From Quito: Cotopaxi Volcano Tour
Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador
Explore Cotopaxi Volcano and its surroundings on a day trip from Quito. Enjoy Ecuadorian culture and guided hikes through diverse landscapes on a private or small group tour.
Highlights
- View Quito from the Mirador viewpoint
- Visit La Mariscal Interpretation Center in Cotopaxi National Park
- Walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon
- Hike to the José Rivas Refuge on Cotopaxi Volcano
- Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
Description
This full-day Cotopaxi adventure departs from Quito with hotel or Airbnb pickup by an English-speaking guide. Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes via the Panamerican Highway to Cotopaxi National Park.
First, stop at Mirador de Quito for panoramic city views. Then enter Cotopaxi Park, where you will find the moorlands, rich vegetation, and Limpiopungo Lagoon reflecting the Cotopaxi volcano.
At 11,811 feet altitude, visit the La Mariscal Interpretation Center to learn about Ecuadorian flora and fauna. Continue to the Cotopaxi volcano parking lot to start a hike through the Andean paramo and volcanic landscape.
The hike leads to José Rivas Refuge, where you can rest and enjoy tea or hot chocolate while viewing nearby peaks like Corazón, Rumiñahui, and Chimborazo.
On the return, explore the trail around Limpiopungo Lagoon, offering a close connection with the natural surroundings. The tour ends with a typical lunch at a local restaurant overlooking Cotopaxi before returning to Quito.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- English-speaking guide
- Comfortable transportation
- Entrance to Cotopaxi National Park
- Lunch (optional)
- Bottled water
Excludes
- Breakfast
- Tips
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring warm layered clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. The ideal time to visit is during dry season months from June to September.
