2 Volcanoes Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Lagoon in 1 Day

Exploring the wonders of Ecuador’s volcanic landscape in a single day is a tempting prospect for adventurous travelers. The "2 Volcanoes Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Lagoon in 1 Day" tour promises an unforgettable experience, combining the awe-inspiring grandeur of Cotopaxi National Park with the mesmerizing beauty of the Quilotoa Lagoon. Led by expert naturalist guides, this excursion offers the chance to take in the rich indigenous culture, savor traditional cuisines, and capture breathtaking photographs. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an extraordinary day in Ecuador, this tour may just be the perfect fit.

Good To Know

• This day-long excursion offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to visit both the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon in Ecuador.
• The tour includes hiking, kayaking, and photography at the high-altitude sites, providing insights into the region’s landscapes and indigenous culture.
• Participants can enjoy authentic Coca tea to alleviate altitude discomfort and witness the ever-changing colors of the Quilotoa Lagoon.
• The tour is led by an English-speaking Naturalist Guide-Chauffeur and includes lunch and travel insurance for a worry-free experience.
• Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not suitable for those with serious medical conditions or limited mobility.

Overview of the Tour

This day-long nature-lover’s excursion allows visitors to discover the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon.

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, the tour features a small group size for personalized attention from an English-speaking Naturalist Guide-Chauffeur.

Along with lunch and travel insurance, the tour offers the chance to explore these natural wonders.

Cotopaxi National Park and the vibrant Quilotoa Lagoon, situated at high elevations, provide opportunities to take in Ecuador’s stunning landscapes and learn about its indigenous communities and culture.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 06:30 am from Quito, located at an elevation of 2890m (9000 ft) above sea level.

From there, the group will drive 77km south to Cotopaxi National Park. After arriving, they’ll visit Limpiopungo Lagoon at 3900m (12795ft) and hike around it for an hour, spotting local wildlife.

Following a 2-hour drive, the tour reaches Quilotoa Lagoon at 3800m (12467 ft). Here, visitors can experience the lagoon’s changing colors depending on the weather and choose from activities like hiking, kayaking, photography, or relaxing at the lookout points.

Experiencing Cotopaxi National Park

Upon arriving at Cotopaxi National Park, visitors will first stop at the Limpiopungo Lagoon situated at an elevation of 3900m (12795ft).

This is an ideal spot for a one-hour hike, where travelers can observe the diverse local wildlife. To help alleviate any discomfort from the high altitude, the group will be offered authentic Coca tea, a traditional Andean beverage.

After the hike, the tour will continue towards the iconic Cotopaxi volcano, the second-highest active volcano in Ecuador.

At the volcano’s base, guests will have the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views and capture stunning photographs before heading to the next destination, the Quilotoa Lagoon.

Exploring Quilotoa Lagoon

After exploring the natural wonders of Cotopaxi National Park, the tour continues its journey towards the captivating Quilotoa Lagoon.

Nestled at an elevation of 3,800 meters (12,467 feet), this stunning caldera lake offers visitors a breathtaking sight.

Visitors can:

1. Hike around the lagoon’s rim, taking in the ever-changing colors of the water, which range from deep blue to emerald green depending on the weather.
2. Kayak on the serene waters, offering a unique perspective of the lake and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
3. Relax at one of the designated lookout points, snapping photographs and soaking in the natural beauty of this remarkable natural wonder.

Cultural Immersion and Insights

Beyond the natural wonders of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, this tour also provides a unique culture experience.

Travelers will learn about Ecuador’s indigenous communities and have the opportunity to visit an artisan gallery near Quilotoa. This allows them to appreciate the local craftsmanship and vibrant culture.

The tour also includes the chance to sample traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, such as the iconic roasted guinea pig.

These cultural insights complement the breathtaking scenery, offering a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just sightseeing.

Whether it’s interacting with local artisans or savoring regional delicacies, this tour promises an enriching cultural exploration.

Activity Options

Visitors can partake in a variety of activities at both Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon.

At Cotopaxi, travelers can:

1. Enjoy a soothing cup of coca tea to alleviate altitude discomfort as they admire the stunning views.
2. Set out on a one-hour hike around the Limpiopungo Lagoon, spotting local wildlife along the way.
3. Relish the opportunity to capture breathtaking photographs of the majestic volcano and its surroundings.

At Quilotoa Lagoon, options include hiking, kayaking, and simply relaxing at the various lookout points to witness the changing colors of the crater lake throughout the day.

Important Considerations

When considering this tour, potential participants should keep in mind that it’s not accessible for wheelchair users and is generally unsuitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the itinerary includes hiking at high altitudes. While altitude sickness can be alleviated with coca tea, those prone to such reactions should exercise caution.

The tour is non-refundable upon cancellation, so participants should ensure their availability and ability to participate fully.

Despite these considerations, the tour offers an opportunity to explore two of Ecuador’s iconic natural wonders, Cotopaxi volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon, in a single day.

Traveler Reviews and Pricing

With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from six travelers, this one-day tour of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa Lagoon appears to be a popular choice among nature enthusiasts.

Priced from $170.00 per person, the tour’s cost varies based on group size, though it’s important to note that the price is non-refundable upon cancellation.

The tour includes:

1. An English-speaking Naturalist Guide-Chauffeur to provide personalized attention.
2. Lunch and travel insurance to ensure a worry-free experience.
3. A moderate level of physical fitness required, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a delicious lunch is already included in the tour price, so bringing additional items is optional.

What Should I Pack for This Day Trip?

When packing for this day trip, travelers should bring warm layers, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, snacks, and a reusable water bottle. It’s also a good idea to bring a camera to capture the stunning natural scenery.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour company does offer an option to extend the tour duration. Travelers can request a longer itinerary that includes additional activities or more time to explore the sites at their own pace.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any strict age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for very young children. Participants should have a moderate fitness level to handle the hiking and high altitude conditions.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

The tour operator offers some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences, though the core activities at Cotopaxi and Quilotoa are typically included. You’ll need to discuss any changes with the operator directly.

The Sum Up

This day-long excursion offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore two of Ecuador’s natural wonders. Combining the majestic Cotopaxi volcano and the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, the tour promises breathtaking scenery, culture, and unforgettable memories. Led by an expert guide, travelers can enjoy hiking, photography, and traditional cuisine, making this tour a must-do for anyone seeking to experience the true essence of Ecuador’s rich natural and cultural heritage.