From Quito: Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour with Hike

Pichincha, Ecuador



Enjoy a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. Take in the spectacular volcano views from the Limpiopungo lagoon, and then hike to the Jose Ribas shelter as you experience the high altitude environment.

Cotopaxi National Park Hike in the Andes, Ecuador

Explore Cotopaxi National Park, located in Ecuador’s Andes, with a hike suited for nature lovers and active travelers.

Highlights

  • Explore the natural landscape of Cotopaxi National Park in the Andes
  • View the Cotopaxi volcano from Limpiopungo lagoon
  • Hike up to the Jose Ribas shelter at nearly 16,000 feet above sea level

Description

Visit Cotopaxi National Park, home to the active Cotopaxi volcano, which rises 19,642 feet above sea level. A bilingual naturalist guide will introduce you to the diverse flora and fauna within the park.

Your hike begins at Limpiopungo lagoon on the volcano’s slopes, where you can pause to observe the surrounding landscapes and volcano views. The trail continues to the Jose Ribas shelter, located at around 16,000 feet, allowing an immersive high-altitude experience.

Includes

  • Transportation
  • Bilingual guide (English and Spanish)
  • Park entrance fees

Excludes

  • Food

Important Information

  • Covid-19 measures may affect park access with little notice
  • Tour times can vary due to traffic, road conditions, or unforeseen road closures

Easy Cancellation

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

For the best experience, bring layered clothing and hiking shoes. Morning visits are recommended for clearer views and smoother trail conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes transportation from Quito, a bilingual naturalist guide, a hike to the José Ribas shelter, and visits to key sites like Limpiopungo lagoon.
The hike is moderately challenging due to high altitude, reaching nearly 16,000 feet, so a reasonable fitness level is recommended.
Beginners can join but should be prepared for high-altitude conditions and a moderately strenuous hike.
You may spot Andean condors, wild horses, foxes, and diverse native plants unique to Ecuador’s Andean region.
The tour typically starts and ends at central locations in Quito, with pickup details provided upon booking.
The dry season from June to September is ideal for hiking to avoid rain and muddy trails in Ecuador.
Cotopaxi is an active volcano, but the park is monitored closely and access is limited to safe areas during eruptions.
No special permits are required for the guided hikes, but park entrance fees apply and are included in the tour price.
Children can participate if they are comfortable with high-altitude hiking and have appropriate fitness levels.
Bring layers of clothing, water, sun protection, good hiking shoes, and snacks suitable for high-altitude trekking in Ecuador.

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