Cotopaxi: Exploring the Volcano of the Andes from Quito

5.0/5 Stars - Based on 5 Reviews

Explore Cotopaxi Volcano in the Andes – Book Your Quito Adventure Today!

Discover Experience the power of the Andes at the foot of Cotopaxi, one of the world`s highest active volcanoes. Explore high-altitude landscapes, admire the spectacular Limpiopungo Lagoon, and, if conditions permit, ascend to the heights of the José Rivas Refuge on an unforgettable adventure from Quito.
10 hours
Every day
Central Hotels in Quito - 06:00 hrs
Centrally located hotels in Quito - 6:00 PM

About this tour

Your adventure begins early, leaving Quito behind to venture onto the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes, a scenic route surrounded by mountains, valleys, and Andean landscapes. Upon arriving at Cotopaxi National Park, you`ll hike its trails through high-altitude grasslands and Andean wilderness until you reach Limpiopungo Lagoon, where you can enjoy incredible views of the volcano and take photographs.

Weather and operational conditions permitting, you can continue to the higher areas of Cotopaxi. A vehicle can take you to the parking area of the José Rivas Refuge, located at approximately 4,800 meters above sea level. From there, you can hike to the refuge to enjoy the spectacular beauty of this high-mountain environment. (Optional visit)

After exploring the park and enjoying time to relax and take photos, you`ll stop for lunch en route (not included). Then, you`ll begin your return to Quito, traveling along the Avenue of the Volcanoes once again, concluding a day filled with spectacular scenery and authentic Andean adventure.


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What's included

  • Pick-up and drop-off from centrally located hotels in Quito. Local guide in Spanish and English. Transportation.

Not included

  • Food and drinks

average

Warm clothing in layers Waterproof or windproof jacket Comfortable trousers Suitable walking shoes Hat Gloves Sunglasses Sunscreen Water bottle Camera.

Let's take care of our destination: Help us preserve the natural beauty of Cotopaxi National Park. Dispose of waste only in designated areas, and protect the park's flora and fauna so that this wonderful environment can continue to be enjoyed by everyone. Photos: Bernard Gagnon - Ymblanter - Arasalam (CC BY-SA 4.0) Christoph Schindler (CC BY-SA 3.0 DE)

Rates 2026-2027

EXC UIO VOLCAN COTOPAXI FD (COMPARTIDO)
- 20 per person 11/08/2026 - 31/12/2026
Adult: EUR 103
Child: EUR 103
ACTIVIDAD
Sightseeing Walking Tour
CANCELACION
General Terms
COSTO
Average
DIFICULTAD
Low
INTERES
Nature And Wildlife Photography Ecotourism Adventure Mountains
TEMPORADA
All Year Round
VIAJERO
Single Couple With Friends Family

Frequently asked questions

The Cotopaxi excursion from Quito typically includes round-trip transportation, a guide, and a visit to Cotopaxi National Park, one of Ecuador's main tourist attractions. Depending on the itinerary, it may also include scenic stops, time to enjoy the Andean landscape, and access to designated areas of the volcano. Exact services may vary depending on the date and the chosen option, so it's recommended to review the tour description before booking. Pay particular attention to whether it includes entrance fees, meals, drinks, trekking equipment, and travel insurance.

The tour to Cotopaxi volcano generally begins in Quito, departing from a designated meeting point or with pick-up from certain hotels, depending on the booking conditions. It is typically a full-day excursion, as Cotopaxi National Park is located outside the capital, and the tour includes transfers, stops, and time to explore the natural surroundings. The exact duration may vary depending on traffic, weather, and the day's schedule. Before booking, please confirm the start time, departure location, and estimated return time.

Prior trekking experience isn't always necessary for a Cotopaxi excursion. Many tours departing from Quito allow you to explore the National Park, view the volcano, and hike along trails of low to moderate difficulty. However, the activity takes place at high altitude, so it can be challenging for some. It's important to maintain a steady pace, stay hydrated, and follow the instructions of your expert guide. If you have heart or respiratory problems, or difficulty acclimatizing to altitude, consult a healthcare professional before booking this tour in Ecuador.

