Exploring Baños and Cotopaxi Volcano in 2 Days / 1 Night

We´ll drive from Quito through Andean Volcanoes Avenue heading south to the Cotopaxi National Park; once in the park we'll visit a natural museum to learn about its nature, geology, history and eruptions of Cotopaxi volcano (5897m). Our next stop is at Limpiopungo Lake (3800 mts.) where we'll make an acclimatizing walk while observing some variety of birds like ducks, eagles and Andean gulls. Afterwards we drive to the parking lot (4600 mts.) from here on clear days we have incredible view of the Andean landscape. If our condition is good there is a chance to hike up for 45 minute to the José Ribas refuge (4800 mts.) where you can taste a delicious hot chocolate for warmth. Then in the afternoon continue driving to Baños town which is based 1 1/2 hour far away and consider one of the most visited towns by tourist with many activities to offer.

The town is known for its naturally heated thermal baths, the namesake of Baños, Ecuador and adventure sports! Nearby Baños, there are several mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and hot springs.

This is a super famous place to visit, also known as the Swing at the End of the World located just 20 minutes driving from the main town. It’s a little treehouse with swings on either side that go over the steep slope of the mountain. The swing overlooks the Tungurahua volcano, which is an amazing sight on a clear day.

Visit the route known as the “Ruta de las Cascadas”, or “Waterfall Road”. It lives up to it’s name. There are three tunnels on the way. These are for motor vehicles. If you want to survive the trip, do not enter these tunnels on bike. Along the way, you’ll see tons of really nice waterfalls along the way such as Agoyan, Manto de la Novia and others. These include some cable cars and zip lines sending every visitor over a gorge with a pretty view.

Once getting on to the Pailon del Diablo, there are two paths to can take to see the waterfall which offer a different experience. The Lower path takes you down through an area that has a really nice jungle feel to it. It’s a bit more of a hike, but you’ll be able to get to a little suspension bridge that will take you across the river where you can get a really awesome view of the waterfall. If you want a shorter hike and more of a view of the actual waterfall up close, take the upper path. Finally afternoon it's time to back to Quito.