COTOPAXI AND QUILOTOA LAGOON - 3 DAYS
In this 3 day / 2 night tour through the foothills of one of the most wonderful volcanoes in the world we will explore its surroundings and nature full of life. We will also visit one of the most colorful lagoons in the world, Laguna del Quilotoa. With an impressive turquoise color, it makes this place a paradise within an extinct volcano.
TOUR OVERVIEW
Private Tour with: English Speaking Guide-Driver.
Tour Runs: Any day, subject to Availability.
Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Destinations: Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Limpiopungo Lake, Quilotoa Lagoon, Zumbahua Canyon, Cotopaxi Area
Type of Trip: Nature, Andean culture, soft adventure, hiking, photography
Highlights: Active Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world; Andean volcanic landscapes and wildlife; Limpiopungo high altitude lake; hike to Jose Rivas Refuge; indigenous markets; Zumbahua Canyon; Quilotoa crater lagoon with turquoise waters; overnight stay at a traditional highland hacienda.
Optional Activities at the Hacienda (not included, reserved and paid directly): Horseback riding through Andean landscapes, mountain biking, guided nature walks, birdwatching, visits to local communities, cheese making demonstrations, and relaxing by the fireplace while enjoying the highland surroundings. These activities are subject to availability and can be arranged directly at the hacienda.
ITINERARY
| DAY | SERVICES | HOTEL | MEALS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PICK UP - VISIT COTOPAXI VOLCANO - OVERNIGHT IN HACIENDA | Hacienda in Cotopaxi | N/A |
| 2 | VISIT INDIGENOUS MARKETS - QUILOTOA LAGOON | Hacienda in Cotopaxi | B |
| 3 | ACTIVITIES ON YOUR OWN AT HACIENDA - RETURN TO QUITO | No Hotel | B |
ITINERARY DAY BY DAY
DAY 1: PICK UP FROM QUITO - TRIP TO COTOPAXI FULL DAY - OVERNIGHT AT LOCAL HACIENDA
Our guide will pick you up from your hotel in Quito to begin the journey to one of Ecuador's most iconic natural landmarks, Cotopaxi Volcano. One of the world's highest active volcanoes, at 5,897 meters (19,347 feet), we will enter Cotopaxi National Park, where we will explore its breathtaking volcanic Andean landscapes and unique flora and fauna. We will then continue to Limpiopungo Lagoon, a high-altitude lake that offers excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing. On clear days, the snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi is beautifully reflected in the water's surface. From Limpiopungo, we will drive up to the Cotopaxi parking area, where our hike to the Jose Rivas Refuge begins. We'll hike approximately 800 meters over sandy volcanic terrain to reach the Refuge, located at 4,810 meters (15,392 feet). The ascent takes about an hour and rewards you with panoramic views and a close-up look at the Cotopaxi glaciers. After this unforgettable experience, transfer to the Local Hacienda for overnight.
- Meals included: N/A.
- Overnight: At Local Hacienda in Cotopaxi Area.
DAY 2: VISIT INDIGENOUS MARKETS ON THE WAY TO QUILOTOA LAGOON - RETURN TO COTOPAXI
Today you’ll set out on a scenic journey to one of Ecuador’s most stunning natural wonders: Quilotoa Crater Lake a volcanic caldera filled with striking turquoise water. According to local indigenous legend, the lake is believed to be bottomless, adding to its mystique. Before reaching Quilotoa, we’ll also pass through the Zumbahua Canyon, a dramatic landscape that makes for an excellent photo stop. Upon arrival at Quilotoa, you’ll have the chance to hike from the crater rim down to the lake’s edge, where you can fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of this magical place. The hike back up is steep and physically challenging In the late afternoon, we’ll return to the hacienda near Cotopaxi, where you’ll enjoy a relaxing evening in the highlands.
- Meals included: Breakfast.
- Overnight: At Local Hacienda in Cotopaxi Area.
DAY 3: FREE MORNING OF ACTIVITIES AT HACIENDA IN THE COTOPAXI AREA - RETURN TO QUITO
This final day dawns with a breathtaking view of the beautiful Cotopaxi volcano. This morning you can enjoy activities at the hacienda. Your guide will pick you up after midday to return to Quito. He will drop you off at your hotel, and the services will End.
- Meals included: Breakfast.
END OF SERVICES.
RATES PER PERSON 2026
ECONOMIC CLASS - PRICE PER PERSON $499
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
|---|---|---|
Cotopaxi | Papagayo Lodge | Breakfast |
TOURIST CLASS - PRICE PER PERSON $517
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
|---|---|---|
Cotopaxi | Chilcabamba Lodge | Breakfast |
TOURIST SUPERIOR - PRICE PER PERSON $536
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
|---|---|---|
Cotopaxi | Hacienda El Porvenir | Breakfast |
FIRST CLASS - PRICE PER PERSON $596
CITY | HOTEL | MEALS INCLUDED |
|---|---|---|
Cotopaxi | Hacienda La Cienega | Breakfast |
INCLUDES:
- Private transportation during the whole program with English speaking guide-driver.
- Accommodation in double room with private bathroom at Local hacienda in Cotopaxi area.
- Meals according to the program.
- Museum entrance fees during the land program
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Meals not specified in the program.
- Extra activities not specified in the program.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities.
- Wire transfer costs or credit card fees.
- Other non-specified.









