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Activities in Quito

Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Viewpoint Day Trip

  • 243 reviews | 2,132 travellers
    Excellent! From the moment we picked them up at the hotel, they were very punctual. It was a spectacular 12 hours. Yudy and Silvia were wonderful hosts, and despite some inclement weather, they made the trip unforgettable, attentive to every detail. More than a tourist tour, it was a family trip. ABSOLUTELY RECOMMENDED!!!
    10 Juan Agustín
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
  • Hotel pickup
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts

On this day trip to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Lagoon, you’ll head into the Ecuadorian highlands to discover one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and a stunning lagoon whose turquoise waters lie inside a volcanic crater. It’ll be a day full of Andean contrasts!

On this day trip to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Lagoon, you’ll head into the Ecuadorian highlands to discover one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and a stunning lagoon whose turquoise waters lie inside a volcanic crater. It’ll be a day full of Andean contrasts!

Day Trip Details

At the scheduled time, we’ll pick you up in Quito and head south. If the sky is clear, during the journey we’ll be able to see the silhouettes of Pasochoa, Corazón, and the Ilinizas, iconic peaks of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Our first major stop will be Cotopaxi National Park, the second most visited attraction in the country. We’ll begin by visiting the Interpretation Center, where the guide will reveal the secrets and history of the mighty Cotopaxi. Afterward, we’ll head to Limpiopungo Lagoon for a walk to observe birds and plants that have managed to adapt to the cold high-altitude climate.

We’ll continue our route southwest through the Indigenous community of Tigua, world-famous for its colorful paintings and Andean-themed handicrafts. Before reaching our final destination, we’ll stop in the community of Zumbahua to admire the scale of the Toachi River canyon from its viewpoint.

Finally, we’ll reach Quilotoa Volcano. From its main viewpoint, we’ll enjoy an impressive panoramic view of its turquoise lagoon, considered one of the most beautiful in the world due to its volcanic origin. If the weather allows, we’ll take a short walk to enjoy the best views of the crater.

After the visit, you’ll have free time to have lunch on your own and sample local cuisine before starting the return journey to Quito.

We’ll finish the day trip by returning to the starting point approximately 12 hours after pickup.

Pickup Options

This tour includes pickup at the following hotels in Quito. When booking, you’ll need to choose where you’d like to be picked up:

  • Sheraton: at 6:30 am
  • Dann Carlton: at 6:35 am
  • J.W. Marriott: at 6:50 am
  • NH Collection: at 6:55 am
  • Río Amazonas: at 7:10 am
  • Hilton Colón: at 7:10 am
  • Patio Andaluz: at 7:25 am
View complete description

More Information

Duration

12 hours.

Language

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English and Spanish. The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English and Spanish.

Included

Transportation by minibus or bus

English–speaking guide

Admission to Cotopaxi National Park

Not included

Food and drinks

When to book?

You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 1 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Overland Adventure Corporate name: OVERLAND ADVENTURE OVERLANDECUADOR S.A.S Registered Office: manuel cornejo E5-105 y simon cardenas, Quito, Ecuador Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): RUC 1793098061001 Contact information Email: gerencia@overladventure.com Phone: +593 98 188 4297

If you have any other questions please contact us.

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