Enjoy a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. Take in the spectacular volcano views from the Limpiopungo lagoon, and then hike to the Jose Ribas shelter as you experience the high altitude environment.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later: Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 9 hours: Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide: English, Spanish
Pickup included: Hotel pickup is available from three main areas: La Carolina, Plaza Foch, and Plaza Grande (Independence Square). You will be contacted one day before the tour to confirm your pickup time.

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Imogen – United Kingdom

We had the best day! Veronica was a fantastic guide - enthusiastic, informative, and checking in on all of us throughout. Erik was a great, safe driver. The tour stops were at the Cotopaxi national park museum, Limpiopungo Lagoon, and then the hike (which took us around 45 minutes to climb to the refuge, then around 20 minutes to walk back down). We absolutely loved the hike - my husband was nervous about getting altitude sickness, but Veronica advised us to take it slow and looked after everyone, and we had the option to have coca tea. The views from Cotopaxi were incredible!! At the refuge, there is also a cafe. The breakfast and lunch stops were both delicious (around $5 breakfast & $6 set lunch). Along the drive to Cotopaxi, Veronica taught us lots about Quito and the surrounding areas, and answered any questions about the day’s itinerary. They also picked us up and dropped us off at our hotel near the Old Town. Overall, a brilliant day! We would highly recommend this tour ⭐️

Lydia – United States

We had an amazing time! Our guide Diana was wonderful. We were picked up at our hotel and dropped off, which made it very easy. Our guide did a great job adapting the tour based on the weather. We ended up getting some great views, despite having a rainy day. We also had many wonderful stops along the way. You should book this tour!

Itinerary

3 pickup location options:
La Carolina, Plaza Foch, Independence Square
Bus/coach
(1 hour)
Breakfast (30 minutes)
Bus/coach
(40 minutes)
Cotopaxi National Park
Guided tour (4.5 hours)
Cotopaxi Visitors Center
Guided tour (45 minutes)
Laguna de Limpiopungo
Guided tour (15 minutes)
Bus/coach
(40 minutes)
Lunch (1 hour)
Bus/coach
(1 hour)
3 drop-off locations:
Plaza Foch, La Carolina, Independence Square

Main stop

Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

Experience the natural beauty of Cotopaxi National Park in the Andes
Take in the stunning views of the volcano from the Limpiopungo lagoon
Hike to the Jose Ribas shelter at 16,000 feet above sea level

Full description

Visit Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador’s Andes Mountains. The park is home to the active Cotopaxi volcano that towers 19,642 feet above sea level.

When you reach the park your naturalist guide will show you the exceptional variety of flora and fauna. Hike to the Limpiopungo lagoon, located on the slopes of the volcano.

Stop at the lagoon for a short rest to take in the landscapes and the spectacular views of the volcano. Continue the hike to the Jose Ribas shelter and experience the environment at almost 16,000 feet above sea level.

Includes

Transportation
Bilingual guide (English and Spanish)
Entrances

Food

Important information

Know before you go

Due to ongoing COVID-19 preventative measures, park visitation may suffer changes without previous notice
Times are subject to traffic, road conditions and reasons of force majeure such as the closing of roads that could cause a delay in the normal operation of the tours

Nearby destinations

Nearby sights

From Quito: Cotopaxi National Park Full-Day Tour with Hike