Quito: Ruco Pichincha Volcano Hike with Cable Car Ride

Pichincha, Ecuador



Hike to the summit of the Ruco Pichincha volcano on a guided tour from Quito. Ride a cable car to a cafe 4,000 meters above sea level, visit the "Cueva del Oso," and enjoy a packed lunch.

Ruco Pichincha Volcano Summit Hike with Guided Tour in Quito

This guided hike to the summit of Ruco Pichincha volcano in Quito suits active travelers comfortable with high-altitude trekking.

Highlights

  • Hike to the Ruco Pichincha volcano summit with a packed lunch included
  • Visit the 'Cueva del Oso' cave and photograph the natural surroundings
  • Enjoy round-trip transportation and guided support throughout the tour

Description

Meet your guide at the Basílica del Voto Nacional before heading to the cable car. The cable car ascends to a café located at 4,000 meters above sea level, where you can rest and enjoy a coffee while overlooking the landscape.

From there, visit a viewpoint featuring a scenic swing ideal for photography. Continue to the nearby 'Cueva del Oso' to capture more photos of the unique natural environment.

Begin the ascent to the Ruco Pichincha volcano summit, taking in panoramic views along the way. At the top, enjoy a packed lunch before starting your return hike.

Descend back to the café, then take the cable car down to the starting point. The tour concludes at the Basílica del Voto Nacional.

Includes

  • Transportation from Basílica del Voto Nacional to cable car by private car, taxi, or van for groups
  • Visit to café at 4,000 meters altitude
  • Visit to scenic swing viewpoint
  • Visit to 'Cueva del Oso'
  • Guided ascent of Ruco Pichincha volcano

Excludes

  • Transportation to the meeting point at Basílica del Voto Nacional
  • Cable car ticket fees

Important Information

  • This tour requires physical fitness due to challenging hiking and high altitude.
  • Altitude may affect some participants; be prepared for possible symptoms.
  • Weather conditions can be cold and windy at high elevations.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, bring warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, water, and sun protection. Morning departures are recommended when weather is more stable. Book in advance to secure your spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a cable car ride to 4,000 meters, a guided hike to Ruco Pichincha volcano’s summit, a packed lunch, visits to Cueva del Oso, and round-trip transportation from Quito.
The tour meeting point is at the Basílica del Voto Nacional in Quito.
The cable car ascends to a café located approximately 4,000 meters above sea level.
The hike is suitable for active travelers with a reasonable fitness level due to the high altitude and steep terrain.
You can enjoy panoramic views of Quito city and the surrounding Ecuadorian mountains from the summit.
Yes, transportation to and from the Basílica del Voto Nacional is included in the tour.
Yes, the tour includes opportunities to photograph natural scenery including the Cueva del Oso and mountain vistas.
It's best to check the website for current hours and seasonal conditions before booking your hike in Ecuador.
Comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and water are recommended, but no special equipment is required.
A packed lunch is provided as part of the guided hike to the volcano’s summit.

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