Quito , Ecuador

Cotopaxi bike tour

Active

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Cotopaxi Volcano, arguably one of Ecuador's most impressive volcanoes, is also the most visited. The surrounding protected area offers a wide range of tourist options for visitors, including biking, horseback riding, hiking and even ascents to the summit of the volcano.

Located in the majestic Ecuadorian Andes, near the city of Latacunga in the province of Cotopaxi, and only about 50 km from Quito, this volcano rises to an imposing height of 5897 meters above sea level, making it the second highest volcano in Ecuador.

This exciting program is designed so that even children as young as 5 years old can participate, always under the supervision of their parents.

For the excursion, it is advisable to bring warm and comfortable clothing, including a windbreaker to protect you from the cold mountain wind and gloves to keep your hands warm.

Available options

Cotopaxi bike tour

What's included

Bicycle and helmet

Transportation

Bilingual Guide

Permition to enter protected areas

Lunch (vegetarian option, give notice)

Detailed itinerary

At a distance of one hour and thirty minutes south of Quito, along the Panamerican Highway, crossing part of the Andes Mountains and the town of Machachi, is a place renowned for its livestock and agricultural activity on the slopes of Pasochoa and Rumiñahui to the right, and Cerro Corazón to the left, with the majestic Ilinizas on the horizon. Here, we will make our first technical stop at an altitude of 2945 meters (9662.07 feet) to allow for acclimatization, enjoy breakfast and take photographs.

Stop 2

During our trip to Cotopaxi National Park, we will enter the majestic Avenue of the Volcanoes. Once inside the national park, you will have the opportunity to purchase handicrafts made by indigenous communities. During the trip to the volcano, we will make technical stops to acclimatize properly. We will arrive at the parking area and from there we will hike to the refuge, continuing up to 5,000 meters above sea level, where the glacier is located.

After this experience, we will return to the refuge to enjoy our picnic lunch. At the end, we will return to the parking area where we will receive a brief briefing. Then, we will continue with an exciting descent by bicycle to the Limpiopungo Lagoon. Once there, a guided walk around this beautiful lagoon awaits us, followed by a visit to the museum and interpretation center.

Once we reach the National Park, you can Acquire handicrafts made by Indigenous people, already en route to the volcano we will make technical acclimatization stops, we will arrive at the parking lot to have a walk to the shelter and then we will walk up to 5000 m which is where we will find the Glacier.

After this we return to the shelter to take our box lunch, at the end we return to the parking lot where we will receive a little talk, then we continue with the descent on bicycles to the lagoon from Limpiopungo, at the end we will have with our guide a walk around from this lagoon and we will visit the museum and interpretation center, then return to Quito.

After the activity, we will start our return to Quito.

What's not included

Extra expenses not mentioned in the itinerary

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Presentation time 07:15 am at Plaza San Blas (Francisco de Caldas and Av. Pichincha.

Important notes

We suggest that you confirm booking details with us prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Monday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm)
EMERGENCY MOBILE NUMBER: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (Outside office hours)

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.