Ecuador Highlands Adventure: Quito, Cotopaxi & Quilotoa – A Perfect Galápagos Extension
Designed as the perfect complement to your Galápagos adventure, this 5-day journey offers a striking contrast to the islands—highlighting Ecuador’s rich cultural heritage and dramatic highland landscapes. Begin in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial charm and Andean character, before heading into the mountains for a stay at a traditional hacienda beneath the towering Cotopaxi Volcano. Ride horseback to scenic viewpoints, cook with locals on the slopes of Rumiñahui, explore the wild beauty of Cotopaxi National Park, and hike around the brilliant turquoise waters of Quilotoa Crater Lake. While at the hacienda, you’ll also have the option to try additional adventures such as mountain biking, e-biking, high ropes courses, or trekking Rumiñahui—available for an added fee. With a thoughtful blend of cultural immersion, light adventure, and relaxed pacing, this itinerary offers a well-rounded and memorable highland experience.
Highlights
Discover Quito’s historic Old Town with a local guide
Stay at a scenic highland hacienda beneath Cotopaxi Volcano
Horseback ride or hike to panoramic viewpoints
Explore Cotopaxi National Park’s dramatic volcanic landscapes
Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Quito – Settle In
Upon arrival at the Quito airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team and transferred to a charming, centrally located boutique hotel in the heart of the city. This afternoon and evening are free for you to relax, explore the neighborhood, and enjoy dinner at your leisure.
Day 2
Discover Quito’s History & Journey to the Highlands
After breakfast, your local guide will meet you at your hotel for a guided exploration of Quito. As Ecuador’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quito is known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and vibrant street life, nestled high in the Andes at nearly 9,350 feet (2,850 meters) above sea level. You’ll explore the Old Town’s cobblestone streets, ornate churches, and bustling plazas, learning about Ecuador’s rich history and culture.
In the late afternoon, you’ll head out in a private vehicle for the scenic drive to your highland hacienda. As you ascend into the heart of the Andes, the landscape transforms into a majestic panorama of volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and rolling hills. Your home for the evening is a beautifully restored hacienda nestled beneath the towering Cotopaxi Volcano, offering a peaceful escape in a remote and tranquil setting. The hacienda’s rustic charm blends perfectly with its natural surroundings, where you can unwind and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Settle in and savor a delicious homemade dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients, as the evening settles in around you.
Day 3
Horseback Ride to El Mirador & Cooking in the Clouds
You’ll head into the Andean countryside for a scenic horseback ride to El Mirador—a viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Later, you’ll take part in a hands-on cooking class at a working ranch located on the slopes of Ruminahui Volcano, learning to prepare local Ecuadorian dishes while surrounded by lush, misty highland forest.
(Note: If preferred, this horseback ride can be replaced with a guided trek on the slopes of Rumiñahui Volcano—exclusive trails accessible directly from Hacienda El Porvenir.)
Day 4
Cotopaxi National Park Exploration & Afternoon Spa
Cotopaxi is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, located in a stunning national park just outside Quito. You’ll spend the day hiking or exploring the park’s rugged terrain, high-altitude lakes, and sweeping grasslands. In the afternoon, relax at a mountain lodge spa with hot tub and sauna with massage available for an additional fee, or to unwind.
Day 5
Full-Day Quilotoa & Transfer to Airport
Quilotoa is a spectacular volcanic crater lake with brilliant turquoise water, located high in the Andes. You’ll hike along its rim or down to the lake itself, taking in views of the dramatic surrounding cliffs. After the excursion, you will be driven in a private vehicle to Quito’s airport in time for your international flight or next adventure.
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||
| Dec 08, 2025 to Dec 12, 2025 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Dec 17, 2025 to Dec 21, 2025 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| 2026 | ||
| Jan 05, 2026 to Jan 09, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Feb 08, 2026 to Feb 12, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Mar 30, 2026 to Apr 03, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| May 04, 2026 to May 08, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Jun 08, 2026 to Jun 12, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Jun 29, 2026 to Jul 03, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Nov 02, 2026 to Nov 06, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Dec 07, 2026 to Dec 11, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
| Dec 16, 2026 to Dec 20, 2026 Lowest Tier Pricing | $1,295£0€0$0$0 | $1,295£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
2025 & 2026 Pricing:
2 guests: $1,825 per person
4-6 guests: $1,545 per person
8+ guests: $1,285 Per person
Single Supplement: $285
These trips are available to depart from Quito any day of the week. Contact us to schedule your Andean Highland adventure as an extension to your Galápagos tour, as part of a broader Ecuador journey, or as a memorable standalone experience.
Included
Accommodation
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
One soft drink per meal
All described activities
Gear for activities
Licensed English-speaking guide
Private transport during the tour
Entrance to APU Mountain Spa (wet area)
Entrance to Quilotoa
Optional Excursions
Prices subject to 15% VAT
Mountain Biking
Half Day: $26.10
Full Day: $35.10
E-Biking
Half Day: $44.10
Full Day: $53.10
High Ropes Course
Adults: $17.10
Children (under 12): $13.50
Rumiñahui Trek (approx. 5 hours, includes packed lunch)
Adults: $45.00
Children: $36.00
Not Included
International flight tickets
Travel and medical insurance
Massages
Optional kayaking in Quilotoa Lake
Alcoholic beverages
Personal expenses and gratuities
Anything not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary
Reviews
FAQ & More
What’s the altitude like on this trip, and will I feel it?
Yes, altitude is a factor. Quito sits at 9,350 ft (2,850 m), and some activities take place at even higher elevations. Most travelers adjust with rest, hydration, and light activity on arrival day. If you have concerns, consult your doctor before travel.
Is this trip family-friendly?
Absolutely—children of all ages are welcome, and there are family-friendly activity options like horseback riding, cooking class and high ropes courses.
When can I take this trip?
These trips are available to depart from Quito any day of the week. We’ll coordinate your highland adventure to fit with your Galápagos tour, other Ecuador travel, or as a standalone experience.
What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a beautiful highland hacienda set just below Cotopaxi Volcano—rustic-chic, comfortable, and immersed in stunning Andean scenery.
Is the horseback ride beginner-friendly?
Yes! The ride to El Mirador is suitable for all levels, including beginners. It’s a relaxed pace with great views, and you can opt for a guided hike instead if preferred.
Can I visit Cotopaxi Volcano up close?
Absolutely. You’ll spend a full day exploring Cotopaxi National Park, where you can hike and take in dramatic views of the towering volcano and its surrounding páramo landscape.













Add your review