Cotopaxi National Reserve Bike and Hike Day-Trip

Cotopaxi National Reserve is a stunning natural wonder that beckons adventurous travelers. The Bike and Hike Day-Trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore this volcanic landscape, from the serene Limpiopungo Lake to the exhilarating downhill mountain biking. With an expert bilingual guide leading the way, participants can enjoy the Andean region’s beauty and culture, making memories that will last a lifetime. But the true highlight? Discovering why this day-trip has captivated the hearts of so many.

Key Points

• The Cotopaxi National Reserve day-trip features a mix of hiking and mountain biking through the scenic "Avenue of the Volcanoes" in Ecuador.

• The itinerary includes an Andean-style breakfast, a hike to Limpiopungo Lake, and a downhill mountain biking experience, all with the guidance of a bilingual professional.

• The tour is designed for active travelers and has a maximum group size of 12 participants, ensuring a small-group experience.

• Pickup and transportation are provided from a meeting point in Quito, and the tour concludes back at the original location.

• Participants are advised to bring appropriate gear and equipment, as the tour is not wheelchair accessible and may be affected by weather conditions.

Overview

This day-trip to Cotopaxi National Reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning volcanic landscapes of Ecuador.

Located just outside Quito, the excursion includes roundtrip hiking and biking through the "Avenue of the Volcanoes."

Travelers can expect an Andean-style breakfast, a hike to the scenic Limpiopungo Lake, and thrilling downhill mountain biking.

Delight in an Andean-style breakfast, a scenic hike to Limpiopungo Lake, and exhilarating downhill mountain biking.

The tour accommodates up to 12 participants, providing a small-group experience.

While the reviews are mixed, the itinerary promises an adventurous and immersive journey into Ecuador’s remarkable natural wonders, catering to active travelers seeking an exciting day outdoors.

Itinerary and Activities

The day-trip begins with a drive along the Pan-American Highway, winding through the stunning "Avenue of the Volcanoes" towards Cotopaxi National Park.

Travelers enjoy an Andean-style breakfast before embarking on a hike to Limpiopungo Lake. Here, they explore the park’s unique geology, flora, and fauna.

After the hike, the group transitions to mountain biking, coasting downhill through the volcanic landscapes.

The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Throughout the day, a bilingual guide leads the way, providing insights and ensuring the safety of the hikers and bikers.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the Cotopaxi National Reserve Day-Trip is Juan León Mera 24, Quito 170143, Ecuador, at the Magic Bean Restaurant.

The tour starts at 6:30 am, with pickup at 6:50 am. Participants will be transported to and from the meeting point for the duration of the day trip.

The tour ends back at the original meeting location. Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours.

This day-long adventure offers roundtrip hiking and biking from Quito through the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes in Cotopaxi National Park.

Inclusions and Recommendations

The Cotopaxi National Reserve Day-Trip includes a bilingual professional guide, transport to and from Quito and Cotopaxi National Park, as well as lunch and breakfast.

A day-trip to Cotopaxi National Reserve with a bilingual guide, transportation, and meals included to enhance the overall experience.

Participants will also receive basic biking equipment like bikes and helmets.

To prepare for the adventure, the tour company recommends bringing warm clothes, a waterproof jacket, gloves, sunscreen, a hat, hiking shoes, extra socks and pants, sunglasses, and a water bottle. Trekking poles are also suggested.

Travelers should keep in mind the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.

Additional Information and Reviews

Although the Cotopaxi National Reserve Day-Trip isn’t wheelchair accessible, it may still be enjoyed by those with moderate physical fitness levels.

Travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to join the tour.

The experience is subject to weather conditions, and no refunds are provided for cancellations due to force majeure.

Feedback from previous participants indicates issues with the tour guide’s knowledge and equipment safety, particularly concerning bike maintenance and clothing recommendations for the weather conditions.

However, positive remarks were noted about the quality of the food provided during the tour.

• Not wheelchair accessible

• Not recommended for certain health conditions

• Subject to weather conditions; no refunds for cancellations

• Issues with tour guide knowledge and equipment safety

• Positive feedback on food quality

Pricing and Availability

How much does the Cotopaxi National Reserve Day-Trip cost? The package starts at $83.00 per person.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Quito, an Andean-style breakfast, bilingual guide, basic biking equipment, and lunch. However, the review feedback indicates some issues with the quality and safety of the equipment provided.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation, breakfast, a bilingual guide, biking equipment, and lunch, though the equipment quality has received some negative feedback.

Group size is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, so it’s recommended to book in advance. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with medical conditions or limited mobility.

Refunds aren’t available for cancellations due to weather or force majeure.

What to Expect

Travelers can expect a full day of adventure and exploration on the Cotopaxi National Reserve Bike and Hike Day-Trip.

The itinerary includes:

• Driving along the scenic Pan-American Highway through the "Avenue of the Volcanoes"

• Enjoying an Andean-style breakfast before embarking on the activities

• Hiking to the stunning Limpiopungo Lake to witness the area’s unique geology, flora, and fauna

• Exhilarating mountain biking downhill through the volcanic landscapes

• Exploring the reserve in a small group of no more than 12 travelers

The tour includes necessary equipment and a bilingual guide, though moderate fitness is required.

Weather conditions may impact the schedule.

Sum Up

The Cotopaxi National Reserve Bike and Hike Day-Trip offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure. Participants can enjoy the breathtaking volcanic landscapes, enjoy an Andean-style breakfast, hike to Limpiopungo Lake, and embark on thrilling downhill mountain biking. With a small group size and a bilingual guide, this trip is perfect for active travelers seeking a blend of exploration and physical activity in Ecuador’s stunning natural beauty.