Cotopaxi & Quilotoa With Optional Hotel Pick-Up & Drop-Off

Exploring the stunning landscapes of Ecuador has never been easier. The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa tour offers a seamless experience, with optional hotel pick-up and drop-off for added convenience. Enjoy the majestic beauty of Cotopaxi National Park, where the towering volcano and serene lagoon await. Then, discover the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake, renowned for its vibrant turquoise hues. This full-day adventure promises an unforgettable journey, complete with knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to explore the local culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, this tour is sure to leave you in awe.

Key Points

1. Comprehensive full-day tour combining visits to Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon, two of Ecuador’s top natural attractions.
2. Comfortable coach journey from Quito with stops to help mitigate altitude sickness, including coca leaf tea.
3. Opportunity to explore Cotopaxi National Park, hike to the base of the active volcano, and admire the stunning landscapes.
4. Captivating views of the turquoise Quilotoa crater lake, local markets, and immersion in the Kichwa community’s cultural heritage.
5. Tour operator offers a satisfaction guarantee, allowing customers to repeat the tour or receive a refund if weather conditions are unfavorable.

Overview of the Tour

This tour offers the opportunity to experience two of Ecuador’s top natural attractions – Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon.

It’s an ideal option for those with limited time, combining nature, history, and shopping in a full-day excursion from Quito.

The tour includes visits to Cotopaxi National Park, Limpiopungo Lagoon, and the turquoise caldera lagoon of Quilotoa.

The tour includes visits to Cotopaxi National Park, Limpiopungo Lagoon, and the turquoise caldera lagoon of Quilotoa.

Travelers can expect a comfortable coach ride, stops to mitigate altitude sickness, and the chance to explore local markets.

If weather is unfavorable, the tour can be repeated at no extra cost, ensuring guests get to see these stunning natural wonders.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour begins with a comfortable coach or bus journey from Quito, traveling south along the Pan-American Highway. Along the way, guests stop for coca leaf tea to help mitigate altitude sickness.

Next, they visit Limpiopungo Lagoon, a serene body of water at the base of Cotopaxi, an active volcano towering at 19,000 feet. If weather permits, guests may even walk to the volcano itself.

The tour then explores local markets and enjoys breathtaking views of Quilotoa Volcano‘s turquoise crater lake. If weather is unfavorable, guests can repeat the tour at no additional cost.

Cotopaxi National Park and Limpiopungo Lagoon

After departing Quito, the tour makes its first stop at Cotopaxi National Park, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.

Weather permitting, guests may have the opportunity to walk to the base of this active volcano, reaching an impressive elevation of 19,000 feet (5,900 meters).

Along the way, they’ll encounter:

• Stunning views of the snow-capped peak and surrounding landscapes

• The tranquil Limpiopungo Lagoon, where wildlife like Andean gulls and wild horses can be spotted

• The chance to learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and geological history from the knowledgeable guide

Exploring Quilotoa Volcano’s Crater Lake

From Cotopaxi National Park, the tour proceeds to the stunning Quilotoa Volcano, where guests explore the captivating turquoise caldera lake.

Situated at an elevation of 12,841 feet (3,914 meters), the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater offers panoramic views. Visitors can hike down into the crater and witness the vibrant blue-green hues of the lake.

Local markets provide opportunities to browse handicrafts and interact with the indigenous Kichwa community.

The tour allows time to savor the stunning vistas and take in the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable volcanic landscape.

Weather Considerations and Tour Guarantee

Weather can impact the tour experience, but the operator provides a guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.

If unfavorable weather prevents a visit to Cotopaxi or Quilotoa, guests can:

• Repeat the entire tour at no additional cost

• Receive a full refund

• Reschedule the tour for another day

This policy gives travelers peace of mind, allowing them to fully enjoy the highlights of the tour regardless of the weather conditions.

The operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction is a key selling point for this Cotopaxi and Quilotoa adventure.

Meeting Point and Pickup Details

The tour offers optional hotel pick-up and drop-off at selected hotels in Quito.

The meeting point is at the NH Collection Quito Royal at 7:00 am. Travelers will depart from this location on the comfortable coach or bus.

The tour departs at 7:00 am from the NH Collection Quito Royal, where travelers board a comfortable coach or bus.

At the end of the day, the tour concludes back at the same meeting point.

This convenient pickup and drop-off option allows guests to easily access the tour without needing to make their own way to the starting location.

The tour is designed to be hassle-free and accessible for participants.

Tour Inclusions and Traveler Information

The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Tour includes a professional guide, lunch, drinks, and gratuities.

However, some additional traveler information is important to know:

• Maximum group size is 30 people, so travelers should book early to secure their spot.

• Physical fitness at a moderate level is recommended, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

• Confirmation of passport details is required at the time of booking.

Guest Reviews and Feedback

With 170 reviews and an overall rating of 4.5 stars, travelers have provided largely positive feedback on the Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Tour.

Guests praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning natural scenery. However, some common concerns include the long bus rides and limited time at certain locations.

Specific guides, like Irene and Andrea, were singled out for their expertise and hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but they are not included in the tour price. The tour provides lunch and beverages, so bringing extra is optional.

Are Pets Allowed to Accompany Me on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is focused on experiencing Ecuador’s natural attractions, and having pets would not be practical or safe for the group. Guests should leave their pets at home for this day trip.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer discounts for children or seniors. All travelers pay the same rate. However, the operator notes the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the moderate physical fitness required.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Souvenirs Shopping?

The tour allocates approximately 1 hour for shopping at local markets near Quilotoa Lagoon. Travelers can browse handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs during this time. However, the overall duration at Quilotoa is limited, so shopping time may be brief.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, you can extend the tour to include additional activities. The tour operator offers optional add-ons, such as hiking trails or cultural experiences, that can be booked in advance to customize the itinerary to your preferences.

The Sum Up

The Cotopaxi & Quilotoa tour offers a breathtaking exploration of Ecuador’s natural wonders. With convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park and the vibrant Quilotoa crater lake. This full-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience, complete with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, ensuring a memorable journey through Ecuador’s captivating destinations.