Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Volcanoes Excursion

Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Volcanoes Excursion

We'll pick you up in Quito at the indicated time and head south on the Pan-American Highway. During the tour, we'll admire the Andes ecosystems and landscapes and you'll have the opportunity to drink the local tea that prevents altitude sickness. Don't worry about this as we have devices to measure the pressure, you just have to enjoy the ride!

The first step that you'll make will be in the Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world's highest active volcanoes. The park is Ecuador's second most important tourist attraction, beaten only by the Galapagos Islands in popularity.

Crossing the green páramo of the national park, you'll arrive at the flanks of the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit the park's museum and the Limpiopungo Lagoon, a stunning example of the imprint left by the ancient eruptions of the volcano. After a relaxed walk (if weather conditions allow it), you'll reach a forest of chuquiragas - a species of flower native to the Andes, which feed local hummingbirds - located almost 13,800 feet (4200 m) above sea level. 

Returning to the highway, you'll make your way southwest, arriving at the Quilotoa Volcano. The furthest west of Ecuador's volcanoes, the beautiful turquoise water-filled caldera was formed over 600 years ago after the volcano's devastating eruption. The dramatic scenery of the paradise lagoon is one of the country's most spectacular sights. A short hike (dependant on weather conditions) will bring you to the Quilotoa viewpoint, from which you'll enjoy an unforgettable panoramic view over Quilotoa Lagoon, one of the world's most beautiful volcanic lakes.

You'll then have free time to have lunch (not included) before taking the road back to Quito. We'll end the excursion by returning to Quito, where we're scheduled to arrive 12 hours after pickup.

Options

Upon booking, you can choose one of the following options:

Tour without pickup

You must be at the entrance of the NH Collection Hotel at 7 am.

Tour with pickup

Please note that during the booking process, you'll be able to select the point in Quito where you would like us to pick you up. Pickup will be between 6:30 and 7 am.