COTOPAXI HIKE AND BIKE
Experience Ecuador’s most iconic volcano with a unique combination of hiking and biking all in one day.
Operating days
This tour operates on: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.
Departure: 07:10 AM from Quito from plaza Fosch or 7:30 San Blas Square.
Minimum: 1 participant (shared basis, subject to availability)
ABOUT THIS TOUR
The Cotopaxi Hike & Bike Day Tour offers a thrilling and accessible way to explore one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural wonders Cotopaxi National Park. This full-day adventure takes you deep into the Andean highlands, combining light hiking, optional mountain biking, and breathtaking landscapes. The highlight of the experience is reaching the Jose Rivas Refuge (4,864 m / 15,748 ft) on the slopes of Cotopaxi Volcano, the highest active volcano in the world. The tour is designed for active travelers who want to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in a single day all without the need for technical climbing skills or prior experience. You’ll also get a taste of local culture, with stops in traditional highland towns and encounters with Andean communities. Whether you’re looking for physical activity, stunning photography, or simply a memorable escape into nature, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, safety, and comfort just 1.5 hours from Quito.
ITINERARY SUMMARY
- 07:10 AM – Departure from Quito.
- Entrance and visit to the Cotopaxi National Park.
- Arrival to the parking lot 4500 m.a.s.l.
- Hike to Jose Rivas Refuge 4,800 m.a.s.l.
- Hike to the lower Glacier 5100 m.a.s.l.
- Glaciar ose Rivas Refuge 4,800 m.a.s.l.
- Return to the Parking Lot.
- Descent by bicicle to the Limpiopungo Lagoon. (Optional).
- Lunch.
- Return to Quito.
ITINERARY
At 07:10 AM, departure from Quito heading south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes toward the spectacular Cotopaxi National Park, one of Ecuadors most iconic natural attractions. Upon arrival, entrance to the protected area and drive through dramatic andean landscapes, highland paramo and volcanic terrain until reaching the parking area at 4,500 meters above sea level, where the adventure begins. From this point, a high altitude hike starts toward the Jose Rivas Refuge, located at 4,800 m.a.s.l., allowing time for acclimatization while enjoying panoramic views of the Cotopaxi volcano and the surrounding national park. For adventure seekers, the experience continues with a trek to the lower glacier, reaching approximately 5,100 m.a.s.l., an unforgettable opportunity to experience the glacier environment, volcanic ice formations and extreme mountain scenery. After the ascent, descent back to the Jose Rivas Refuge and return to the parking area. As an optional activity, guests can enjoy an exciting mountain biking descent across the paramo toward Limpiopungo Lagoon, combining adrenaline, open landscapes and wildlife observation, with stunning views of the volcano reflected on the water. The tour continues with lunch to recover energy, followed by the return to Quito in the afternoon, concluding a full-day adventure travel experience in the Ecuadorian Andes.
PRICES PER PERSON
$81.00 USD
SHARING BASIS
INCLUDED:
- English speaking guide.
- Authorized tourist transportation.
- Menu-style lunch.
- Bicycle and helmet.
Entry permits to protected areas.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Extra food and beverages.
- Gratuities.
- Snacks.
Recommended Gear

- Comfortable and warm clothes, windbreaker (optional).
- Gloves, neck and ear protection, sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Comfortable shoes for walking in mountainous terrain and sand.
- Camera










