Andes, Climbing, Trekking

Ecuador 5-Day Andes Adventure – Cotopaxi Glacier, Quilotoa Crater & Baños

980

/ per person
Difficulty

Easy

Duration

5Days / 4 Night

Max altitude

5000 m./ 16404.2 ft.

OVERVIEW:

Discover the best of Ecuador’s Andes in 5 days—hike around the stunning Quilotoa Crater, explore Cotopaxi’s glacier, and relax in the charming town of Baños with its waterfalls and hot springs. A perfect mix of adventure, nature, and culture.

Day- by-Day Itinerary

Day1: Welcome to the Andes

Day2: Cotopaxi Glacier Adventure

Day3: Hike into Quilotoa Crater & Travel to Baños

Day4: Waterfalls & Wellness in Baños

Day5: Leisure Morning & Return to Quito

DETAILED ITINERARY

Begin your adventure in El Chaupi, a quiet village in the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Settle into Ilinizas Mountain Lodge and take easy acclimatization walks with views of Iliniza, Corazón, and Cotopaxi.

Max Altitude

3,300 m (10,827 ft)

Meals

Dinner

Accomodation

Ilinizas Mountain Lodge

Duration

Arrival and acclimatization day

After breakfast, venture into Cotopaxi National Park for a high-altitude hike to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 m. If weather allows, continue to the glacier line. After the trek, relax at the charming Hacienda La Ciénega.

Max Altitude

4,864 m (15,958 ft)

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hacienda La Ciénega (historic Andean hacienda)

Duration

Full-day hike and transfer

Travel to Quilotoa Volcano and hike down to its striking turquoise crater lake. After enjoying the peaceful surroundings, head to Baños, Ecuador’s adventure hub, and settle into hotel for the night.

Max Altitude

3,914 m (12,841 ft)

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel in Baños

Duration

Full-day excursion and transfer

Spend the day reconnecting with nature and yourself in Baños. Visit the stunning Pailón del Diablo waterfall, soak in natural hot springs, or enjoy optional spa treatments and adventure activities. A perfect break to relax and recharge.

Max Altitude

1,820 m (5,971 ft)

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

Hotel in Baños

Duration

Free day for rest and activities

Enjoy a slow morning in Baños—stroll through town, sip fresh juice, or take a final soak in the hot springs. Around midday, begin the scenic drive back to Quito, where your Andean adventure comes to an end.

Max Altitude

2,850 m (9,350 ft)

Meals

Breakfast

Accomodation

---

Duration

Morning at leisure and return transfer

SERVICES

Include
• Experienced bilingual local guides
•All private transportation
•4 nights in Mountain Lodge, Hotels and Haciendas with History 
•All park and community entrance fees
•Meals as specified in the itinerary

•Cultural interaction and support for local communities

•Oxygen kit and basic first-aid support
Not include
• Flights (international and domestic)
•Travel insurance (required)
•Alcoholic beverages and personal snacks
•Optional tours and spa services in Baños
•Tips for guides and drivers

PRICES AND DATES

2–3 participants:
$1,250 USD per person
4–6 participants:
$1,180 USD per person
7+ participants:
$980 USD per person

IMPORTANT DETAILS

In Ecuador you can Climb all year, but these are the seasons

High Season: June to August / December to January
Low season: February to May / September to November

Ecuador is a fantastic destination that offers plenty of options for travel lovers. In addition to the Andes, Galápagos and Amazon Jungle are also part of this amazing land.

About this tour

Difficulty: Demanding

Places: ✅ *Available

Trip-code: Number 🔺Ec +593

Duration: 5 days

Participants: Minimum: 2 Maximum: 12

Mountain Guide: Fernando Iza

Other dates / additional info: Contact us!

Legend Booking-information

EZZ – Single room supplement

MAPS

EQUIPMENT

  1. Warm hat/ Wool Cap
  2. Sunglasses
  3. Buff
  4. Base layers
  5. Daypack (25–35L)
  6. Gloves
  7. Waterproof jacket
  8. Trekking Poles
  9. Trekking Pants
  10. Trekking boots or Shoes
  11. Trekking Sicks
  12. Fleece jacket or down jacket.
  13. Quick-dry shirts
  14. Sun hat or cap
  15. Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
  16. Headlamp
  17. First aid kit

🙋‍♂️ Frequently Asked Questions – Ecuador 5-Day Andes Adventure

1.What is included in the 5-day Andes Adventure tour?

This guided tour includes all transportation from Quito, accommodation for 4 nights, all breakfasts and some meals, bilingual certified guides, entrance fees to Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa, glacier hike gear (if needed), and activities as described in the itinerary.

The glacier hike is a non-technical, high-altitude experience. It involves hiking from the parking lot at 4,600 m to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 m, with the option to reach the edge of the glacier (~5,000 m). It’s physically demanding but doesn’t require climbing skills. Proper acclimatization and moderate fitness are recommended.

Yes, since parts of the trip take place above 3,500 m (11,500 ft), it’s recommended that you spend at least one night at altitude before starting the tour. The itinerary is designed to help with gradual acclimatization, but guests prone to altitude sickness should consult a physician

Essential items include:

Waterproof jacket and warm layers

Comfortable hiking shoes or boots

Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat

Small backpack for day hikes

Reusable water bottle

Swimwear (for hot springs in Baños)
We provide gear for the glacier hike if needed (boots, gaiters, gloves, etc.).

You’ll stay in cozy mountain lodges or eco-lodges near Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, and in a boutique hotel in Baños. Accommodations are selected for their comfort, safety, and scenic location

Expect a mix of cool mountain weather (5–15°C / 41–59°F) in Cotopaxi and Quilotoa, and mild to warm weather (15–25°C / 59–77°F) in Baños. Rain is possible year-round, especially in the afternoons, so bring waterproof layers.

Absolutely! You can add an extra day in Quito, continue to the Amazon or Galápagos, or upgrade accommodations. Contact us directly to customize your experience.

Yes. This tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families with older children (12+), and small groups. You’ll meet like-minded adventurers and be accompanied by local experts every step of the way.

You can book directly through our website or by contacting us via email at info@cotopaxi-travel.com or WhatsApp +593 981 333 483.
Our cancellation policy offers flexibility — free cancellation up to 15 days before departure. For full terms, visit our booking conditions.

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