Family-Friendly Andes Adventure: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and Banos in 5 Days
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Active families comfortable walking 2–4 miles a day with some stairs and high-altitude grades.
Overview
Volcanoes, crater lakes, and waterfall canyons—this five-day, kid-friendly loop from Quito balances big-Andes scenery with manageable hikes and flexible pacing. Expect Cotopaxi views, a Quilotoa lake descent (with horse options back up), and Baños’ thundering falls.
Family-Friendly Andes Adventure: Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and Banos in 5 Days
Select participants and date
Dawn breaks cool and bright in Quito as the Andes wake with a slow exhale. Kids tug scarves higher while Cotopaxi rides the horizon like a white-capped wave, daring you upward. This five-day family circuit links the high spine of Ecuador—volcanoes, crater lakes, and waterfall canyons—at a pace designed for curious travelers of all ages.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Acclimatize before big efforts
Spend your first night in Quito and keep day one mellow; Cotopaxi and Quilotoa sit above 3,900 m where altitude can slow kids and adults alike.
Plan for wet stairs at Pailón del Diablo
Footpaths are constantly misted—wear shoes with grippy soles and pack a lightweight rain layer for everyone.
Bring small cash for local services
Horse rides up from Quilotoa and roadside snacks often require cash; carry small bills in a dry pouch.
Layer like a local
Mornings can be cold and afternoons sunny; quick-dry layers and sun protection keep kids comfortable through rapid weather shifts.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Andean fox (culpeo) in páramo grasslands
- Carunculated caracara circling over Cotopaxi’s plains
History
Quilotoa’s caldera formed after a powerful eruption around the late 13th century, leaving a mineral-rich lake whose colors shift with light and wind. Tigua’s folk art tradition grew from storytelling scenes painted on sheepskin for local festivals.
Conservation
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile páramo vegetation and prevent erosion on sandy slopes. Pack out all trash and use refillable bottles—many stops offer water to reduce plastic use.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Quito
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof shell jacket
Mountain weather changes fast and waterfalls drench trails—stay dry and warm.
Sturdy, grippy hiking shoes
Traction helps on Quilotoa’s sandy slope and Baños’ wet stone steps.
Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
High UV at altitude demands consistent sun protection, even on cool days.
summer specific
Child carrier or trekking poles
Useful for tired legs on the Quilotoa return climb and uneven volcanic terrain.