Experience Ecuador’s most iconic volcano with a unique combination of hiking and biking — all in one day.

This tour operates on: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
Departure: 07:10 AM from Quito from plaza Fosch or 7:30 San Blas Square.
Minimum: 1 participant (shared basis, subject to availability)

The Cotopaxi Hike & Bike Day Tour offers a thrilling and accessible way to explore one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural wonders — Cotopaxi National Park. This full-day adventure takes you deep into the Andean highlands, combining light hiking, optional mountain biking, and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight of the experience is reaching the José Rivas Refuge (4,864 m / 15,748 ft) on the slopes of Cotopaxi Volcano, the highest active volcano in the world. The tour is designed for active travelers who want to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in a single day — all without the need for technical climbing skills or prior experience. You’ll also get a taste of local culture, with stops in traditional highland towns and encounters with Andean communities. Whether you’re looking for physical activity, stunning photography, or simply a memorable escape into nature, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, safety, and comfort — just 1.5 hours from Quito.

• 07:10 AM – Departure from Quito
• Stop for breakfast & acclimatization at 2,945 m
• Visit Cotopaxi National Park entrance at 3,200 m
• Drive to volcano parking lot (4,600 m approx.)
• Hike to Jose Rivas Refuge (4,864 m)
• Return to parking lot
• Optional biking descent to Limpiopungo Lagoon (3,850 m)
• Lunch included
• Return to Quito (~5:00 PM)

We begin our journey departing from Quito at 07:10 AM, heading south along the Pan-American Highway through the scenic Andean highlands. Along the way, we pass through the traditional town of Machachi, known for its agriculture and livestock, nestled between the Pasochoa and Rumiñahui volcanoes to the east, and Corazón Hill and the majestic Ilinizas twin peaks to the west.

After approximately 1.5 hours, we make our first technical stop at 2,945 meters (9,662 ft). Here, we take time to acclimatize to the altitude, enjoy a light breakfast, and take in the beautiful landscapes — perfect for photos and a short rest before the main adventure.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at the Cotopaxi National Park entrance, located at 3,200 meters (10,498 ft). This is our second stop, where visitors can interact with local Andean communities, browse handicrafts and mountain gear, and learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and conservation efforts. As Ecuador’s second most visited national park (after the Galápagos), Cotopaxi is famous for its namesake volcano — standing at 5,897 meters (19,347 ft), it is the highest active volcano in the world.

From here, our vehicle takes us up to the volcano’s parking lot at approximately 4,600 meters (15,091 ft). We then begin a moderate, non-technical hike to the José Rivas Refuge, situated at 4,864 meters (15,748 ft). This trail is accessible to most travelers and doesn’t require special equipment or prior experience. The hike takes around 1.5 hours round trip and rewards you with spectacular views of Cotopaxi’s glaciers, volcanic terrain, and possibly even sightings of wild horses or Andean foxes.

After descending from the refuge, adventurous participants have the option to join an exciting downhill biking experience, descending from the upper parking lot to the scenic Limpiopungo Lagoon, located at 3,850 meters (12,631 ft). The ride lasts approximately 40 to 60 minutes and follows wide volcanic paths surrounded by stunning Andean grasslands. Mountain bikes and helmets are provided for your safety and enjoyment.

The tour concludes with a traditional Andean lunch (included), after which we begin our return to Quito. Arrival is expected between 5:00 and 6:00 PM, bringing an unforgettable day of hiking, biking, and breathtaking landscapes to a close.

SHARING BASIS

English speaking guide

Authorized tourist transportation

Menu-style lunch

Bike + helmet (for Hike & Bike)

Park entrance permits

Extra food and drinks

Tips or gratuities

Snacks

• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• Windproof jacket, gloves, sunglasses
• Sunscreen & hat
• Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
• Camera