3-Day Adventure: Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños, Jungle, Quito

Set out on a captivating 3-day adventure through Ecuador’s stunning landscapes, exploring the majestic Cotopaxi National Park, the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake, and the vibrant Amazon jungle. Starting and ending in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Quito, this tour promises an unforgettable journey filled with diverse experiences. From hiking and relaxing in picturesque towns to immersing in the country’s rich biodiversity, this adventure will leave you with memories that linger long after your return. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and the guidance of an English-speaking expert, this tour is sure to exceed your expectations. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that await you.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best 3 Day Tours In Quito.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour explores Ecuador’s diverse landscapes, including Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños, and the Amazon jungle, with guided activities and transportation provided.
• Accommodations include shared rooms with an option for single room upgrade, and the tour operates with a minimum of 2 participants.
• Included amenities cover dinner, private transportation, English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to various sites, while personal expenses and alcoholic beverages are excluded.
• The tour starts with a pickup from the customer’s chosen location, and the operating hours are from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM, Monday to Sunday.
• Packing essentials include appropriate gear for the highlands and jungle, as well as personal items and important documents like a passport.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

Spanning three exhilarating days, this private tour takes adventurers on an immersive journey through the diverse landscapes of Ecuador.

Visiting Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños, and the Jungle, the itinerary offers a well-rounded exploration of the country’s highlights.

Travelers will enjoy accommodation in shared rooms, with an option to upgrade to a single room for a supplemental fee.

While the itinerary is carefully planned, it remains flexible to accommodate potential weather or road conditions.

Regardless, visits to the specified destinations are guaranteed, ensuring a fulfilling and memorable experience for a minimum of two people.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This 3-day adventure includes an extensive list of amenities to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling experience.

Dinner, private transportation, and an English-speaking professional guide are all included. Travelers will also receive rubber boots, life jackets, and access to hotel facilities in the jungle.

Entrance fees to Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and the Rainforest National Park are covered, as well as two lunches and two breakfasts. Gratuities are included too.

However, personal expenses and alcoholic beverages are excluded. This tour provides an all-inclusive adventure with the necessary gear and support to explore Ecuador’s diverse landscapes.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour provider arranges private transportation to pick up customers from their desired departure location.

The start time for the tour is confirmed with the local provider in advance. The opening hours for this 3-day adventure tour are from 1/1/2022 to 11/19/2025, operating Monday through Sunday from 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Customers will coordinate with the tour provider on their preferred departure location and time.

This private tour is available for a minimum of 2 people, with the option to pay a single room supplement of 30% of the final rate per person.

Packing Essentials

When preparing for this 3-day adventure in Ecuador, travelers should pack a variety of gear to ensure they’re equipped for the diverse environments they’ll encounter.

For the highlands, they’ll need light wool, a warm jacket, walking shoes or hiking boots, and a thick sweater to stay comfortable in the 5°C-25°C temperatures.

In the jungle, they should bring lightweight long-sleeve clothing, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, a flashlight, rain gear, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with extra batteries.

Don’t forget to pack a passport, as well.

With the right packing list, travelers can fully enjoy the adventure.

Exploring Quito

Where does the 3-day adventure in Ecuador begin? The tour starts in the capital city of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture.

Visitors will explore the historic Old Town, admiring the ornate churches and bustling plazas. The tour then takes them to La Ronda, a charming neighborhood with cobblestone streets, artisan workshops, and lively cafes.

Travelers can savor the local cuisine, learn about the city’s rich history, and enjoy the vibrant culture.

From Quito, the adventure continues to the stunning landscapes of Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños, and the lush Amazon jungle, offering a diverse and unforgettable experience.

Adventuring in Cotopaxi

From Quito, the adventure continues to the awe-inspiring Cotopaxi National Park.

Cotopaxi is home to the iconic snow-capped volcano, the second-highest peak in Ecuador.

Visitors can explore:

• Hiking trails with stunning views of the volcano
• Visiting the Interpretation Center to learn about the park’s ecology and wildlife
• Trekking to the refugio, a mountain hut at 4,800 meters
• Spotting Andean condors, the world’s largest flying bird
• Experiencing the crisp, clean air and serene alpine environment

This natural wonder offers a thrilling and breathtaking addition to the diverse itinerary.

Discovering Quilotoa

The journey then leads to the stunning Quilotoa, a breathtaking volcanic crater lake located in the Andes mountains.

Visitors are captivated by the vivid emerald-green waters and the dramatic surrounding landscape. Hiking around the crater’s rim offers stunning panoramic views.

Adventurous travelers can even descend into the caldera and swim in the chilly waters. The Quilotoa Loop, a popular multi-day trek, allows explorers to fully enjoy this remarkable volcanic landscape.

Whether taking in the views from above or venturing down into the crater, Quilotoa promises an unforgettable experience amidst Ecuador’s breathtaking natural wonders.

Relaxing in Baños and the Jungle

After marveling at the stunning Quilotoa crater, the adventure continues with a visit to the charming town of Baños and an immersion in the lush Ecuadorian jungle.

Baños, known as the "Gateway to the Amazon," offers a serene respite with its thermal springs, waterfalls, and adventure activities.

Visitors can indulge in:

• Soaking in natural hot springs
• Hiking to nearby waterfalls
• Trying thrilling outdoor sports like ziplining or whitewater rafting
• Exploring the town’s picturesque streets and local markets
• Embarking on a jungle expedition to witness the biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest.

This diverse experience provides the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement, leaving travelers with lasting memories of Ecuador’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

This tour may be suitable for families with young children, as it includes infant seats and is wheelchair accessible. However, the high-altitude and jungle activities may present challenges for young children. Parents should carefully evaluate their children’s abilities before booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Specific Activities?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to include specific activities. Customers can work with the local provider to adjust the itinerary and add or remove elements based on their interests and preferences.

How Experienced Are the Guides in the Different Regions?

The guides are highly experienced in their respective regions, having extensive knowledge of the local areas and activities. They’re skilled at providing informative and engaging tours tailored to the interests and abilities of each group.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Solo Travelers?

Yes, solo travelers must pay a 30% single room supplement fee per person. The tour is priced for double occupancy, so solo travelers will incur an additional charge to have a single room.

Can I Extend My Stay in the Jungle or Other Locations?

Travelers can extend their stay in the jungle or other locations, but they’ll need to coordinate directly with the local provider. Additional costs may apply, and extended stays are subject to availability.

Recap

This 3-day adventure through Ecuador’s stunning landscapes offers an unforgettable experience. Explore the majestic Cotopaxi National Park, the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake, and the vibrant Amazon jungle. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Quito and the picturesque town of Baños, known for its hot springs and waterfalls. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and the guidance of an English-speaking expert throughout the journey.