Hiking in the Cotopaxi Region: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You
4.8
(11 reviews)
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
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FAQs: Hiking in Cotopaxi Region
What should I know about Hiking 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!
Why should I choose Cotopaxi Region for my Hiking adventure?
Cotopaxi volcano and Quilotoa lake
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.
Amazing llama trails
Exploring the Andes with the llamas by your side and discovering tiny indigenous towns on the way is one of the perks of hiking in the Cotopaxi region.
Indigenous towns and markets
This region of Ecuador has a long Inca heritage and beautiful, colorful indigenous towns and markets where you can browse a take back some of the local art and textiles.
What can I expect from the weather during my Hiking trip in Cotopaxi Region?
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.
Which language is predominantly spoken in the Cotopaxi Region region?
Spanish and Quechua
What currency is accepted around Cotopaxi Region?
United States Dollar
How can I get to Cotopaxi Region?
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.
What's the country code for the Cotopaxi Region region?
+593
When is the best time to travel to Cotopaxi Region for Hiking?
During the dry season, from June to September, although December and January are popular as well.
What people are saying about Hiking | Cotopaxi Region
Sarah
The only reason I give 4 to trip rating is that the first hike at Quilotoa was disappointing. The lake was definitely worth seeing but only going down and back up was not great. We would’ve much preferred hiking at least part way along the crater edge. Even if we only had enough time for there and back.
Isabella
The trip was simply great in all aspects! I will return for more
Lara
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!
Evan
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!
Michelle
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.
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