A compact 2-day circuit from Quito that pairs Cotopaxi’s volcanic slopes with the turquoise rim of Quilotoa and the high, wind-swept approaches to Chimborazo. Ideal for travelers who want dramatic Andean scenery without technical climbing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The road out of Quito climbs into a thin, silver air; wind tugs at jackets and the silhouette of Cotopaxi appears — a near-perfect cone keeping watch over the high páramo. On day one you skirt Limpiopungo’s quiet lagoon, where horses pick at tussock grass and Andean gulls trace the shoreline, then stand at the rim of Quilotoa where the crater lake shouts turquoise against volcanic rock.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Basic cardiovascular fitness recommended; ability to walk 2–4 miles over uneven terrain at altitude.
Wildlife
History
These volcanic peaks have long been part of Andean life and lore; indigenous communities around Quilotoa and Chimborazo practiced highland agriculture and weaving for centuries.
Conservation
Cotopaxi and Chimborazo are protected reserves with regulated access; stick to trails, carry out waste, and follow guides to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Chimborazo 2 Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before exertion
Spend a day in Quito (2,850 m) or lower before the tour; the biggest risk is altitude, not trail difficulty.
Shoes for varied terrain
Wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots—the crater rim and páramo can be rocky and uneven.
Sun and hydration
High-altitude sun is intense—carry 2–3 liters of water and broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Start early for visibility
Morning drives often deliver the clearest views; cloud build-up in afternoons can obscure peaks.
Sturdy hiking boots
Protects ankles and provides traction on rocky crater rims and muddy páramo trails.
Insulating layers and wind shell
High-altitude conditions swing from sun-warm to icy; layers let you adjust quickly.
Hydration system (2–3 L)
Maintains hydration at altitude and during dry, windy sections.
Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sunscreen)
UV is strong near the equator and at elevation—essential even on cloudy days.