To visit Cotopaxi, it's recommended to wear comfortable, warm clothing, preferably in layers, as the temperature can change rapidly on the mountain. Hiking boots with good traction, a waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, and neck protection are also advisable. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, water, personal documents, and a small backpack. Due to the altitude and wind exposure, the weather can feel cold even on sunny days. Before your trip, check if the tour provides trekking poles, food, or other specific equipment.

The Cotopaxi excursion is usually offered for much of the year, but its availability depends on weather conditions, volcanic activity, and the regulations of Cotopaxi National Park. Rain, fog, strong winds, or access restrictions may modify the itinerary or prevent certain activities. For safety reasons, the operator may change the route, limit the hike, or reschedule the departure. When booking your excursion from Quito, please check the cancellation and modification policies, as well as the weather forecast. This way, you can better plan your trip to Ecuador and enjoy the Andean landscape.
5.0 5 reviews
5.0

Cotopaxi: aventura inolvidable entre paisajes andinos desde Quito

¡Una experiencia increíble para conocer el Cotopaxi! Salimos de Quito temprano y el camino hasta el parque fue precioso, con paisajes andinos que parecen de postal. El guía fue muy amable, explicó la historia y la naturaleza de la zona, y estuvo pendiente del grupo en todo momento. Al llegar, caminar cerca del refugio y contemplar el volcán fue espectacular; tuvimos suerte con el clima y las vistas fueron impresionantes. Recomiendo llevar ropa abrigada, protector solar y calzado cómodo, porque la altura se siente. Sin dudas, un paseo imperdible para quienes visitan Ecuador.

Martina López
5.0

An Unforgettable Day Exploring Cotopaxi’s Volcano and the Stunning Andes Landscapes from Quito

We had such a great day exploring Cotopaxi! Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the whole trip feel easy and fun. The views of the volcano and surrounding Andes were absolutely incredible, especially when the clouds cleared. We enjoyed the scenic drive, learned a lot about the area, and had enough time to take photos and enjoy the landscape. It was a well-organized, unforgettable experience from Quito. Definitely recommended for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and spectacular scenery!

Emily Carter
5.0

Cotopaxi: um dia inesquecível entre neve, altitude e paisagens andinas impressionantes

Foi um dia incrível explorando o Cotopaxi! O guia foi super atencioso e explicou tudo sobre o vulcão, a paisagem e a cultura local. Saímos de Quito cedo, e o trajeto até o parque já foi uma aventura, com vistas lindas dos Andes. A caminhada até o refúgio exigiu um pouco de esforço por causa da altitude, mas valeu demais. O ar puro, a neve e aquele visual são inesquecíveis, com certeza. Recomendo levar roupa quente, água e protetor solar. Foi tudo bem organizado pela Tangol, e eu voltaria sem pensar duas vezes.

Rafael Mendes
5.0

Cotopaxi hautnah: spektakuläre Andenlandschaften, klare Luft und ein wirklich unvergesslicher Tag

Die Cotopaxi-Tour war für mich ein absolutes Highlight unserer Ecuador-Reise. Die Fahrt von Quito durch die beeindruckende Andenlandschaft war schon ein Erlebnis. Unser Guide erklärte geduldig viel über den Vulkan, die Umgebung und die lokale Geschichte. Oben angekommen, fühlte sich die klare Luft einfach fantastisch an, und die Aussicht war unvergesslich. Alles war gut organisiert, trotzdem blieb genug Zeit für Fotos und zum Genießen. Ich kann die Tour jedem empfehlen, der Natur, Abenteuer und spektakuläre Landschaften liebt!

Lukas Schneider
5.0

Une aventure inoubliable au pied du Cotopaxi

Quelle journée incroyable au Cotopaxi ! Depuis Quito, l’organisation de Tangol Tours était impeccable : départ ponctuel, guide super sympa et explications passionnantes. On a traversé des paysages andins magnifiques avant d’atteindre les hauteurs du volcan. L’air était frais, mais la vue sur le cône enneigé valait largement l’effort. J’ai adoré marcher tranquillement, prendre des photos et écouter les histoires locales. Prévoyez des vêtements chauds et de bonnes chaussures. Une excursion inoubliable, parfaitement organisée, que je recommande sans hésiter !

Camille Dupont

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