National Park tours from Quito deliver exceptional value for nature enthusiasts. The standout is Cotopaxi National Park, just two hours south, offering full-day excursions that pack in volcano views, valley walks, and glacier visits. I’m particularly fond of the horseback adventures here – they’re well-paced and perfect for both beginners and experienced riders.
Multi-day trips combining Cotopaxi with the stunning Quilotoa crater lake are worth every penny. For the adventurous, Cayambe Coca National Park provides fantastic hiking, while Cajas National Park showcases high-altitude lakes and unique páramo landscapes. The guided Amazon tours, though requiring more travel time, reveal Ecuador’s remarkable wildlife.
These are our favorite national park tours, ranked by experience and value.
Key Points
- Full-day tours in Cotopaxi National Park offer highlights like exploring the volcano, valley, and glacier, with a 95% traveler recommendation rate.
- Horseback riding adventures in Cotopaxi National Park provide a combination of scenic views and a 2-hour shared ride, with a 94% recommendation rate.
- Hiking and biking tours through Ecuador’s natural landscapes are led by knowledgeable bilingual guides, with a 91% positive feedback rate.
- Multi-day tours offer a 2-day journey exploring Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon, with good physical condition required for hiking and biking activities.
- Additional nature tours include visits to Papallacta Pass, Cajas National Park, and Limoncocha Biological Reserve, providing diverse ecosystems and experiences.
Full-Day Tour Cotopaxi National Park – All Included From Quito
Setting out on a Full-Day Tour of Cotopaxi National Park from Quito, travelers explore the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, the serene Limpiopungo Valley, and the mesmerizing Cotopaxi Glacier.
With 95% of travelers recommending this tour, it includes national park fees, a certified English-speaking guide, and transportation by private vehicle.
Hikers can trek to the 15,800-foot Padre Rivas Refuge and even visit the 16,500-foot glacier, though a moderate fitness level is required.
The tour provides free hotel pick-up and drop-off, and a vegetarian lunch option is available upon request.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later policy, this Cotopaxi adventure offers an unforgettable experience.
Read our full review: Full-Day Tour Cotopaxi National Park – All Included From Quito Review
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Horseback Riding and Cotopaxi National Park Day Trip
This full-day excursion from Quito offers travelers the opportunity to explore Cotopaxi National Park through an exciting combination of horseback riding and sightseeing.
After a hotel pickup, the tour takes guests to the charming El Pedregal hacienda for a traditional drink before embarking on a shared 2-hour horseback ride through remote trails.
Visitors then enjoy a boxed lunch before driving up to 15,000 feet in Cotopaxi National Park and taking a short hike around a scenic lagoon.
With 94% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises stunning views of ancient lava flows and wild horses, along with an informative and friendly guide experience.
Read our full review: Horseback Riding and Cotopaxi National Park Day Trip Review
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Cotopaxi National Park Hiking & Biking Tour
Cotopaxi National Park Hiking & Biking Tour offers travelers an exhilarating way to explore Ecuador’s natural wonders.
With a 91% recommendation rate from past participants, this tour promises encounters with active volcanoes, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Led by knowledgeable bilingual guides, the tour includes hiking and biking experiences suitable for moderately fit travelers.
While the tour generally receives positive reviews, some guests have noted logistical issues and communication problems.
The tour provides an immersive outdoor adventure, with round-trip transportation, meals, and optional bike rentals included.
However, travelers with back problems or accessibility needs should be aware of the tour’s limitations.
Read our full review: Cotopaxi National Park Hiking & Biking Tour Review
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Cotopaxi Full Day Tour – All Included – Guided Hike and National Park Entrance
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Cotopaxi National Park can embark on the Cotopaxi Full Day Tour. Priced from $59 per person, this guided excursion takes visitors on a journey through key landmarks, including the Chuquiragua Lodge, Jose Rivas Refuge, Limpiopungo Lagoon, and the Interpretation Center Mariscal Sucre.
