Explore Cotopaxi National Park and its towering active volcano with our guided day trips and multi-day adventures from Quito. Choose from horseback riding, hiking, and combination tours that include park entrances and transportation.
Free Cancellation Visit Cotopaxi National Park to see one of the world's highest active volcanoes and unique Andean wildlife.
Free Cancellation Ride horses with Andean cowboys and hike to the base camp of Cotopaxi, South America’s highest active volcano.
Free Cancellation Visit Cotopaxi National Park to see the 5,897m active volcano and the high-altitude Limpiopungo lagoon.
Free Cancellation Explore the high-altitude landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park and the emerald waters of Quilotoa Lagoon.
Free Cancellation Discover the Ecuadorian Andes and Baños with local guides through community visits, nature, and mountain adventures.
Free Cancellation Escape the city to explore Cotopaxi National Park and see one of the world's highest active volcanoes up close.
Free Cancellation Trek to the 4,864m basecamp of Cotopaxi Volcano and mountain bike down its slopes on this high-altitude adventure.
Free Cancellation Hike to 4,864m on Cotopaxi and ride horses through the Andean highlands on this day trip from Quito.
Free Cancellation Hike to the 5,000m glacier of Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, on a guided day trip from Quito.
Free Cancellation Visit Cotopaxi National Park to see Ecuador’s second-highest volcano, a 5,897-meter peak in the Avenue of Volcanoes.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Cotopaxi — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A guided tour to Cotopaxi National Park offers a thrilling journey into the high Andes, bringing you face-to-face with one of the world's highest active volcanoes. Expect dramatic, sweeping landscapes, unique high-altitude ecosystems, and a physical but deeply rewarding adventure.
Take a scenic, flat walk around this high-altitude wetland at 3,800 meters. You will enjoy stunning reflections of the volcano and spot diverse Andean wildlife.
Challenge your lungs with a steep 45-minute hike up red volcanic scree to reach the famous basecamp at 4,800 meters. Reward yourself with hot cocoa and panoramic views.
Push a little further past the refuge to reach the tropical snowline at 4,864 meters. Here, you can touch the ancient ice and marvel at massive glacial crevasses.
Keep your eyes peeled as you travel through the páramo. The park is a sanctuary for semi-wild horses, llamas, Andean gulls, and soaring condors.
Embrace the local Chagra (Andean cowboy) culture by riding horses across the vast, wind-swept grasslands directly beneath the towering volcano.
Experience an adrenaline-pumping descent on a mountain bike, transitioning rapidly from steep volcanic scree down to rolling green pastures.
Planning a trip to Cotopaxi requires a bit of preparation due to the extreme high altitude and unpredictable mountain weather. Here is what you need to know before booking your tour.
Most visitors opt for a full-day guided group tour departing from Quito, which lasts 8 to 12 hours. There are also private tours for personalized pacing, specialized horseback riding excursions, and multi-day trips that combine Cotopaxi with Quilotoa or Baños.
Entry to Cotopaxi National Park is completely free of charge. However, you are legally required to present a valid passport or ID to register with a park ranger at the gate. Most tours handle the logistics, but you must remember to bring your physical document.
The altitude is a major factor. The park entrance sits at 3,500 meters, and the refuge hike reaches 4,800 meters. Tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries. A moderate level of fitness is required for the refuge hike.
Do not book a Cotopaxi tour for your very first day in Ecuador. It is highly recommended to spend at least two to three days acclimatizing in Quito (2,850m) before attempting the rapid ascent to the volcano to avoid acute mountain sickness.
Most group tours offer pick-ups from central Quito zones like La Carolina, Plaza Foch, and Plaza Grande. If you are staying outside these areas (like near the airport), you may need to pay an extra fee (around $35) or meet the group at a central location.
The weather changes violently and rapidly in the high Andes. You must dress in multiple warm layers, including a wind/rainproof shell, gloves, and a warm hat. High-factor sunscreen and sunglasses are strictly required due to intense UV radiation.
While some premium or private tours include a set menu lunch, many budget group tours do not. It is wise to pack your own water, high-energy snacks, and small cash to buy hot drinks at the refuge or lunch at a highway stop.
The vast majority of tour operators offer a flexible cancellation policy. You can typically receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
| Standard Group Day Trip | Private Cotopaxi Tour | Horseback Riding Tour | Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Combo | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8 - 12 hours | 8 - 10 hours | 9 - 10 hours | 10 - 12 hours |
| Best For | Budget travelers and solo adventurers | Couples, families, and those wanting a flexible pace | Equestrian fans and off-the-beaten-path seekers | Travelers short on time wanting to see both landmarks |
| Inclusions | Transport from Quito, bilingual guide, park entry assistance | Private vehicle, guide, lunch, hotel pick-up/drop-off | Transport, guide, horse rental, riding equipment | Transport, guide, lunch, entry to both natural areas |
| Price From | $59 | $195 | $130 | $240 |
Cotopaxi National Park has strict operating hours to ensure visitor safety on the mountain.
