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Cotopaxi Volcano Quest!

Quito, EC
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (104 reviews)
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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

    Highlights

    • Exclusive hotel pick-up and drop-off services
    • Learn about the area, volcanoes, vegetation, and animals
    • Experience the beauty of the Limpiopungo Lake
    • Indulge in a hearty lunch at a traditional local restaurant
    • Duration 8 hours
    • Small group tour
    • Lunch included
    • Expert guide
    • Transport included

    Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with CarpeDM Adventures and hike up the Cotopaxi Volcano in Cotopaxi National Park. This active volcano stands at a staggering 5,897 meters, offering an exhilarating challenge for adventure seekers. With a decade of excellence on TripAdvisor, CarpeDM Adventures ensures a seamless and unforgettable journey. Start your day just outside their CarpeDM Operations or at the Hilton Colon Hotel, and then head to the park, making a stop to pick up snacks or breakfast along the way. Explore the Mariscal Sucre Interpretation Centre to learn about the area's volcanoes, vegetation, and animals. Begin your ascent to the Basecamp at 4,600 meters, reaching the refuge at 4,864 meters by midday. Enjoy lunch at a traditional local restaurant and visit the beautiful Limpiopungo lake before returning to Quito. Don't miss out on this epic adventure - contact CarpeDM Adventures on WhatsApp at +593.98.534.1575 and let the thrill begin!

    At a Glance

    • Free cancellation
    • 8 hours
    • Instant Confirmation
    • Available in English
    • Mobile voucher
    • Small Group tour
    • Guided
    • Family friendly

    Featured Reviews

    Excellent (104 reviews)
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    Viator
    H5850VDjessicaj
    Aug 24
    Felipe was great!! So informative and helpful! Was able to answer all extra questions. Was on time, in schedule. It was a bit chilly with extra wind for the hike to base camp. Loved the surprise at the end at the restaurant! 😉
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    Viator
    dianatF4114QH
    Apr 24
    The views are amazing. We had concerns about the elevation, but finally decided to go. Dorian was very helpful as we changed our plans several times. Our guide Lincoln is very professional, also very helpful and flexible. He even offered to take us to the rose plantation after we did the cotapaxi. What an unforgettable experience!
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    Viator
    juliushjohansen
    Apr 24
    We had an amazing daytrip to Cotopaxi Vulcano with our guide Alejandro. He was super nice and knowledgeable. He told us everything about his beautiful country and showed us it's fantastic nature. Would highly recommend this trip and Alejandro as a guide to anyone who wants to visit the stunning vulcano!
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    Viator
    Sherpa270394
    Apr 24
    Really appreciated the valuable knowledge of the guide and the friendly atmosphere he provided. I also thoroughly enjoyed the pace of the hike and the fantastic views
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    Viator
    Frugaldave
    Jan 24
    My wife and I took this tour less than 24 hours after arriving from sea level Florida, probably not the wisest decision as my wife had a slight headache since checking into our Quito hotel the evening before, probably from the change in altitude. It turned out we had a “private” tour simply because no one else had booked that day. We appreciated that CarpeDM ran the tour anyway; we’ve had experiences with previous tours operators in other countries that would cancel or try to have us reschedule. We met our guide, Alejandro, at the CarpeDM location in Quito where he outfitted us with bicycles, then packed them into his vehicle. His English was excellent and he had an enjoyable personality. As expected the drive up to Cotopaxi National Park was scenic. The exhibits inside near the entrance were very interesting and informative regarding the volcanos, flora and fauna in this region of Ecuador. After arriving at the parking lot for the hike up to “Refugio José Rivas” we put on our warmer clothing and started up, given the option of either the shorter but steeper route, or the longer, windier but less steep zigzag path. We chose the latter. Alejandro gave us hiking poles to use. Shortly after starting my wife realized that her headache was worse so she wisely decided to return to Alejandro’s vehicle to await our return. The hike was strenuous for me. My Strava app said it took 52 minutes to climb 1.3 miles, rising almost 700 feet, although I believe it was closer to 1000 feet. Alejandro patiently kept behind me, encouraging me to rest and catch my breath frequently (actual overall elapsed time was 1hr 6m) and monitor my heart rate. It was chilly, windy with occasional light rain but doable. Being 65 years old and 15 lbs overweight were balanced out by being very active cardio-wise at home. If I had problems with the altitude it would have been a different story. As they say, “Your results may vary.” Not that I could have, the 3000+ foot extra ascent from José Rivas to the summit is currently forbidden due to the possibility of noxious gases being released from the cone. Never mind you need crampons and ice pick axes. After resting at the refuge station we headed down the steeper, shorter (1.0 mile) in about 33 minutes. Next we descended by his vehicle on the unpaved park road and stopped for a short (4 mile) downhill ride on the bicycle (mountain bike with front suspension and wide tires). Easy as it was almost all downhill with minimal pedaling. Alejandro kept pace behind me until we came to our stopping point where he packed up the bikes. On the way back to Quito we stopped for a nice lunch (included) at a small restaurant in Latacunga. After eating our real food we fed carrots to the resident llamas in their backyard. The drive back to Quito was uneventful, returning just as the afternoon rush hour was commencing. Overall we strongly recommend the tour, keeping in mind your fitness and ability to cope with the high altitude.
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    Cotopaxi Volcano Quest!

