Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Tour | Full Day Available from Quito

Cotopaxi and Quilotoa: Discover the Andean Highlands

On this Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Tour, you will discover the beauty of the Andes mountains, visiting at the first instance the Cotopaxi National Park.

The Cotopaxi volcano and enjoying the trail of the Limpiopungo lagoon, then entering the western mountains on our way to Quilotoa Lake, where the beauty of the crops of the Andean communities.

The trip begins from Quito City to Cotopaxi, recognized as one of the most active volcanoes. With a height of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). Cotopaxi Volcano is the second-highest volcano in Ecuador.

Cotopaxi Nacional Park

Our tour definitely passes through Cotopaxi National Park, where you’ll see its snow-capped peak contrasting with the beautiful Andean sky, captivating those who contemplate this mountainous landscape.

The park has a great variety of Andean paramo, full of volcanic rocks and resistant bushes, as well as a large amount of fauna, such as the Andean condor. If you are interested in climbing to the base camp of Jose Ribas or the glaciers of Cotopaxi, here is another option: Cotopaxi Tour.

Quilotoa lake

Quilotoa Lake, considered a wonder of the Ecuadorian Andes, is located in the highlands.

This impressive lagoon is located within the remains of a collapsed volcano of the same name, and its waters shine with a turquoise or bluish tone depending on the time of year that seems almost otherworldly.

The steep walls of the crater add to the spectacular landscape, creating a breathtaking panorama that will leave you in awe. Visitors can walk along the edge of the crater or deep into the lagoon, enjoying a peaceful serenity that surrounds this wonder.

Learn more about this wonder of the Andes: Quilotoa, a nature and rural destination.

Highlights

• Cotopaxi National Park: The park is a protected area in Ecuador known for its impressive landscapes dominated by the Cotopaxi Volcano.
• Limpiopungo in the Cotopaxi National Park: These natural reserves are located in the middle of the vegetation of the moor.
• Quilotoa Crater Lake is a natural wonder of Ecuador, located within the collapsed caldera of the Quilotoa volcano.

Itinerary

1. Stop 1Pick up Quito

   

   We depart from Quito to begin our incredible tour. Our journey will be wonderful, and if we are lucky, the day will be clear to observe the avenue of volcanoes (several volcanoes that could be seen from the road).

2. Stop 2Limpiopungo lagoon

   

   Your adventure begins when you arrive at Cotopaxi National Park, one of the most emblematic destinations in the Ecuadorian Andes. Here you will trek around the beautiful Limpiopungo Lagoon, a natural setting surrounded by Andean moorland and with breathtaking views of the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.

   During the hike you will enjoy fresh air, open landscapes, and the opportunity to observe Andean birds and wild horses. It is a perfect experience to connect with nature, capture spectacular photographs, and experience the unique energy of the mountain.

3. Stop 3Quilotoa Trekking

   

   Your adventure in Quilotoa Lake begins by descending the trail that takes you from the edge of the crater to the edge of the lake. With each step, the impressive turquoise color of the water becomes more intense, and the volcanic landscape envelops you in a unique experience.

   When you reach the base, you can rest by the lagoon, enjoy the surroundings, and take spectacular pictures. Then, the challenge continues with the ascent back to the viewpoint, making this trekking an exciting and rewarding experience in the heart of the Andes.

Prices per person