

This tour operates with a minimum of 4 guests. If you are a solo traveler, please contact us to check availability and additional details.

Meeting point

Leave from Plaza Foch in Quito at 07:00.

Address: the bus leaves at 07:00 AM from the corner of Juan Leon Mera and Mariscal Foch (in front of the Magic Bean restaurant). Please be there at 06:50 AM.

*Please let us know upon confirmation the desired pick-up location

Important notes

You receive from the operator an updated travel voucher based on your travel details, flights and availabilities. You will receive this travel voucher 2 weeks before departure via the Viator chat. If you haven’t received this please send us a message

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.