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Strenuously Cotopaxi Volcano and birding by the lagoon

Location Quito, Ecuador
Location Ecuador
Location Pifo, Ecuador
$199
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.

Overview

Contemplate Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in Ecuador, and visit Cotopaxi National Park, the most-visited tourist attraction in Ecuador Mainland. This volcanic complex offers a wealth of biological diversity beyond just the mountain.

  • 🏞️ Walk on volcanic sand trails while enjoying the fresh air of the Andes.
  • 🌄 Experience the height sensation from the Jose Rivas volcanic refuge at 15,748 feet.
  • 📸 Photograph a mesotrophic lagoon that is home to native and migratory birds.
  • 🐦 Observe wildlife crossing from the entrance to higher elevations within Cotopaxi National Park.
  • 🏰 Learn about Cotopaxi's historical significance as an important indigenous settlement with a Pukara, an indigenous military fortress.
Strenuously Cotopaxi Volcano and birding by the lagoon
Pickup included
Tour guide
Language: English
Human tour guide

  • A Naturalist Guide/Driver (English/Spanish-speaking)
  • Pick-up from Quito city or the Airport
  • Cotopaxi National Park admission
  • Tips
  • Lunch
  • Travel Insurance

  • 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. (pass by)
  • 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.
  • Cotopaxi National Park
    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
  • 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.
  • Laguna de Limpiopungo
    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.
  • Quito
    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.
  • This experience requires good weather.
    If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!

    Strenuously Cotopaxi Volcano and birding by the lagoon

    Location Quito, Ecuador
    Location Ecuador
    Location Pifo, Ecuador
    $199
    This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.
    How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
    Delivery options
    eVoucher
    • Free
    • Instant delivery
    • Environmentally friendly
    Physical Gift Box
    • $10.00 fee
    • 2-5 business days
    • Shipping Worldwide

    No expiration date
    Easy refund
    Free exchange
    Easy booking
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