Full-Day Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Tour from Quito through the Andes

1 Day Round trip from Cotopaxi Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the iconic Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world
  • 02 Explore the landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park
  • 03 Observe wild horses, Andean birds, and high-altitude ecosystems
  • 04 Scenic drive through traditional Andean villages and volcanic valleys
  • 05 Visit the spectacular Quilotoa Lagoon crater lake
  • 06 Walk along the rim of the volcanic crater for breathtaking views

Experience two of the most spectacular landscapes in the Ecuadorian Andes in one unforgettable day. This full-day journey from Quito takes you into the volcanic highlands to discover the impressive Cotopaxi Volcano and the breathtaking turquoise waters of Quilotoa Lagoon. Travel through dramatic Andean scenery filled with volcanoes, traditional villages, and wide páramo landscapes as you explore Cotopaxi National Park and continue to one of South America's most beautiful volcanic crater lakes. Combining nature, adventure, photography, and authentic Andean landscapes, this is one of Ecuador's most impressive day trips.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Lake
Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Crater Lagoon from Quito

  • Early morning departure from Quito, heading south through the Avenue of the Volcanoes.

  • Arrival at Cotopaxi National Park to explore the high-Andean landscapes and admire the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.

  • Enjoy a scenic drive through Andean villages and rural landscapes on the way to Quilotoa.

  • Arrival at the viewpoint of Quilotoa Lagoon, with time to walk along the crater rim and enjoy the panoramic views.

  • Free time for lunch in a local restaurant (not included).

  • Return through the Andes to Quito in the late afternoon.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Cotopaxi 3 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • English-speaking guide
  • Transportation
  • Entrance fees

What's Not Included

  • Lunch
  • Tips

What to bring

  • Warm clothing
  • Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Water

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Hotel pick-up in Quito
Tour start
Cotopaxi, Ecuador
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 1 day finishes where it began, in Cotopaxi.

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Starting from

USD 170 /person
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