3-Day Cotopaxi National Park Tour Packages
Insider tips: Recommended 3-day Cotopaxi National Park tour itineraries
Compiled by
MelissaCotopaxi National Park travel expert at TourRadar
3 Days Cotopaxi Volcano Trek, incl. Quito and Cotopaxi National Park
This 3-day trek through Cotopaxi National Park covers 3 distinct destinations across the Ecuadorian Andes, starting at 3,000m at the Pita River Canyon and climbing to 4,000m at Rumiñahui Base. Walk through Andean forest along the Pita River between Sincholagua and Pasochoa Peaks, then cross ancient lava flows from Cotopaxi's past eruptions before reaching Limpiopungo Lake. You'll stay overnight at Chilcapamba Lodge (3,487m) and Tambopaxi Lodge (3,700m), giving you basecamp access to Ecuador's second-highest volcano at 5,897m.
- Day 1
Quito to Chilcapamba Lodge (3,487m)
Your adventure starts with an early morning drive from Quito to the trailhead at 3,000m elevation. Make sure to pack warm layers since morning temperatures in the Andes can be near freezing. The moderate uphill trek takes you past traditional Andean houses before entering the valley between Sincholagua and Pasochoa peaks. You'll walk alongside the Pita River with its impressive waterfalls cutting through native Andean forest. Plan to reach Chilcapamba Lodge before the 6pm sunset to properly adjust to the altitude.
- Day 2
Chilcapamba to Tambopaxi Lodge (3,700m)
Start your day with breakfast before a 20-minute drive east to Pita River Canyon. Today's 5-6 hour trek begins here. The path takes you through Andean forest and along the river where you can spot ancient lava flows from previous Cotopaxi eruptions. The landscape becomes increasingly volcanic as you get closer to Tambopaxi Lodge. Hiking poles are a must for navigating the loose volcanic terrain. At 3,700m elevation remember to stay hydrated and try some coca tea to help with altitude adjustment.
- Day 3
Tambopaxi to Rumiñahui Base (4,000m) to Quito
Your final 4-5 hour hike explores the base areas of Cotopaxi and Rumiñahui volcanoes. Get an early start to see the peaks in morning light and avoid afternoon cloud cover. The trail takes you past Limpiopungo Lake where you can spot Andean waterfowl and caracaras. Good waterproof boots are essential since the páramo ground can be wet even during dry season. The trek finishes at Rumiñahui's base at 4,000m before heading back to Quito where you'll arrive around 4pm.
3 Days in Quito, incl. Historic Center and Middle of the World
Quito unfolds over three memorable days, with seamless airport transfers and 2 nights at Hotel Quito. A full-day guided excursion showcases dramatic volcanic vistas, rich cultural heritage, and the city's historic heart.
- Day 1
Arrival and Acclimatization in Quito
Plan for a 1-hour trip from Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport to your hotel. Try to arrive mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid rush hour traffic (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM). This first day is all about taking it slow while your body adjusts to the high altitude of 2,850 meters. Drink plenty of water and look for coca tea at local pharmacies to help with the adjustment. Book your stay in La Floresta or La Mariscal areas for convenient access to restaurants and the historic center.
- Day 2
Historic Center Deep Dive
Get an early start at Quito's traditional market around 8 AM before the crowds fill in. You'll see locals buying fresh fruits, flowers and typical foods in this lively setting. Next up is the neo-Gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional. Bring good shoes if you plan to climb the tower. The stairs are steep metal and can get slippery but the view from the top is spectacular. Skip the highest platforms if heights make you nervous. Spend your afternoon exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town. The Plaza Grande complex and La Compañía de Jesús church are must-sees. Visit the church between 11 AM-2 PM when sunlight illuminates its stunning gold-leaf interior. Walk down Calle La Ronda, a historic street full of character. You can sample Ecuador's famous chocolate for free in the shops here but save your shopping for local markets where prices are better.
- Day 3
Middle of the World and Departure
Start your final day with a trip north to the Equator line. Get there early before tour buses arrive at 10 AM. The Middle of the World monument lets you take photos between hemispheres but the hands-on experiments at the Intiñan Museum often leave a bigger impression. Visit the Pululahua Crater viewpoint before noon when clouds typically block the view of this rare inhabited volcanic crater.
