How to Plan Your Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day in Quito

Are you planning a visit to Quito, Ecuador and looking to make the most of your time by exploring natural attractions that are rare to come by? The Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day allows you to visit two of the most spectacular sights in Ecuador—the Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa Lagoon—in just one day. This private tour is an excellent opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of the country while a professional guide helps you explore the attractions at your own pace. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day in Quito.

Overview

The Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day is designed to help visitors tick off two of Ecuador’s top natural attractions in a single day. The tour provides an opportunity to visit Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa Lagoon, with a private guide who ensures that you enjoy the tour at your own pace. The tour suggests the following itinerary: • 07:00: Start from your hotel in Quito • 09:00-11:00: Arrival and visit to Cotopaxi National Park • 11:00-12:00: Visiting Laguna de Limpiopungo • 12:00-14:00: Hiking to the Cotopaxi refuge (optional) • 15:00-16:30: Visiting Quilotoa Lagoon • 18:30: Return to your hotel in Quito

What’s Included

The Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day includes: • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito • Admission tickets to Cotopaxi National Park and Laguna de Limpiopungo • Lunch • Professional guide

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins with pickup from any hotel in Quito at around 07:00 AM.

What to Expect

Here’s what you can expect from the tour:

Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi is an active stratovolcano in the Andes Mountains, located about 50 kilometers south of Quito. Cotopaxi National Park surrounding the volcano offers a unique insight into the volcanic history of the region, as it is home to various species of flora and fauna. The park is perfect for a nature lover and offers scenic trails for hikers, incredible wildlife, and beautiful lakes. Here are some of the highlights of Cotopaxi National Park: • Cotopaxi Volcano: Located in the heart of the national park, the Cotopaxi Volcano towers at 5,897 meters above sea level. The perfectly symmetrical volcano is one of the highest active volcanos in the world and offers spectacular views of the Andes Mountains. • Laguna de Limpiopungo: This lagoon is home to a range of bird species, including Andean Coots, Yellow-Billed Teals, and Andean Gulls. Visitors can witness beautiful snow-capped mountains reflected in the lagoon, making it an incredible spot for photography.

Laguna Quilotoa

The day’s second primary destination is Laguna Quilotoa, an active volcanic crater lake located 178 kilometers from Quito. The lagoon is strikingly beautiful, with crystal clear turquoise waters that vary in temperature from cold to warm. The surrounding scenery is characterized by stunning green hills that change color depending on the time of day and weather conditions. Visitors can hike down to or around the lagoon crater, but the return journey back up is a bit more challenging, and the tour provides assistance and guidance during this hike.

Additional Information

• Pickup points: The tour offers pickup from any hotel in Quito. • Start time: The tour departs at 07:00 AM. Now that you have read through everything you need to know about the Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day, it’s time to Book the tour here and embark on your journey through the natural beauty of Ecuador.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Quito, Ecuador

If you are planning a trip to South America, Quito, the capital of Ecuador, cannot be missed. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty, Quito has a lot to offer. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Quito.

1. What is the history of Quito?

Quito is one of the oldest cities in South America, built over the ruins of an ancient Incan city. It was founded in 1534 by the Spanish and served as the capital of the Spanish colonial empire for the northern regions of South America. In 1978, Quito became the first UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved historic buildings and cultural significance.

2. What is the best time to visit Quito?

The best time to visit Quito is from June to September, which is the dry season. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, being a high-altitude city, Quito can get chilly at night, so it is always recommended to pack warm clothes.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Quito?

Quito has no shortage of remarkable attractions. The following are the most visited:

– The Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains countless colonial buildings, churches, and museums. The most popular attractions are the Church of La Compania de Jesus, Plaza de la Independencia, and Panecillo Hill.

– Mitad del Mundo

The Mitad del Mundo or the Equator line is where you can stand in the middle of the earth. It is believed to be the spot of the earth’s center and is a popular tourist destination.

– Cotopaxi Volcano

Cotopaxi is an active volcano about an hour and a half drive from Quito. It is the second-highest volcano in Ecuador and attracts visitors for its stunning landscape and outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

4. How is the food in Quito?

Ecuadorian cuisine is a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. In Quito, you will find several local dishes that are worth trying, such as ceviche, llapingachos, and fanesca. Also, the street food culture is thriving, and there are several food markets like Mercado Central where you can indulge in local delicacies.

