Mini stay / Speaking English Guide
Visited Area : Andes
Activities in this tour:
Short Walk – Tourism and Cultural Discovery
Nivel 
Easy * From 65 $
Program: Quito – Cotopaxi National Park – Quito
Note: It is possible to combine the visit to the Saquisilí market with the excursion to Cotopaxi National Park (the market takes place only on Thursday mornings) by departing earlier from Quito.
Departure at 8:00 a.m. from Quito in a private vehicle towards Cotopaxi National Park. Stop at the shores of Limpiopungo Lagoon, at 3,800 meters above sea level, to observe the Andean páramo and local wildlife. Hike from the parking area at 4,500 m up to the José Ribas Refuge (4,864 m altitude; approximately 45 minutes of ascent and 364 meters of elevation gain). Picnic lunch. Excursion along the edge of the glacier (1 hour). Visit to the park’s museum before returning to Quito.
Walking time: approximately 4 hours
Terrain type: sandy trails and rocky paths in the upper part of the volcano, with occasional snow
+/- 500 meters ascent – +/- 500 meters descent
Private transport
English Speaking Guide
Lunch
Entrances and activities
Park entrance fee – free of charge to date
Personal expenses and tips
Departures every day
Departures are confirmed with a minimum of 2 participants
Precautions:
Due to the type of terrain and the altitude, as well as the reduced oxygen levels, participants must report any symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, excessive sweating, vomiting, or pain in the stomach or chest area.
These symptoms are related to altitude sickness, and once informed, the guide will take the necessary measures to ensure your well-being and safety.
Attention:
The program may be canceled or modified if the minimum number of participants is not reached, if weather conditions, or other exceptional circumstances affect the proper operation of the tour.
In the event of a natural disaster, social or political issues, road closures, or other situations, we will find an alternative solution while trying to alter the program as little as possible. Otherwise, a partial refund will be issued, deducting any expenses already incurred.
Additional information and required conditions:
Minimum age: Not applicable
Required physical condition: Good physical condition
Required experience: Not necessary
Altitude: From 3,800 to 4,864 meters and close to 5,000 meters (depending on the group)
Difficulty level: Easy
Walking time: 4 hours
Total program duration: 8 hours
Terrain type: Trails of volcanic ash, rock, and snow near the glacier
Elevation gain: 500 meters
Climate: Partly cloudy with possible isolated rain showers, especially between March and May. From December to January, there is a possibility of snowfall; the rest of the year is drier with moderate winds
Location: Eastern Cordillera
Required clothing: Gloves, hat, waterproof jacket and pants, thermal clothing, good hiking boots
Recommended personal equipment: small backpack, trekking poles, sunglasses, sunscreen.
