Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel, as we set off southward along the famous Pan-American Highway. Our first stop is in the charming town of Machachi, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast (not included) at one of the local eateries. Take advantage of this break to stock up on snacks and drinks for the road, as lunch will be served later in the day. This stop also offers restroom facilities and an ATM, but be sure to have cash on hand, as many local vendors and restaurants don’t accept credit cards.

As we continue our journey, the stunning landscapes of the Andean páramo will unfold before your eyes. Upon arriving at Cotopaxi National Park, our guide will take care of the registration, and you’ll be ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this extraordinary place.

Our first destination within the park is the Limpiopungo Lagoon, situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters. Spanning approximately 200 hectares, the lagoon is surrounded by lush reed beds and native medicinal plants. Keep your eyes peeled for Andean gulls, ducks, curiquingues, and other native birds that call this area home.

Next, we’ll visit the Mariscal Sucre Interpretation Center at 4,810 meters above sea level. This center features exhibition rooms, a souvenir shop, and a café. Here, you can delve into the fascinating history and geology of the Cotopaxi Volcano through a curated display of photographs and informative exhibits.

The adventure ramps up as we drive to a parking area at 4,500 meters, where you might spot moorland foxes and curiquingues. From here, we’ll begin our hike to the José Rivas Refuge. The trek up and down the volcano can take anywhere from two to two and a half hours, depending on your physical condition and the weather. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination, so take your time to enjoy the magnificent scenery along the way.

Upon reaching the José Rivas Refuge, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. Depending on the season, you may even find yourself surrounded by snow. The refuge offers restroom facilities, a café, and food options—don’t forget to bring cash as card payments are not accepted here. Warm up with a cup of coca tea to help acclimate to the altitude, and be sure to stamp your passport with the official Cotopaxi seal—a lasting memento of your climb to Ecuador’s second-highest volcano.

Our final stop is a traditional hacienda near Cotopaxi, where you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch (not included). Choose from a variety of dishes, including the comforting potato locro—a perfect dish for the cool climate. With your appetite satisfied and your adventure complete, we’ll return to Quito and drop you off at your hotel.