Quito: Cotopaxi & Quilotoa 2-Day Tour with Accommodation
Pichincha, Ecuador
2-day adventure. Visit Cotopaxi National Park, hike to José Rivas Refuge (4,800 m), and discover the magical Quilotoa Lagoon with accommodation, meals, and activities included. All inclusive.
Andean Adventure: Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Two-Day Tour from Quito
This two-day guided tour explores Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon, ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking a relaxed Andean experience.
Highlights
- Hike to José Rivas Refuge with expert local guides to explore iconic volcanic landscapes
- Overnight stay at Quilotoa for in-depth Andean immersion
- Meals and lodging included to avoid rushed one-day itineraries
- Witness the crater lake at sunset and dawn from Quilotoa
- Kayak or canoe on Quilotoa Lagoon for a unique volcanic perspective
Description
Day 1 | Quito – Cotopaxi – Quilotoa
Pickup from your Quito hotel begins the journey south. The first stop is La Forestal Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Quito and surrounding valleys. Next, visit the Santa Rita community to learn about Andean rural life and traditions.
Enter Cotopaxi National Park and hike to José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 meters (15,958 feet) on Cotopaxi Volcano’s slopes to experience volcanic landscapes. Continue to Limpiopungo Lagoon, a high-Andean wetland home to diverse wildlife, followed by the Mariscal Sucre Interpretation Center to learn about the park’s geography, flora, and fauna.
Lunch is not included, providing time to choose a preferred option. The afternoon includes a drive through Toachi Canyon, a natural river-carved formation, and exploration of the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve, known for its páramo landscapes and ecological transition zones.
The day ends at Quilotoa Lagoon, a volcanic crater lake with striking turquoise waters. Dinner and overnight accommodation in Quilotoa are included.
Day 2 | Quilotoa – Return to Quito
Begin with an included breakfast before descending to Quilotoa Lagoon to enjoy the natural scenery. Optional kayaking or canoeing on the lagoon is included, offering a rare viewpoint surrounded by volcanic mountains.
Lunch is not included to allow personal choice in the area. Returning to Quito, the tour stops for a tasting of traditional Salcedo artisanal ice cream. Arrival and drop-off at your Quito hotel conclude the tour.
Includes
- Hotel pickup in Quito
- Tourist transportation
- Professional tour guide
- Entrance to Cotopaxi National Park
- Visits to all sites listed in the itinerary
- One night accommodation in Quilotoa (double/triple room)
- Meals included: 1 breakfast and 1 dinner
- Salcedo ice cream tasting
Excludes
- Unspecified services and meals
- Single room supplement
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Services not detailed in the program
- Rates subject to availability
Important Information
- After booking, provide full names, nationalities, passport numbers, and dates of birth for all travelers to complete admission processes.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For best experience, bring layered clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. The tour runs year-round, but clear weather enhances views.
