Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Adventure | 2 Days | from QUITO, ECUADOR

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$150.00

  • Experience the majesty of Cotopaxi volcano and Quilotoa Lake on this 2 day trip from Quito!
  • Hike up to the Cotopaxi refugee (4864 m) and cycle back down.
  • Trek the impressive Quilotoa Lake and take in the views of the crater.
  • Visit an indigenous market and spend the night in a beautiful lodge in Volcano Avenue.
  • Tour departs on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Choose your date below!

  • Save your place with a small deposit today. Pay the rest later.
  • Deposit 100% refundable until 48h before your start date.
  • Safe Checkout Secured by Stripe

The 2-day tours depart three times per week:

  • Wednesday
  • Thursday*
  • Saturday

*Please note – If you start the tour on a Thursday, you will do the Quilotoa Crater Lake on Day 1, followed by Cotopaxi Bike and Hike on Day 2. The first breakfast on Day 1 is not included if you start the tour on a Thursday.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cotopaxi Bike and Hike

You will be picked up around 7.00 am at La Tribuna de Los Shyris, at 7.15 am at La Plaza Foch, New Town, or at 7.30 am at Plaza Blas, Old Town, Quito. There will be a breakfast stop before you travel to Cotopaxi National Park. Once you arrive, you will visit the Interpretation Centre where you will learn about the Cotopaxi National Park. Inside the centre, there are showrooms, a coffee shop and souvenirs for purchase. 

After your visit to the centre, you will head to the parking place where you will receive an explanation about Cotopaxi volcano itself, as well as the flora and fauna characteristic of the area. 

You will hike up to the refugee which is situated at 4864 m. The hike can be challenging due to the altitude so it is likely you will be grateful for the rest once you reach the destination! At the refugee, you will have a rest and be able to enjoy the views of the National Park. 

You will begin downhill cycling to Limpiopungo Lagoon after the break. This will take around an hour. After you enjoy your hard-earned lunch, the transport will take you to your evening accommodation. Depending on availability, you will stay at Papagayo Hosteria or Chuquiragua Lodge. 

Day 2: Quilotoa Crater Lake

You will be picked up from your lodge accommodation between 8.00 – 8.30 am. Here you will enjoy breakfast before starting the tour. 

The trip begins with a visit to an indigenous market which varies depending on which days you do the tour. On Thursdays, you will visit Saquisilí and on Sundays, you will head to Pujilí. Visitors who have already seen the Otavalo market will appreciate the contrast between the two different kinds of markets. 

After your market trip, you will head to Quilotoa Crater to take in the views of this natural beauty from the mirador at the top. From here, you will make your way down to the lake. There is an option to rent kayaks and the bottom (not included in price). This is a tough hike and those not wanting to brave the ascent back up can rent a horse or mule for the journey (not included in price). 

After the trek is over, you will visit the Tigua community who are well known for their handicrafts. Your return to Quito will be around 6.00 pm. 

Refund Policy

  • In order to book this experience, you will need to pay a deposit.
  • This depòsit is fully refundable up until 48 hours before the start of the activity.
  • If you are unable to agree on a date or the organiser cannot meet your requirements, your deposit is automatically returned to you in full.
  • There is no refund for cancellations made fewer than 48 hours before the start of the activity.
  • The rest of the payment for the experience is payable to the organiser, either upon arrival at the destination or before in some cases, if the organiser requires it. The organiser will arrange this with you.
  • The refund of the second payment, which goes directly to the trip organiser, is entirely based on the organiser’s own Terms and Conditions.
  • Please read our customer Terms and Conditions for more information.

FAQ

What should I bring?

  • Money for extras not included
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Change of clothes (we advise you to wear layers as the weather can change quickly!)
  • Snacks

How can I help myself deal with the altitude?

Stay hydrated, do not drink the night before you attempt the treks and allow yourself some time in Quito to acclimatise.

How long should I allow to acclimatise?

It is always recommended that you allow yourself at least 2-3 days to acclimatise before you take on trekking at high altitudes. You may find that a 5-7 days is better.

What should I wear?

The weather in both of these places can be unpredictable so you are recommended to bring waterproof clothing which will keep you warm. Layers are always helpful.

Hiking boots are also advised.

What's Included

What’s Included?

  • 2 Breakfasts – Breakfast on both days only if you start on Wed or Sat.
  • 2 lunches
  • Bilingual guide
  • Return transport from Quito
  • One night accommodation in shared room
  • Bike & helmet (Cotopaxi)

What’s Not Included?

  • Dinner
  • Kayak in Quilotoa ($5)
  • Horse/Mule ride at Quilotoa ($10)
  • Tips for the guides

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What's great about Community Adventures?

  • The whole team are incredibly passionate about showing visitors the real Ecuador!
  • They have over 20 years of experience in tourism that they use to tailor their trips to give you unforgettable memories of your visit.
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