Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour

Contemplate the highest active volcano in Ecuador. The snow-capped volcano tops out 19,337 feet above sea level. Cotopaxi National Park is the most-visited tourist attraction in Ecuador Mainland. Discover more than a mountain in this volcanic complex full of biological diversity. Get inspired by the Cotopaxi one of the best trips in Ecuador. Take a walk on volcanic sand trails and feel the fresh air of the Andes. Feel the height sensation from the Jose Rivas volcanic refuge located at 15,748 feet. Fun and adventure wait for you at the almost perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone. Perfect place to walk with your friends and test yourself. Visit and photography a mesotrophic lagoon which houses some native birds or migratory. Wildlife can be seen crossing from the entrance to the high spot of the Cotopaxi National Park. To enjoy a better experience during this tour, we recommend bringing a camera with a telephoto lens or binoculars.

1. 1

   Quito

   Pass by

   Quito city to Cotopaxi National Park (9,000 feet high) Pick up from the hotel. Cotopaxi Volcano is located in Northen Andes of Ecuador. After a 2-hour drive, we get to the National Park whose altitude is 3,400 msl (11,154 feet). During the drive, we will observe the Andean ecosystem and volcanic sceneries. The climate we will find in the Cotopaxi National Park will depend on the season. The average temperature is 7° celsius (44° Fahrenheit), so we recommend bringing warm clothing, walking shoes and a rain or wind jacket.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   20 min

   Take a short break and try a hot coca tea, this ancient drink will help you to mitigate the altitude sickness during the walk. From the viewpoint, you can see two extinct volcanoes and farms.

3. 3

   Cotopaxi National Park

   1.5 hours

   Upon arrival at the Cotopaxi National Park, we will carry out the respective check-in at the main entrance. From here, we will drive directly until we reach out the parking lot that is located at 14,763 feet above sea level. Here, we prepare to start a one-hour walk until we get in the Jose Ribas refuge, which is located at 15,748 feet. If you are not used to the height, you may feel a little fatigued, which is normal, for this reason, the walk can be slow and according to your physical conditions. After a great experience walking on the flanks of an active volcano, we will arrive at the refuge. The incredible view will be the reward of the walk. We will do the walk slowly, we adapt to the conditions of all travelers

4. 4

   Stop 4

   30 min

   Once in the Jose Ribas refuge (4,800 m/15,748 ft), we just relax and enjoy a magnificent volcanic view so call the avenue of the volcanoes. Also, you can take amazing pictures and stamp your passport that will certify that you were in the highest active volcano in Ecuador. A delicious and hot mug of chocolate will be the reward upon arriving at the shelter.

5. 5

   Laguna de Limpiopungo

   45 min

   After the succulent lunch, we will visit the Limpopungo Lagoon (3,900 m/12,795 ft), the lagoon is fed by waters of the stone-faced volcan. The lagoon is located next to the fearsome Cotopaxi volcano. It is possible to make a one-hour walk around the edge of the lagoon. Exploring the lagoon, can encounter several species of birds including the Carunculated Caracara, Andean Lapwing, Andean Gulls, Andean Coots, Andean Teals, Great Yellow Legs (march), Plumbeous Sierra-Finch, Stout-billed Cinclodes, Tawny Antpitta, Baird's Sandpiper (July and August), Solitary Sandpiper (November and February). Other animals that can be observed depending on the time of the year are: South american foxes, farel horses, white tail deer, andean hare, puma, red deer, the opossum or raposa, mouse and the Andean weasel.

6. 6

   Quito

   2 hours

   Finally, we drive back to the city of Quito to drop you off at the same meeting point.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.