Tierra de Volcan Adventure in Ecuador’s Andes | Adventure Unbound

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

Volcanic crater in the highlands of Ecuador
A person riding horseback through the Andes on a sunny day
Historic town square of Quito, Ecuador
Lodge along the Andes highlands in Ecuador
People hiking through Cotopaxi National Park
Person hiking through Cotopaxi National Park
Panoramic view of a volcano standing tall and alone in Cotopaxi National Park
People horseback riding past a volcano in the Andes in Ecuador
A colorful lodge in the Andes highlands
Dining room table at a lodge at Tierra de Volcan, Ecuador
Two hot tubs and lounge chairs at the spa at Tierra de Volcan, Ecuador
Cleanly made colorful bed full of Peruvian woven textiles
Volcanic crater in the highlands of Ecuador
A person riding horseback through the Andes on a sunny day
Historic town square of Quito, Ecuador
Lodge along the Andes highlands in Ecuador
People hiking through Cotopaxi National Park
Person hiking through Cotopaxi National Park
Panoramic view of a volcano standing tall and alone in Cotopaxi National Park
People horseback riding past a volcano in the Andes in Ecuador
A colorful lodge in the Andes highlands
Dining room table at a lodge at Tierra de Volcan, Ecuador
Two hot tubs and lounge chairs at the spa at Tierra de Volcan, Ecuador
Cleanly made colorful bed full of Peruvian woven textiles

Itinerary

Collapse all days

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.

ACCOMMODATION : Stay at a beautiful hacienda nestled in the highlands, just under the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.)

ACCOMMODATION : Stay at a beautiful hacienda nestled in the highlands, just under the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

ACCOMMODATION : Stay at a beautiful hacienda nestled in the highlands, just under the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.
MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast & Lunch Box

Dates & Rates

DatesAdult (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

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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.

Custom or Private

You love this itinerary but want to change it a bit to make it perfect for you?  Or, are you wanting to simply make it private?  Either way, we can do it!

Fill out this quick form to begin a custom or private adventure of a lifetime:

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