    Embark on an unforgettable journey to Cotopaxi, climbing Ecuador’s iconic volcano with expert guidance and local flavors along the way.

    Included

    • inclusion
      Lunch
    • inclusion
      Guide
    • inclusion
      What’s Included:
    • inclusion
      Transport

    Excluded

    • exclusion
      What’s not included:
    • exclusion
      Tips
    • exclusion
      Additional snacks / beverages
    • exclusion
      Breakfast

    Meeting Point

    7:30am to 7.45am Entrance from Juan Leon Mera

    Meeting point

    Av. Río Amazonas 1914 Y, Quito 170143 , Ecuador

    End point

    End Point

    7:30am to 7.45am Entrance from Juan Leon Mera

    Meeting point

    Av. Río Amazonas 1914 Y, Quito 170143 , Ecuador

    End point

    What to expect

    1

    Meeting Point

    7.20am Next to The Secret garden Hostel

    2

    Go F.A.R. Project Ecuador

    Since this is a private tour you can confirm with us if you prefer an additional short hike instead of the downhill bike ride. Itinerary • 7:30 Meet at meeting point CarpeDM Office (Jose Antepara E4-38 and Los Ríos, Old Town sector) • 07:45 Transfer to the Cotopaxi National Park • 09:30 Enter Cotopaxi National Park • 10:00 The guide will give explanation of the area, volcanoes, vegetation, animals  etc. • 10:30 4600m car park, begin hike up to the refuge • 12:30 Reach refuge at 4.864m. return to parking lot • 13:00 Equipment Check – Begin Bike ride back to the Limpiapungo lake (short 3 - 5 km ride) • 14:00 Arrive at Limpiapungo lake. • 15:00 Eat lunch (included) • 16:00 Return to Quito

    Duration 15 minutes
    3

    Cotopaxi National Park

    Cotopaxi National Park

    Behold the majestic Cotopaxi, a vision of perfection with its impeccably symmetrical cone draped in a lavish cloak of snow and ice. A crowning jewel of Ecuador, this volcano beckons travelers from across the globe, making it the nation's most adored and ascended peak. Nestled amidst the ethereal paramo plateau of the Cotopaxi National Park, witness wild horses roaming freely, their silhouettes dancing against the vast plains. They converge by the serene Limpiopungo lagoon, a mirror reflecting the pristine white summits of the neighboring Volcan Rumiñahui. This haven is not just a sight, but a symphony of nature, where waterfowl and avian wonders serenade the soul. 1. Mariscal Sucre Interpretation Centre - get your passport stamped :) 2. Basecamp 4864 m Jose Rivas Refuge 3. Laguna Limpiopungo - followed by a hearty lunch that is included.

    Duration 180 minutes
    4

    Laguna de Limpiopungo

    Limpiopungo Lagoon is a beautiful lake formed by water from the glaciers. Located in Cotopaxi, Ecuador. Limpiopungo is like a mirror that reflects the Cotopaxi

    Duration 30 minutes
    5

    End Point

    7.20am Next to The Secret garden Hostel

    The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

    Additional Information

    • Additional information
      Extra snacks and water
    • Additional information
      Face masks
    • Additional information
      Gloves, scarf, hat
    • Additional information
      Hand sanitizer
    • Additional information
      Hiking boots or trekking shoes
    • Additional information
      Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Additional information
      Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Additional information
      Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Additional information
      Sunglasses
    • Additional information
      Sunscreen
    • Additional information
      Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Additional information
      Warm clothing
    • Additional information
      Waterproof jacket
    • Additional information
      What to bring:
    Provided by CarpeDM Adventures

    What our experts say

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      Dress in layers for changing weather.
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      Try local dishes at lunch for authentic taste.
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      Arrive early for the best parking options.
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      Bring extra snacks for energy during hike.
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      Check weather conditions before heading out.

