Cotopaxi National Park: Travel along Andean Volcanoes Avenue heading south to the iconic Cotopaxi National Park. Begin your adventure with a visit to the park’s natural museum, where you’ll learn about its fascinating nature, geology, history, and the eruptions of Cotopaxi Volcano (5897m).
Next, visit Limpiopungo Lake (3800m) for an acclimatizing walk surrounded by stunning views. Keep an eye out for diverse bird species such as ducks, eagles, and Andean gulls.
Continue your journey to the parking lot at 4600m, where, on clear days, you’ll enjoy incredible vistas of the Andean landscape. Weather permitting and depending on your physical condition, hike for approximately 45 minutes to the José Ribas Refuge (4800m). At the refuge, warm up with a delicious hot chocolate while taking in the views.
Afterward, an optional Ecuadorian lunch can be enjoyed at a local restaurant before heading back to Quito.
Duration: 4 hours