5. Is Quito safe for tourists?

Quito is generally a safe city for tourists, but, like any other city, it’s essential to take necessary precautions. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in crowded areas, so stay alert when in public places. Also, avoid walking alone at night and take licensed taxis while traveling.

6. How can I get around Quito?

Quito has a reliable public transport system that consists of buses and taxis. Buses are the cheapest mode of transport, but they can get crowded during peak hours. Taxis are affordable, and it’s advisable to take licensed cabs. Uber is also available in Quito, and it’s a safe and convenient option. If you’re looking for an adventure, you can explore the city on foot.

7. What are some useful Spanish phrases to know to travel around Quito?

While Quito is an international city, knowing a few Spanish phrases will make your trip more enjoyable. Here are some useful phrases: – Hola: Hello – Por Favor: Please – Gracias: Thank You – ¿Dónde está…?: Where is…? – ¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost? – No hablo español: I don’t speak Spanish

8. What should I pack for Quito?

Quito’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s ideal to pack for both hot and cold weather. Here are some essentials: – Warm jacket or sweater – Hiking shoes or sneakers – Sunscreen and sunglasses – Raincoat or umbrella – Adapter for electrical outlets – Hat or cap

9. What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Quito?

Quito has plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best activities include: – Hiking through the cloud forest of Mindo – Mountain biking in the Cotopaxi National Park – Paragliding over the Andes mountains – Whitewater rafting on the Quijos River

10. What is the currency of Quito?

The currency of Ecuador is the US dollar. You can easily exchange your currency at the airport or banks. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places. However, it’s always advisable to have some cash as backup. In conclusion, Quito is a fascinating city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With proper planning and necessary precautions, you can have an incredible trip to Quito.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador located in the Andean Mountains, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. Known for its immaculate beauty, vibrant culture, and historical significance, this city never ceases to amaze visitors from all over the world. From visiting Spanish colonial architecture to exploring the natural wonders in and around the city, Quito has a lot to offer to tourists. So, to help you make the most of your trip, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Quito.

1. Visit the Historic Center of Quito

The historic center, also known as the ‘Old Town’ of Quito, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. It’s filled with colonial-era buildings, beautiful churches, and cathedrals. You can spend hours wandering through the narrow streets, taking in the colorful architecture and street art. Make sure to visit the Cathedral of Quito, La Compañía de Jesús, and the Basilica del Voto Nacional.

2. Take a Cable Car to Pichincha Volcano

Quito is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and you can get an incredible view of the city by taking a cable car to Pichincha Volcano. The cable car ride takes around 20 minutes and provides panoramic views of Quito’s skyline. Once you reach the top, you can hike to the summit of the volcano, which offers an even more stunning view of the city.

3. Explore La Ronda

La Ronda is a charming, cobblestoned street located in the center of Quito’s historic district. It’s lined with small artisan shops, cafes, and bars. You can spend a few hours exploring the area, watching street performers, and enjoying the local food and drinks.

4. Visit the Middle of the World Monument

The Middle of the World monument marks the spot where the equator line runs through Ecuador. It’s a popular tourist spot, and visitors can take pictures while standing in both hemispheres. The monument also has a museum where you can learn about the history and significance of the equator.

5. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Quito has a lot of restaurants that serve traditional Ecuadorian dishes like ceviche, llapingachos, and empanadas. You should also try the local street food, like roasted corn on the cob, which is a popular snack in Quito.

6. Spend a Day in the Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park is located about 50 kilometers from Quito, and it’s one of Ecuador’s premier national parks. It’s home to the Cotopaxi Volcano, which is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Visitors can hike, bike or horseback ride through the park and enjoy amazing views of wildflowers and wildlife.

7. Learn About Ecuador’s Indigenous Communities

Ecuador has many indigenous communities with their own unique traditions and cultures. You can visit one of these communities, like Otavalo or Salasaca, and learn about their way of life, crafts, and music. Many tours leave from Quito and provide an opportunity to experience the diversity of Ecuador’s culture.

8. Enjoy the Nightlife

Quito has a thriving nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and discos that cater to all tastes. One of the best places to start is the ‘Mariscal’ neighborhood, also known as ‘Gringolandia,’ which has a mix of local and international bars and restaurants.

Book Your Tour Now

Quito is a city with a lot to offer, from its historical significance to its natural beauty and vibrant culture. By following this guide and visiting these top destinations, you’ll be able to experience the best of Quito and create unforgettable memories of your trip to Ecuador.