
Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 19 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour worth booking?
Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour is a 7-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $125 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 19 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (19)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $125 per person
Contemplate the highest active volcano in Ecuador. The snow-capped volcano tops out 19,337 feet above sea level. Cotopaxi National Park is the most-visited tourist attraction in Ecuador Mainland. Discover more than a mountain in this volcanic complex full of biological diversity. Get inspired by the Cotopaxi one of the best trips in Ecuador. Take a walk on volcanic sand trails and feel the fresh air of the Andes. Feel the height sensation from the Jose Rivas volcanic refuge located at 15,748 feet. Fun and adventure wait for you at the almost perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone. Perfect place to walk with your friends and test yourself. Visit and photography a mesotrophic lagoon which houses some native birds or migratory. Wildlife can be seen crossing from the entrance to the high spot of the Cotopaxi National Park. To enjoy a better experience during this tour, we recommend bringing a camera with a telephoto lens or binoculars.
What you get
About this experience
Contemplate the highest active volcano in Ecuador. The snow-capped volcano tops out 19,337 feet above sea level. Cotopaxi National Park is the most-visited tourist attraction in Ecuador Mainland. Discover more than a mountain in this volcanic complex full of biological diversity. Get inspired by the Cotopaxi one of the best trips in Ecuador. Take a walk on volcanic sand trails and feel the fresh air of the Andes. Feel the height sensation from the Jose Rivas volcanic refuge located at 15,748 feet. Fun and adventure wait for you at the almost perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone. Perfect place to walk with your friends and test yourself. Visit and photography a mesotrophic lagoon which houses some native birds or migratory. Wildlife can be seen crossing from the entrance to the high spot of the Cotopaxi National Park. To enjoy a better experience during this tour, we recommend bringing a camera with a telephoto lens or binoculars.
What's included
Included
- Pick up from Quito City or Airport
- Private transportation
- Expert Guide
Not included
- Travel Insurance
- Lunch
- Tips
What you'll see and do
Quito
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 without stopping
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.
20 minutes here
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
90 minutes here · Admission included
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.
30 minutes here
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.
45 minutes here
Quito
Finally, we drive back to the city of Quito to drop you off at the same meeting point.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Galapagos My World
Know before you go
- 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
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 19 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Physical effort
5 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
19 verified traveler reviews for Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Strenuously Awesome Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi! Higher by far than any mountain in the lower 48, and an active volcano. There are two ways to get to the refuge. The short way, which our guide Eduardo called "the heartbreaker." You can see the roof of the refuge from the start of this trail, but it is very steep and 3-4 inches (or more) deep in sand. The easier way, which we took, is long. Seemed like it had a hundred switchbacks. I am very slow and Eduardo was frequently checking on me. When we reached the refuge it started snowing and the snow continued throughout our ride back down the mountain. The refuge itself was fascinating. The red tile roof made me think I was in the Himalayas. There was very little light inside, mainly from the windows. Pictures of the flags of the world were posted on the walls and you were supposed to sign the flag from your country. The flag of Uruguay was at our table and we met several people from there. The refuge served hot chocolate, potato soup and chicken soup. A word about coca tea, which has been suggested to prevent altitude sickness: not for people with high blood pressure! I live at 6000 feet in the US and went up to 14000 feet a couple weeks before Cotopaxi, so that 16000 foot hike was not a problem. If you live at a lower elevation wait a few days to acclimatize. And taking it slow is ok! Thank you, Eduardo, for your patience.
via Viator
Incredible scenery
Amazing tour! Our guide was friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. We took our time on the hike to enjoy the scenery and catch our breath! It wasn’t too difficult and we saw people of all ages doing it! The lagoon was a nice surprise so many birds and beautiful surroundings
via Viator
Expert Guide, Convenient Service, Great Experience!
Our tour of Cotopaxi was everything we hoped for, and we absolutely could not have done it without the help of Eduardo, our extremely knowledgeable guide. He went above and beyond to ensure that our transportation to the site was easy and convenient. He expertly navigated some very rough terrain, which is necessary to cross in order to reach the volcano. His help and patience were crucial in our completion of this high altitude hike, and we felt great about our accomplishment in having done so. Eduardo was also very adept at spotting and identifying local wildlife to enrich our experience even more. We valued his guidance very much and recommend his services to anyone who wants to take this particular tour or any other that he offers.
via Tripadvisor
Had a fantastic experience with our knowledgeable guide!
We had a fantastic time on our tour with Eduardo. He was a good driver and very knowledgeable on all the sights we saw along the way. The hike up to the refuge is strenuous if you’re not an experienced hiker, and be sure to pack hiking gear and warm clothing. The lagoon is an easier walk and we got to see a lot of flora, fauna and some birds. Would highly recommend this tour if prefer your own pace and you don’t want to be with a large group.
via Tripadvisor
Excelente experiencia
"Visited Cotopaxi with family; its majestic beauty and pristine landscapes made for unforgettable moments." Let me know if you need any changes!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $125 to $249
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Galapagos My World, who run 10 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.7.
See everything Galapagos My World runsWhy this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.
How much does Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour cost?
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Prices start at $125 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.
Is Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 19 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour?
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Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
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On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Quito?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Quito?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour?
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Included: Pick up from Quito City or Airport; Private transportation; and Expert Guide. Not included: Travel Insurance; Lunch; and Tips. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 25 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Cotopaxi Volcano & Birdwatching Full-Day Tour?
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Across 19 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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