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Full-day Cotopaxi

5.03 reviewsCotopaxi National Park

Descriptions come from the operator and are translated automatically.

  • 9–10 hours
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • 2 languages
  • Instant confirmation

Highlights

On our 1-day tour of El Cotopaxi, the largest active volcano in Ecuador and the world. We have the perfect mix between nature and adventure, combining 3 main activities: - Starting with the walk to the José Rivas shelter. - When we get down from the refuge we will go downhill by bicycle (optional but very fun activity) from the upper part of the volcano to the lower part of the park. - Finally, making a stop at Limpiopungo Lagoon, famous for reflecting the area's mountains in its crystalline waters. With its majestic snow-capped summit and imposing presence, it attracts mountaineers and nature lovers alike.

Inclusions

What's included

  • Certified bilingual Spanish/English guide
  • Typical food or vegetarian option.
  • Authorized and comfortable tourist transportation.
  • Use of bicycle

What's not

  • alcoholic beverages
  • Extra food and drinks
  • Driver Tips
  • Tips Guides

Itinerary

  1. Pick-up at 07h30

    30 min

  2. Acclimatization. Our first stop is at an elevation of 2,945 meters above sea level (9,662.07 feet) to acclimatize and take photographs.

    15 min

  3. At the lower part of the volcano we begin with an explanation about the flora and fauna of the place.

    30 min

  4. Ascent by vehicle to the parking lot.

    20 min

  5. Hike up to the José Rivas Refuge. This hike offers a unique opportunity to experience high mountain beauty without the need for technical equipment or prior mountaineering experience. Our guided hike takes you through stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks.

    3 h

  6. Downhill cycling (optional)

    1 hAdmission included

  7. Stop at the Limpiopungo Lagoon, perfect setting for photography and contemplation and bird watching.

    30 min

  8. Lunch

    1 h

  9. Arrival in Quito around 5:00 pm.

    2 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

5.0

  • 53
  • 40
  • 30
  • 20
  • 10

Ratings come from 3 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

Meeting point
References: 1.- Next to the Santa Catalina de Siena Monastery. 2.- Close to the Sucre School. 3.- Next to the Manuela Saenz Museum.
Pickup
Pickup is offered, or you can meet at the starting point.
Ticket type
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group size
Up to 15 travellers
Operated by
Friends Expeditions
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Not recommended for people with heart conditions
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • Not wheelchair accessible

How it compares in Quito

  • Its from-price is 31% below the median of the 338 day trips we list in Quito.
  • Its length is typical for the group.
  • By number of reviews it ranks 165 of 338.
  • The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Quito

Quito, Ecuador's high Andean capital, has one of the best-preserved colonial centres in Latin America, ringed by volcanoes and green mountains.

The historic centre was among the very first places named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its churches, plazas and monasteries are spectacular. La Compañía de Jesús glows with gold leaf inside, the Basilica del Voto Nacional has gargoyles shaped like Ecuadorian animals, and Plaza Grande is surrounded by the cathedral and the presidential palace.

Top-ranked sights in Quito: Cotopaxi National Park, Basilica of the National Vow (La Basílica del Voto Nacional), Independence Plaza (Plaza de la Independencia).

See all 1008 experiences in Quito

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Was/now prices come from the operator, never from us.

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