Pro Tip: It is highly recommended to arrive right when the gates open at 8:00 a.m. The volcano's peak is usually clear first thing in the morning, whereas heavy clouds and thick fog typically roll in by late morning.
Cotopaxi is located approximately 50 kilometers south of Quito. If you aren't taking a guided tour with transport included, you have a few options:
While Cotopaxi National Park is open year-round, the weather heavily dictates the quality of your experience.
Always aim for a morning visit, as the mountain is notoriously obscured by fog by the afternoon.
Due to the rugged, high-altitude environment, Cotopaxi presents significant accessibility challenges.
Facilities inside the protected national park are basic but functional.
Cotopaxi is a protected conservation area and an active volcano, so strict rules apply:
Entry to Cotopaxi National Park is actually free of charge for everyone. However, you must bring your physical passport to register at the gate. The price of your tour covers transportation, your bilingual guide, and sometimes meals or equipment.
The hike is short (about 45 minutes) but moderately to highly difficult due to the extreme altitude and steep volcanic scree. You will be hiking from the parking lot at 4,600 meters up to 4,800 meters, which will heavily test your lungs.
Yes, it is highly recommended. You should spend at least two to three days in Quito (which sits at 2,850 meters) before your tour. The rapid ascent to the park can trigger acute mountain sickness if you are not acclimatized.
The weather can shift from hot sun to freezing rain in minutes. Wear multiple warm layers, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a warm hat, and sturdy hiking boots. You must also wear high-factor sunscreen and polarized sunglasses to protect against intense UV rays.
Yes, several tour operators offer specific horseback riding itineraries. These tours allow you to ride through the páramo grasslands alongside local Andean cowboys (Chagras) and are generally suitable for beginners.
Cotopaxi is an active volcano, but it is not currently erupting lava. It experienced minor ash emissions in 2015 and 2023. The park is heavily monitored, and automated sirens are in place to warn visitors if activity increases.
This depends on the specific tour you book. Premium and private tours typically include a set menu lunch, while budget group tours usually do not. It is always a good idea to pack your own snacks and water.
Yes, adventurous families are welcome. However, activities should be tailored to their age. Young children should stick to the flat walks around Limpiopungo Lagoon, while older kids (8+) might enjoy the horseback riding options.
Most group tours offer free pick-up from central tourist areas in Quito, specifically La Carolina, Plaza Foch, and Plaza Grande. If you are staying outside these zones, you may need to pay an extra fee (around $35) or meet at a central point.
No. Standard day tours only go as high as the glacier line (4,864 meters). Summiting the 5,897-meter peak requires a specialized multi-day climbing tour, technical ice gear, climbing permits, and a midnight ascent.
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Cotopaxi National Park is home to one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Standing at 5,897 meters above sea level, the snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi dominates the landscape of the Ecuadorian Andes. This protected area offers a direct look at the geological forces that continue to shape the mountain range. Beyond the volcano itself, the park serves as a sanctuary for a wide range of native flora and fauna. Visitors can observe species specifically adapted to the high-altitude paramo ecosystem while exploring the trails and plains surrounding the mountain's base.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This tour explores the quieter, less-visited side of Cotopaxi National Park, focusing on the traditions of the Chagras—Ecuador's local Andean cowboys. You will ride through the highlands on routes away from the main tourist crowds, led by experienced local guides. The ride is designed for all skill levels; beginners will receive full support, while experienced riders have the opportunity for a more active pace. Your booking directly contributes to a local community development project in the area. Following the ride, the group hikes toward the Cotopaxi Base Camp. Our guides use a flexible pace to help travelers manage the high altitude, resulting in a high success rate for reaching the camp. Instead of rushing to leave the park for a midday meal, we serve lunch at the Base Camp to maximize your time on the volcano. This allows you to fully experience the landscape of the world's highest active volcano without feeling hurried. This trip involves physical activity at high elevations and on uneven terrain. You should be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather and the effects of altitude. While no prior hiking or horseback riding experience is necessary, this adventure is not recommended for individuals with serious heart conditions.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Located in the Andes, Cotopaxi National Park is home to the Cotopaxi volcano, which reaches an elevation of 5,897 meters. This active stratovolcano is the central feature of the park, which contains a variety of native plants and wildlife adapted to the high-altitude environment. At the foot of the mountain, the Limpiopungo lagoon sits within the Andean Paramo. This area allows for clear views of the volcano and provides a space to observe the local ecosystem and the surrounding mountain landscape.