Cover the Andes’ signature highlights in two days: Cotopaxi’s volcanic slopes and the vivid green crater of Quilotoa. This high‑altitude loop blends short, rugged hikes with cultural stops and an overnight hacienda stay.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the van and air so thin it feels deliberate greets you — sharp and clean against a sky that seems too close. Cotopaxi’s cone rises above the grassland, a snow-capped column that redraws scale; nearby, Limpiopungo lagoon mirrors the volcano when wind lets it. On day one the route moves through volcanic páramo: short grasses, cushion plants and wind that shapes every exposed ridge.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness recommended; able to hike 3–6 hours at high altitude and handle sustained uphill sections.
Wildlife
History
The Cotopaxi region has long been used for highland agriculture; Quilotoa’s caldera formed from a major Holocene eruption and local communities preserve Quechua-speaking cultural traditions.
Conservation
Both sites lie within sensitive highland ecosystems; stick to marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife and carry out all trash — local guides support community-based conservation initiatives.
Reserve your spot on the Cotopaxi and Quilotoa 2-Day 1-Night departures everyday today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend a day in Quito (2,850 m) before the tour — slow breathing and light activity reduce altitude effects.
Bring ID for park seal
Carry your passport if you want the Cotopaxi National Park stamp; guides also request identification for entrance.
High sun, high risk
UV is stronger at altitude — apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear sunglasses even on cloudy days.
Footing can be loose
Expect gravel, volcanic scree and steep crater steps — trekking poles and sturdy boots improve balance and reduce knee strain.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky trails, crater steps and moist mornings.
Insulating layers and windproof shell
Temperatures can swing from sun‑warm to near‑freezing with strong wind at higher elevations.
Sunglasses & sunscreen
High-altitude UV protection for exposed slopes and reflective water surfaces.
Trekking poles
Reduce stress on knees during steep crater descent and ascent; helpful on loose scree.