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
Day 1 – Welcome to the Andes
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
Day 2 – Cotopaxi Glacier Adventure
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
Day 3 – Hike into Quilotoa Crater & Travel to Baños
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
Day 4 – Waterfalls & Wellness in Baños
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
Day 5 – Leisure Morning & Return to Quito
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
•Cultural interaction and support for local communities
Not include
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
- On this trip, places are still available.
- On this trip, only a few places left.
- This trip is sold out / closed.
MAPS
EQUIPMENT
- Warm hat/ Wool Cap
- Sunglasses
- Buff
- Base layers
- Daypack (25–35L)
- Gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking Poles
- Trekking Pants
- Trekking boots or Shoes
- Trekking Sicks
- Fleece jacket or down jacket.
- Quick-dry shirts
- Sun hat or cap
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Headlamp
- 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.
2.Is the Cotopaxi Glacier hike difficult?
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.
3.Do I need to be acclimatized for this trip?
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
4.What should I bring?
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.).
5.Where will we sleep during the trip?
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
6.What is the weather like during this trip?
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.
7.Can I customize or extend the itinerary?
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.
8. Is this tour family-friendly or suitable for solo travelers?
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.
9.How do I book this trip and what’s the cancellation policy?
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.