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This 10-hour tour visits two of Ecuador’s most famous natural landmarks in a single day trip. The journey begins in the Andean highlands at Cotopaxi National Park, where you can see the active volcano and walk through the unique high-altitude páramo ecosystem. The itinerary includes several stops at scenic viewpoints specifically chosen for photography. The second part of the day is spent at the Quilotoa crater, known for its deep turquoise lagoon. You have the choice of viewing the water from the rim or taking the optional hike down to the shore. The tour is available in either private or small group formats and is designed to be accessible for all travelers without requiring special physical conditioning. Because mountain weather is unpredictable, you should bring a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen. A camera is highly recommended for the panoramic views found at both locations.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Explore the heart of the Andes and the adventure hub of Baños alongside local guides who know the region intimately. This tour focuses on a mix of cultural immersion and natural discovery, taking you into indigenous communities to learn about local traditions and out into the mountains for outdoor exploration. We move at a relaxed pace, giving you plenty of time at each stop so you can experience the surroundings without feeling rushed. As native Ecuadorians, our goal is to share the authentic character of our country with you. Please keep in mind that the order of the itinerary may change depending on weather or local operating conditions, but you will visit all the sites listed in the tour details. We will provide you with the finalized daily schedule one day before your tour departs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This day trip takes you into the heart of Cotopaxi National Park to visit one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. Reaching an elevation of 5,897 meters, the snow-capped Cotopaxi is a prominent landmark in the Ecuadorian Andes and the central feature of this excursion. As you travel through the park, you will experience the high-altitude landscapes and quiet environment of the Andean highlands. It is a straightforward way to see the region's natural geography and escape the pace of the city for a day.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
German, English, Spanish
Located 50 km from Quito, Cotopaxi National Park spans the provinces of Cotopaxi, Napo, and Pichincha. The park’s main feature is the 5,897m Cotopaxi volcano, one of the world's highest active peaks. The surrounding environment is a mix of volcanic ash, pumice, and hardy páramo plants, offering a stark landscape shaped by historic eruptions. The excursion starts with a drive to 4,500m, followed by a hike up the sandy slopes to reach the basecamp refuge at 4,864m. For those looking for more speed, the descent can be done on mountain bikes. This cycling route requires steady handling and is best suited for confident riders. We have over ten years of experience leading these tours and are a TripAdvisor Hall of Fame member and G Adventures partner.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
Located a short distance from Quito, Cotopaxi National Park offers the chance to explore one of the highest active volcanoes in South America. This tour begins in the Andean highlands with a horseback ride through the paramo. As you navigate the rolling grasslands, you can observe the specialized flora and fauna that inhabit this high-altitude ecosystem. The second half of the day focuses on a hike up the volcanic slopes to the José Ribas Refuge. Situated at 4,864 meters (15,958 feet), the refuge serves as a base for climbers and offers hikers a close look at the mountain's glacier and ash fields. The experience provides a practical look at the geography of the Andes through both riding and trekking.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This guided day trip to Cotopaxi National Park begins with pickups at the CarpeDM Operations office at 7:20 am or the Hilton Colon at 7:30 am. We head south from Quito, stopping briefly for snacks or breakfast before entering the park at 9:30 am. The morning starts at the Mariscal Sucre Interpretation Centre, where your guide will explain the local geology, flora, and fauna of the Andean highlands. At 10:30 am, we reach the 4,600m parking area to begin the hike up to the Jose Rivas Refuge. You will reach the basecamp at 4,864m around noon, and weather permitting, continue upward to the glacier at 5,000m. After the descent, we visit Limpiopungo Lake for views of the volcano's reflection. The tour concludes with a traditional local lunch at 3:00 pm before returning to Quito by 4:00 pm. For bookings, contact us on WhatsApp at +593.98.534.1575.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English
Cotopaxi National Park sits in the eastern range of the Ecuadorian Andes. At its center is the Cotopaxi volcano, the country’s second-highest peak, reaching an elevation of 5,897 meters. This stratovolcano is known for its near-perfect symmetrical shape and its Quichua name, which translates to "neck of the moon." The park is a primary feature of the "Avenue of Volcanoes," a region characterized by its high concentration of massive peaks. Along with Cotopaxi, the area includes the mountains of Sincholagua, Pasochoa, and Rumiñahui, which form the surrounding landscape of the park's high-altitude terrain.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish