Quito: Cotopaxi Volcano Hike and Limpiopungo Lagoon Tour

Hike to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 meters Cotopaxi and explore the Limpiopungo Lagoon on a day trip from Quito. Enjoy a hot drink to combat altitude sickness before entering the National Park.
Depart from Quito early in the morning and drive along the Pan-American Highway South to Cotopaxi National Park. Enjoy the scenery along the Avenue of the Volcanoes as you reach the park, home to an active volcano standing at 5,897 meters (19,437 feet).

Before entering the National Park, stop at a cafeteria for a hot drink, canelazo (a hot cinnamon drink) to combat altitude sickness, as well as purchase snacks. Afterward, check in and drive directly to the mountain parking lot at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) to begin your 1 hour 45 minute hike (depending on your fitness level) to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 meters (15,953 feet). This will be the highest point of the day.

After this hike, descend by car to your second stop and take a 1 hour 30 minute hike around Limpiopungo, a lagoon where you'll see various types of páramo birds. After this fantastic high-altitude experience, visit the Information Center and purchase souvenirs in the gift shop.

Leave the National Park, have lunch at a local restaurant, and in the afternoon, return to your hotel in Quito. Optionally, rent mountain bikes for a descent from the mountain parking lot to Laguna Limpiopungo (additional cost).

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.