Highlights include a guided hike and a trek around Limpiopungo Lake. With a team of bilingual guides, the tour offers hotel pickup, meals, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While reviews are mixed, many praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Accessibility is limited, and group sizes can reach up to 100 travelers.
Read our full review: Cotopaxi Full Day Tour – All Included – Guided Hike and National Park Entrance Review
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2-Day Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon: Biking and Hiking
Adventurous explorers can enjoy a captivating 2-day journey from Quito, Ecuador, as they discover the natural wonders of Cotopaxi National Park and the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon.
The tour’s highlights include hiking to the summit of Cotopaxi Volcano, downhill biking, and trekking to the shores of the Quilotoa Lagoon.
Travelers must be in good physical condition to participate in these activities. The tour includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and equipment.
While the itinerary may be modified due to weather or other circumstances, travelers can expect a well-organized and immersive experience with 24/7 assistance in multiple languages.
Booking early is recommended, as the maximum group size is 15 travelers.
Read our full review: 2-Day Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon: Biking and Hiking Review
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Papallacta Pass – Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve
For those seeking to further explore Ecuador’s natural wonders, the private tour to Papallacta Pass and Guango Cloud Forest Reserve offers a captivating opportunity.
Highlights include spectacular views of the Antisana Volcano and the chance to spot the iconic Andean condor. Bird-lovers will delight in the diverse avifauna of Guango Reserve.
The tour includes lunch at the Papallacta Hot Spring Complex and ample time to soak in the natural hot springs.
With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, and all activities covered, this flexible tour provides an immersive experience in the region’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Priced from $245 per person, it’s an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts visiting Quito.
Read our full review: Papallacta Pass – Cayambe Coca National Park & Guango Cloud Forest Reserve Review
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Excursion to Cotopaxi National Park and Limpiopungo Lagoon
The excursion to Cotopaxi National Park and Limpiopungo Lagoon offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Ecuador’s central highlands.
This private tour, led by a professional guide, takes travelers to the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and the serene Limpiopungo Lagoon.
Pickup is available at hotels within Quito’s urban perimeter, and the tour includes entrance fees and round-trip transportation.
Guests should dress warmly and prepare for variable weather conditions, as the tour operates year-round.
With a 5-star rating based on a single review, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure in one of Ecuador’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Read our full review: Excursion to Cotopaxi National Park and Limpiopungo Lagoon Review
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Excursion Day Cajas National Park From Guayaquil
Departing from Guayaquil, this excursion takes visitors on a captivating journey to explore the natural wonders of Cajas National Park.
Operated by Perfect Destiny, the day-long tour starts at 6:30 am and is priced from $294.00 per person, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers.
The package includes transportation, a multilingual guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, and gratuities.
Travelers have the option to meet at a designated point or be picked up from their hotel.
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants are advised to dress appropriately.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, this excursion offers a flexible and memorable experience in Ecuador’s stunning natural landscape.
Read our full review: Excursion Day Cajas National Park From Guayaquil Review
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Limoncocha Biological Reserve & Yasuní National Park / Tropical Andes to Amazon
This immersive private tour takes travelers on an unforgettable journey from the Tropical Andes to the heart of the Amazon, exploring the biodiverse Limoncocha Biological Reserve and the iconic Yasuní National Park.
Led by Neotropical Nature and Birding Trips, the tour includes private transportation, meals, and tips, with a flexible pickup from your location.
With moderate physical fitness required, the tour promises an intimate experience, as only your group will participate.
Based on excellent reviews, this tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Ecuador’s natural wonders, from the mountains to the rainforest.
Read our full review: Limoncocha Biological Reserve & Yasuní National Park / Tropical Andes to Amazon Review
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Sum Up
Quito’s national parks offer a variety of exciting tours for visitors. From the iconic Cotopaxi National Park to the lush Cajas National Park, there’s something for all. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, or horseback riding, these tours provide an opportunity to explore Ecuador’s stunning natural landscapes. With knowledgeable guides and inclusive packages, these tours make it easy to discover the best of Quito’s national parks.