Quito: Private Cotopaxi National Park & Pasochoa Wildlife

Pichincha, Ecuador



Experience Ecuador’s Andes up close on a full-day tour from Quito. Walk through Cotopaxi National Park, visit Limpiopungo Lagoon, explore the cloud forest of the Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge

Private Day Tour to Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lake from Quito

This private guided tour suits travelers seeking to explore Ecuador’s Andes with visits to Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa crater lake.

Highlights

  • Explore Cotopaxi National Park with volcano views
  • Walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon in the Andean highlands
  • Admire the snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano
  • Visit the turquoise Quilotoa crater lake
  • Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes with a private guide

Description

Depart from Quito and journey along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, passing traditional villages and Andean plains on the way to Cotopaxi National Park. This park features one of the highest active volcanoes globally, surrounded by páramo grasslands and rugged mountain landscapes.

At Cotopaxi, enjoy spectacular views of the volcano and visit Limpiopungo Lagoon, a quiet glacial lake where you can walk the shore and observe wild horses and Andean birds.

Lunch is served at a local restaurant offering traditional Ecuadorian cuisine amid countryside views.

In the afternoon, travel to Quilotoa Lake, a volcanic crater lake with striking turquoise waters. Take in expansive views from the crater rim before the return drive to Quito.

Includes

  • Private licensed guide
  • Private transportation
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • All entrance fees

Excludes

  • Gratuities

Important Information

  • The tour involves walking at high altitudes.
  • Weather can change quickly; dress in layers.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

Cancellation Policy

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

Book this tour for clear weather days to maximize visibility and bring layered clothing and comfortable walking shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided visits to Cotopaxi National Park, Pasochoa Wildlife Reserve, Quilotoa Lake, and transportation from Quito through Ecuador’s Andes.
The private day tour usually lasts around 10 to 12 hours, departing early in the morning from Quito and returning in the evening.
Yes, you can observe Andean birds, wild horses, and other local wildlife around Limpiopungo Lagoon and Pasochoa Wildlife Reserve.
The tour travels along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, passing traditional villages and highland landscapes in Ecuador’s Andes.
Cotopaxi is one of the world's highest active volcanoes, and visitors can view it from a safe distance within the national park.
The tour suits travelers interested in Ecuador’s volcanoes, crater lakes, Andean nature, and wildlife experiences.
Walks at Cotopaxi and Pasochoa vary from easy to moderate, suitable for most fitness levels; be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
The dry season from June to September offers clearer views, but the tour operates year-round with varying weather conditions in Ecuador’s Andes.
It’s recommended to bring layered clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and water due to changing altitude and weather in Ecuador’s highlands.
Check the tour provider’s website for the latest information on operating hours and booking availability for Ecuador tours.

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