Cotopaxi & Quilotoa 2Day/1Night – Tours Included

The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa 2-Day/1-Night tour promises an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the stunning landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, trek to the serene Limpiopungo Lake, and visit the José Rivas Refuge. Led by knowledgeable bilingual guides, this tour immerses travelers in the local culture and cuisine. With accommodations at the charming Chuquiragua Lodge, the journey offers a blend of natural beauty and basic comforts. Whether you’re seeking an exhilarating hike or a deeper connection with the Ecuadorian Andes, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

About Your Stay

• 2-day/1-night tour that includes guided hikes in Cotopaxi National Park and a visit to the Quilotoa crater, with pickup from Quito at 6:00 am.
• Accommodation at Chuquiragua Lodge, a charming but basic lodge with limited amenities and wifi.
• Hikes reach up to 4,800 meters in altitude, requiring proper preparation and potentially the use of altitude medication.
• Guided by knowledgeable and engaging guides, with opportunities to learn about local culture and cuisine.
• Overall positive reviews with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, but group dynamics may be affected by joining different groups.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This 2-day/1-night tour to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa starts at 6:00 am with hotel pick-up in Quito.

It includes a bilingual guide, guided hikes in Cotopaxi National Park, a trek to Limpiopungo Lake, a visit to the Interpretation Center Mariscal Sucre, and a hike to the José Rivas Refuge.

The tour is limited to 15 travelers and doesn’t include meals. Priced from $149 per person, it’s non-refundable.

Capped at 15 travelers, this $149 per person tour is non-refundable and does not include meals.

Highlights include stunning scenery and opportunities to learn about indigenous culture and local cuisine.

Accommodation and Amenities

Accommodation at the Chuquiragua Lodge is described as charming but not luxury. Rooms may be dormitory-style unless upgraded to a private room upon request.

The lodge provides meals, but WiFi may be limited, and some amenities are basic. Travelers should be aware that the accommodation isn’t high-end or opulent, but it serves the needs of those embarking on this adventurous tour.

While the accommodation may not be the highlight, it offers a comfortable base from which to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa.

Physical Challenges and Preparation

Given the tour involves significant physical activity, including hikes at high altitudes up to 4,800 meters, travelers should come prepared.

The tour operator recommends bringing proper clothing, hiking sticks, and boots. Altitude medication is advisable for those not acclimatized.

Horses can be hired for $20 USD to return from Quilotoa’s edge if the hike becomes too challenging.

Travelers should be aware of the physical demands and ensure they’ve the necessary gear and fitness level to participate fully in the activities.

Proper preparation will enhance the overall tour experience.

Tour Experience and Guides

What do travelers say about the tour experience and guides? Feedback suggests the guides receive high praise for their knowledge and engagement. Mentions include Daniel and Erika as standout guides. However, some travelers note the tour involves joining different groups, which may impact group dynamics.

| Aspect | Positive | Negative |

| — | — | — |

| Guides | Knowledgeable, engaging | Group dynamics affected by joining groups |

| Local Culture | Opportunities to learn | N/A |

| Cuisine | Opportunity to try local cuisine | N/A |

Reviews and Recommendations

The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Tours have received positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 9 reviews.

Travelers have highlighted the stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, like Daniel and Erika. However, some have complained about the early pick-up times and lack of clear communication regarding accommodation.

The tours involve significant physical activity, including hikes at high altitudes, so they’re recommended for those who enjoy challenges and beautiful landscapes.

Despite a few issues, the tours seem to offer a memorable experience exploring Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa.

What to Expect From the Tour

The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Tours offer a comprehensive 2-day/1-night experience, starting with an early 6:00 am pickup from Quito. Travelers will enjoy guided hikes in Cotopaxi National Park, a trek to Limpiopungo Lake, and a visit to the Interpretation Center Mariscal Sucre. The tour also includes a hike to the José Rivas Refuge, with the option to ride horses back from Quilotoa’s edge for $20 USD. Accommodation is at the charming Chuquiragua Lodge, where amenities may be basic. Proper preparation, including suitable clothing and altitude medication, is recommended for this tour’s physical challenges.

| Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Cotopaxi National Park | Guided hikes and exploration |

| Limpiopungo Lake | Trekking to this scenic lake |

| Interpretation Center | Visit to learn about the area |

| José Rivas Refuge | Hike to this high-altitude shelter |

Preparing for the Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Adventure

Given the tour’s significant physical demands, it’s crucial for travelers to properly prepare for the Cotopaxi and Quilotoa adventure.

The hikes can reach altitudes up to 4,800 meters, so acclimating to the elevation is essential. Bringing appropriate clothing, hiking boots, and trekking poles is recommended. Altitude sickness medication may also be necessary for those not yet acclimatized.

For the trek to Quilotoa’s edge, horses can be hired for the descent at an additional cost of $20 USD.

Proper preparation ensures travelers can fully enjoy the stunning scenery and cultural experiences during this challenging yet rewarding tour.

Questions About Your Stay

Is There an Option to Skip the Hike to Quilotoa’s Edge?

The tour does not offer an option to skip the hike to Quilotoa’s edge. The itinerary includes a trek to the crater lake, which is a key highlight of the 2-day/1-night excursion.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Snacks for the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and snacks for the tour. The tour overview indicates that meals are not included, so bringing personal provisions is allowed and may be a good idea, especially for those with dietary restrictions.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Hikes?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the hikes. The tour guides will point out the designated restroom stops along the way, allowing travelers to take breaks and use the facilities as needed during the physically challenging portions of the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour is non-refundable. According to the tour overview, the price of $149.00 per person is non-refundable, so travelers should be aware of this policy when booking the 2-day/1-night Cotopaxi and Quilotoa tour.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement for the Tour to Operate?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers, but there is no minimum group size requirement. The tour will operate with any number of participants up to the maximum capacity.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa 2-Day/1-Night tour offers an immersive adventure in Ecuador’s stunning highlands. Travelers can expect guided hikes, cultural insights, and basic yet comfortable accommodations. While the tour doesn’t include meals, the knowledgeable bilingual guides ensure a memorable journey for up to 15 participants. With proper preparation, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the majestic Cotopaxi National Park and the breathtaking Quilotoa crater.