Like a towering sentinel in the vast Andean landscape, the Cotopaxi Volcano beckons adventure seekers from around the world.
Offering a full-day tour from Quito that includes entrances to Cotopaxi National Park, this experience promises to leave visitors breathless, not just from the altitude, but from the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds them.
From the moment travelers step foot in the park, they will be captivated by the stunning views, diverse wildlife, and fascinating cultural history that await them.
But this adventure is just the beginning; there is so much more to discover and explore in this enchanting destination.
Good To Know

- Cotopaxi Volcano is the centerpiece of Cotopaxi National Park and stands at over 19,000 feet high.
- The tour offers stunning views of Cotopaxi and includes a visit to a lagoon favored by water birds.
- Travelers have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the comfortable transportation provided.
- The tour includes stops at different altitudes for acclimation and offers tips for adjusting to the high altitude.
Pricing and Booking Details

When booking the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour from Quito, travelers have the convenience of reserving now and paying later, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. The lowest price guarantee ensures that travelers are getting the best value for their money. Group size pricing is available, ensuring that individuals, couples, and larger groups can find a suitable option.
The tour starts from $69.00 and offers a comprehensive experience that lasts approximately 12 hours. Pickup is offered, and mobile tickets are available for ease of access. With the free cancellation policy, travelers have the flexibility to change their plans if necessary. This allows them to book with confidence, knowing that they can cancel without any financial penalty.
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Overview of Cotopaxi Volcano

