Semi-Private Tour: Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Full Day Tour

The Semi-Private Tour: Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Full Day Tour provides an opportunity to explore Ecuador’s stunning landscapes. Travelers can look forward to visiting the majestic Cotopaxi volcano and the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, blending stunning natural wonders with insights into the region’s rich geology and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this tour is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more of Ecuador’s hidden gems.

Good To Know

• Explore the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and the stunning Quilotoa crater lake on a full-day semi-private tour with hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional guide, and lunch included.
• The tour is rated 5 stars and suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, with a maximum group size of 30 for a personalized experience.
• Visit the Cotopaxi Interpretation Center, hike to the volcano’s base, and enjoy the dramatic landscapes and wildlife of the high-altitude environment.
• Discover the breathtaking views of the Quilotoa crater lake, with an opportunity to hike around the rim and learn about the geological history and indigenous Quechua culture.
• The tour starts at 6:58 am, with pickup from specific hotels or the NH Collection Hotel, and concludes back at the initial meeting point.

Tour Overview

This is a semi-private tour that takes visitors to explore the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake, both located near Quito, Ecuador.

The tour is rated 5 stars based on one review and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, gratuities, and lunch and drinks.

Pickup times are scheduled for specific hotels, or visitors can meet at the NH Collection Hotel if their hotel isn’t listed.

The tour starts at 6:58 am and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infants can sit on laps.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required for this full-day adventure.

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

A professional guide accompanies the group, providing expert commentary and insights throughout the tour. Gratuities for the guide are included, so there’s no need to worry about tipping.

Lunch and drinks are also provided, keeping travelers fueled and hydrated as they explore the stunning landscapes.

This semi-private tour offers a personalized experience, with a maximum group size of 30 people, allowing for more attentive service and opportunities for interaction with the guide.

Pickup Information

Pickup for the tour is available from specific hotels or at the NH Collection Hotel (Luis Cordero 444, Quito) if a hotel isn’t specified during booking.

The pickup schedule runs on Tuesdays and Sundays, starting at 6:30 am from the Sheraton, followed by other hotels like Dann Carlton, Le Parc, and Wyndham Garden.

The tour then moves on to KAIA, Swissotel, and NH Collection, before reaching J.W. Marriott, Holiday Inn, and other hotels.

Guests must specify their hotel during booking; otherwise, the default pickup location will be the NH Collection Hotel.

Tour Details

The tour starts at 06:58 am, with a maximum of 30 travelers.

The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

The tour ends back at the meeting point.

Key details:

1. Start time: 06:58 am
2. Maximum travelers: 30
3. Not wheelchair accessible
4. Near public transportation

Additional Information

Travelers typically receive confirmation at the time of booking.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, which is typically the NH Collection Hotel.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves some moderate physical activity.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 30 travelers.

Exploring Cotopaxi

Visitors embark on the day’s expedition with a drive through the breathtaking Andes mountain range, where the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, comes into view.

The group will:

1. Hike to the volcano’s base, marveling at the stunning glacier-capped peak.
2. Explore the Interpretation Center, learning about the volcano’s geology, history, and ecological significance.
3. Witness the dramatic landscapes and wildlife that thrive in this high-altitude environment.
4. Savor a delightful lunch while surrounded by the awe-inspiring natural beauty.

The Cotopaxi segment provides an up-close encounter with one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural wonders.

Discovering Quilotoa

After exploring the grandeur of Cotopaxi, the tour continues its journey to the stunning Quilotoa crater lake.

Situated at an impressive elevation of 3,900 meters, Quilotoa is a picturesque volcanic caldera filled with a brilliant turquoise-colored lake.

Visitors can take a leisurely hike around the rim, offering breathtaking views of the lake’s serene waters and the surrounding Andes mountains.

The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the volcano’s geological history and the indigenous Quechua culture that has thrived in this region for centuries.

Whether strolling along the crater’s edge or gazing out at the tranquil lake, the Quilotoa experience promises to be a highlight of the day’s adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Tour?

For this tour, one should bring warm layers, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water. Participants should also bring any necessary personal items and be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends approximately 2-3 hours at Cotopaxi National Park and 1-2 hours at the Quilotoa Crater. The exact durations may vary depending on the group’s pace and interests during the day.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

This tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Infants are allowed but must sit on laps. The tour is suitable for guests of all ages, though a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-set semi-private tour. However, travelers can specify their hotel during booking to arrange the pickup schedule accordingly. The tour follows a fixed itinerary for all participants.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel the tour for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Refunds are not available for no-shows or last-minute cancellations.

The Sum Up

This semi-private tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore Ecuador’s natural wonders. Travelers will witness the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, hike to its base, and enjoy the stunning Quilotoa crater lake. With professional guidance, seamless transportation, and inclusive amenities, this tour provides a comfortable and enriching experience for up to 30 guests, allowing them to fully appreciate the region’s remarkable geology and culture.