    Why Book with Evendo?

    More About this Experience

    Introduction

    Experience the thrill of a lifetime with CarpeDM Adventures on their Cotopaxi Volcano Quest! As one of the world's leading adventure tour operators, CarpeDM has been providing unforgettable experiences for over a decade, earning them the prestigious title of "Excellence on TripAdvisor." Get ready to embark on an epic journey as you conquer an active volcano that towers at a staggering 5,897 meters. This is not your average tour; it's an opportunity to challenge yourself, push your limits, and create memories that will last a lifetime. To start your adventure, simply reach out to CarpeDM Adventures on WhatsApp at +593.98.534.1575, and let the excitement begin!

    What to expect?

    On the Cotopaxi Volcano Quest, you can expect an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. As you explore the Cotopaxi National Park, you'll be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Your knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating explanations about the area, volcanoes, vegetation, and animals, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of this unique ecosystem. The highlight of the tour is the hike up to the Basecamp at 4,600 meters, where you'll witness the sheer power and beauty of an active volcano up close. The adventure doesn't end there – you'll also visit the stunning Limpiopungo lake and enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional local restaurant. This tour is perfect for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking an extraordinary experience in the heart of Ecuador's natural wonders.

    Who is this for?

    The Cotopaxi Volcano Quest is designed for adventurers of all levels who are seeking a thrilling and immersive experience in nature. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to challenge yourself, this tour offers something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to explore the Cotopaxi National Park and witness its unique flora and fauna. Adventure seekers will find the adrenaline rush they crave as they ascend an active volcano. Photographers will be in awe of the stunning landscapes and dramatic vistas. This tour is also suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups, making it an inclusive experience for anyone looking to connect with nature and embark on an unforgettable journey.

    Why book this?

    The Cotopaxi Volcano Quest offers a truly unique and extraordinary adventure that sets it apart from other tours. CarpeDM Adventures, with their decade of excellence on TripAdvisor, ensures a high-quality experience with knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their expertise. This tour provides the rare opportunity to conquer an active volcano, immersing yourself in the raw power of nature. The stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fascinating explanations from your guide make this tour an educational and awe-inspiring experience. Additionally, CarpeDM takes care of all the logistics, including transportation and lunch, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free journey. By booking this tour, you'll not only challenge yourself physically but also create memories that will last a lifetime.

    Good to know

    Before embarking on the Cotopaxi Volcano Quest, there are a few important details to keep in mind. The tour starts at 7:20 am, just outside the CarpeDM Operations/Go F.A.R Office, or you can opt for a pickup at the Hilton Colon Hotel at 7:30 am. During the tour, there will be stops to pick up snacks or breakfast on the way to Cotopaxi National Park. It's essential to come prepared with comfortable hiking shoes, appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions, and sunscreen. The tour includes lunch at a traditional local restaurant, but additional snacks and beverages are not included. It's also customary to tip your guide for their exceptional service. Overall, be ready for an adventure-packed day filled with stunning landscapes, physical challenges, and unforgettable moments.

    Reviews

    Customers who have embarked on the Cotopaxi Volcano Quest rave about their experiences. They praise CarpeDM Adventures for their knowledgeable and friendly guides who provide fascinating insights into the area's history, geology, and wildlife. Travelers appreciate the seamless organization of the tour, from transportation to delicious meals. Many highlight the hike up to the Basecamp as a truly memorable and rewarding challenge, with breathtaking views of the volcano and surrounding landscapes. Customers also commend the professionalism and safety measures taken by CarpeDM Adventures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Overall, the reviews reflect the outstanding quality and unforgettable nature of the Cotopaxi Volcano Quest, making it a must-do adventure for any traveler seeking an extraordinary experience in Ecuador's natural wonders.

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