Continuing the journey from pricing and booking details, let’s now explore the captivating overview of Cotopaxi Volcano, the centerpiece of Cotopaxi National Park. Rising over 19,000 feet (nearly 6,000 meters) high, Cotopaxi dominates the landscape with its majestic presence. This active stratovolcano holds great significance, not only for its impressive height but also for its unique wildlife and natural beauty.
To showcase the rich biodiversity of Cotopaxi National Park, here is a table highlighting some of the extraordinary wildlife you may encounter during your visit:
| Wildlife | Description | Emotional Response |
|---|---|---|
| Andean Condor | Majestic bird with a 10-foot wingspan | Awe |
| Vicuña | Graceful camelid known for its fine wool | Fascination |
| Andean Fox | Elusive predator with a reddish-brown coat | Intrigue |
| Giant Hummingbird | Vibrant bird with a long, curved beak | Delight |
| Paramo Frog | Colorful amphibian found in high-altitude wetlands | Amazement |
As you traverse the park, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a lagoon favored by water birds and visit an interpretive center to learn more about the area’s unique ecosystems. The Cotopaxi Volcano and its surrounding wildlife offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of nature.
Traveler Photos and Reviews
Based on the 774 reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor, the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour from Quito has received an outstanding overall rating of 5.0.
Traveler photos and reviews play a crucial role in the decision-making process of potential travelers. The impact of reviews can’t be underestimated, as they provide firsthand experiences and insights into the tour. These reviews help potential travelers gauge the quality of the tour, the professionalism of the guides, and the overall satisfaction of previous participants.
The high rating of 5.0 indicates that the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour is highly recommended by previous travelers. The positive reviews highlight the great experiences, beautiful views of Cotopaxi, and the knowledgeable guides who enhance the tour.
The influence of these reviews on decision making is significant, as potential travelers seek assurance and confidence in booking their adventure.
Tour Highlights and Guide Feedback
Having established the outstanding overall rating and positive reviews of the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour from Quito, it’s now time to explore the tour highlights and the valuable feedback received from guides and participants. Here are the key highlights and feedback from the tour:
Stunning views of Cotopaxi: Participants praised the breathtaking vistas of Cotopaxi Volcano, which stands over 19,000 feet high and dominates the landscape of Cotopaxi National Park.
Knowledgeable and friendly guides: The guides, including Camilla, Mauro, Veronica, Mauricio, Adrián, and Irene, received high praise for their expertise and friendliness. They provided valuable information about the volcano and the surrounding area.
Comfortable transportation: Participants appreciated the comfortable transportation provided during the tour, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Beautiful lagoon: The tour included a visit to a lagoon favored by water birds, offering a picturesque setting for participants to enjoy.
Park Experience, Adventure, and Safety
Participants can expect an immersive and thrilling park experience, filled with adventure and a strong emphasis on safety. The Cotopaxi Full-Day tour from Quito offers a challenging hike that takes you to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, standing over 19,000 feet high. Safety precautions are taken throughout the tour to ensure the well-being of participants.
The knowledgeable guides provide information about the volcano at the information center and make stops for picturesque views of the surrounding volcanoes. While some participants felt that there were too many stops for sales pitches, the well-planned itinerary includes visits to a restaurant where you can feed llamas and stops at different altitudes for acclimation to the high altitude.
It’s important to walk slowly and take breaks during the challenging hike. Overall, participants can expect a safe and adventurous experience in Cotopaxi National Park.
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Overall Recommendation
The Cotopaxi Full-Day tour from Quito comes highly recommended for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Cotopaxi National Park. Here are four reasons why this tour is a must-do activity:
Breathtaking Views: The tour offers stunning views of Cotopaxi Volcano, which stands at over 19,000 feet and dominates the landscape of the park. The sight of this majestic volcano is truly awe-inspiring.
Knowledgeable Guides: The tour guides are friendly and knowledgeable, providing valuable insights about the area and offering tips for acclimating to the high altitude. Their expertise adds to the overall experience.
Well-Organized Itinerary: The tour is well-planned, with comfortable transportation and stops at different altitudes for acclimation. The itinerary includes visits to an interpretive center, a lagoon favored by water birds, and even a restaurant where you can feed llamas.
Great Energy: The guides, especially Irene, receive high praise from previous travelers for their enthusiasm and energy. Their positive attitude enhances the overall enjoyment of the tour.
The best time to visit Cotopaxi National Park is during the dry season, from June to September, when the weather is generally clear and you can fully appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.
Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure!
Directions for Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour
To begin your Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour, head to the designated meeting point in Quito at the scheduled start time.
It’s important to prepare for the high altitude of Cotopaxi, as it can have an impact on your body. Make sure to drink plenty of water before and during the tour to stay hydrated. It’s also recommended to acclimate to the altitude by spending a few days in Quito beforehand.
As for hiking gear, it’s advised to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction to navigate the rocky terrain. Layered clothing is recommended, as the weather can change quickly at high altitudes. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sunlight.
Additional Information and Tips
After preparing for the high altitude and gathering at the meeting point in Quito, it’s time to explore additional information and tips for your Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
Tips for acclimating to high altitude:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Take it slow and allow your body time to adjust.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity until you have acclimated.
- Consider taking altitude sickness medication if recommended by your doctor.
Best time to visit Cotopaxi:
- The dry season, from June to September, offers clearer skies and better visibility.
- It’s advisable to avoid the rainy season, from October to May, when the weather can be unpredictable.
Wear appropriate clothing:
- Dress in layers to adjust to changing temperatures.
- Bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking on uneven terrain.
Follow safety guidelines:
- Listen to your guide and follow their instructions.
- Stay on designated paths and trails.
- Respect the wildlife and environment by not littering or disturbing the natural habitat.
Common Questions
What Should I Wear and Pack for the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour?
For the Cotopaxi full-day tour, it is essential to wear comfortable and layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and a hat. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, snacks, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour?
Age restrictions and accessibility concerns should be considered for the Cotopaxi Full-Day tour. It’s important to check with the tour operator for any specific age restrictions and to inquire about the level of physical activity involved.
Is Lunch Included in the Price of the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour?
Lunch options are available on the Cotopaxi Full-Day tour, with the price of the tour not including lunch. Travelers with dietary restrictions can inquire about suitable options when booking the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Camera or Do I Need to Rent One for the Tour?
Yes, travelers are encouraged to bring their own cameras on the Cotopaxi Full-Day tour. There is no need to rent one as personal cameras are allowed to capture the stunning views and memorable moments throughout the experience.
Is the Cotopaxi Full-Day Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The Cotopaxi full-day tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues due to the challenging hike at high altitude. The itinerary includes stops at different altitudes for acclimation and an informative visit to an interpretive center.
The Sum Up
To sum it up, the Cotopaxi Full-Day tour from Quito offers an unforgettable adventure to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Cotopaxi Volcano and its surrounding national park.
With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and valuable tips for acclimating to the altitude, travelers can expect a well-organized and exciting excursion.
The positive feedback from previous visitors, particularly praising the guide named Irene, further underscores the quality of this tour.
Don’t miss out on the chance to learn about the breathtaking natural wonders of Cotopaxi with this incredible full-day tour.
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