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Hiking in the Cotopaxi Region

Cotopaxi is a stunning active stratovolcano in the Ecuadorian Andes that gives name to the Cotopaxi province. The whole region has great hiking options that are not to be missed! Explore-share.com helps you book your next Hiking trip in the Cotopaxi Region.

At 5,897 m.a.s.l, and just 50km’s away from Ecuador’s capital Quito, Cotopaxi is truly a stunner and a landmark in the region. The Cotopaxi province gets its name from this stunning volcano and although the breathtaking crater is well worth reaching, even if you don’t get to the summit, the whole area is an amazing region for hiking with unique valleys formed by lahars from the volcano’s eruptions and a lot more to discover. Compare and book a certified guide for your trip at Explore-Share.com: 1500+ guides, 70+ countries and more than 8000 different programs to choose from. Take a pick from our selection of Hiking trips in Cotopaxi Region. The mountains are calling!
 
 
 
 
 

Top hiking trips | Cotopaxi Region:

 
 
 

What people are saying about these trips

Dheeraj Bandaru

5.00

January, 2023

5-day hiking trip in the Ecuadorian Andes

The traveller did not leave a comment.

John Trewin

5.00

August, 2022

The haciendas of Ecuador, 11-day Trek in the Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa & Chimborazo

Hi. I cannot say enough that this trekking trip was really well run and organised . Great walking and accommodation in the Haciendas perfect. Our guide Pablo went out of his way to help with any problems and changes we made.. Information on Ecuador and nature there was nothing he did not know. When there was altitude problems he adapted the trek. A great and amazing guide!!!!!! The volcano walks nothing short of amazing., Big thankyou to Javier.. A great company...

Gabriel Mardale

5.00

March, 2022

7-day Cotopaxi “Trek & Climb” expedition near Quito, Ecuador

The trip was simply great in all aspects! I will return for more

Eliotte Wong

5.00

January, 2022

7-day Cotopaxi “Trek & Climb” expedition near Quito, Ecuador

Great trip. Summiting Cotopaxi was intense but gave us the most stunning sunrise I've ever seen in my life. The acclimation program was well thought out and the hikes were beautiful. Our guide was very knowledgeable and organized. I had a wonderful time. Bring heavy sunscreen (at least SPF 50 or better yet, 70). Also, train. I'm relatively fit--I run and climb regularly--but I wish I had done more specific training for this trip.

John Cicero

5.00

December, 2021

7-day Cotopaxi “Trek & Climb” expedition near Quito, Ecuador

This was a fantastic trip from beginning to end. Javier, I especially appreciate how well Javier took care of my daughter's (gluten free) dietary restriction, and that he arranged to take my daughter and I for the covid tests required for our return to the U.S. at the end of our trip. The entire team of guides were all knowledgeable, professional, personable and highly attentive to the group's needs. I appreciate how well thought out the itinerary was planned. The daily hikes along the Avenue of the Volcanoes increased in elevation every day in order to acclimate to the higher altitude, giving the best chance of success in reaching the summit of Cotopaxi-the main event-at the end of the week. Cotopaxi is a VERY tough hike, unlike anything that I've ever done before and certainly outside my comfort zone Again, simply a fantastic trip from beginning to end.

Baara Washishi

5.00

November, 2021

7-day Cotopaxi “Trek & Climb” expedition near Quito, Ecuador

Absolutely Incredible trip!! Couldn't recommend enough. Amazing terrains, hikes, food, people and guides! Such good value for money also. Cotopaxi summit day was the most challenging but worth it!

Gerald Tien Pan Loo

5.00

December, 2020

7-day Cotopaxi “Trek & Climb” expedition near Quito, Ecuador

Javier delivered an outstanding expedition from end to end. Everything was seamlessly organised - from transfers between haciendas/campsites to equipment hiring. Pace of the acclimatisation programme was just right, with rest days in between the summit attempts on Pasochoa, Ruminahui and Cotopaxi spent in beautiful accommodation with great food throughout. The other guides Pablo and Marco were exceptional: personable and professional - we felt very safe in their hands.

Lara Pedrini

5.00

May, 2018

Full day trek in Cotopaxi National Park

Fernando is an incredible guide. He is very experienced and has extensive knowledge of the area. He will always make sure you are safe and comfortable. I highly recommend Fernando to anyone wishing to explore/hike/live/breathe the area. What an incredible experience!


 

There are many reasons for choosing Hiking in Ecuador

The Cotopaxi is stunning visually both from afar and from the summit. It is also an accessible climb with a rewarding view from the crater top. Quilotoa lake is the other belle of the ball in the region and well worth visiting.

 

Good to know:

Country code

+593

Language

Spanish and Quechua

Currency

United States Dollar

Best time to visit

During the dry season, from June to September, although December and January are popular as well

Weather

Climate in the Cotopaxi province is warm and temperate year round, although temperatures drop at the higher altitudes of mountain summits where you may also encounter snow

How to get there

To get to the Cotopaxi province, you will need to fly in to Quito, the capital of Ecuador, which is just 45kms away. From there, you can take a bus or a car to Latacunga, which is the most important city in the province

More info about Hiking in Cotopaxi Region:

The Ecuadorian Andes are full of color and mystique. The Cotopaxi province is a favorite in the region as it is home to its namesake volcano, the second highest in the country, and also to Quilotoa volcano, which is famous for its stunning crater lake. Visiting Ecuador is an unforgettable experience, and hiking in this region will not only allow you to revel at its stunning landscapes but also to discover the beautiful local indigenous culture and Inca history. To get the most out of your trip, and to help arrange logistics, going with a certified mountain guide is a must. At Explore-Share.com you can find the perfect match for your mountaineering needs!

 

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