5.0 · 133 reviews
Bani_S
May 2024
Everything about this was great! Was the perfect way to see all the highlights. Carlos who took us to Banos was the best! So funny and made the whole experience even better and so memorable. Highly recommend!
Chris_U
April 2024
4 stars for a very specific reason: transport on the second day. The positives: The guides we had were exceptional. On our Cotopaxi trip, we had Alejandro. He had an incredible amount of knowledge about Ecuador and it's amazing volcanic landscape. My wife and I really enjoyed chatting to him about everyday life, politics, films etc He was such an approachable guy and we really enjoyed our trip with him. The second day, we had Camilla who took us to Quilatoa. She was very informative, with great knowledge. Her English was absolutely amazing and I was amazed by how quickly and efficiently she switched between Spanish and English. Our third guide on our trip to Banos was Ernesto. Ernesto is a special man, who clearly has a real zest for life. He is a really special guide and we were privileged to have the day with him in Banos. This 3 day trip is great, because it offers a range of different landscapes and activities. Cotopaxi, we saw the national park including lots of the wildlife and then trekked up and down from the base camp. Quilatoa was beautiful but beware, the walk is incredibly difficult on the way back up. In my opinion, it's inhumane to use the mules to take you back up. Banos has a lot of different activities that you can do...and we did them all! Ziplining, swing of the edge of the world, extreme swing, pachamama and waterfalls. It's an amazing city. The negative which took it down to 4 stars: On day two, the bus that transported us to and from Quilatoa had faulty air circulation. I'm sure most of the time this isn't a problem, but the day we went, it was pouring with rain all afternoon. Heavy heavy rain! We were all soaking wet, the bus was steamy but also freezing cold. The driver was wiping his windscreen with a tissue. This shouldn't happen on a trip and could have been dangerous. Please make sure the vehicles used can handle different weather conditions. Apart from that, it really was a fantastic tour and I would encourage anyone reading this review to book it and stay at Chuquiragua Lodge in El Chaupi and Hotel Di Mi Pueblo in Banos.
Yolanda_R
April 2024
One of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Thanks to our fabulous tour guide Irene and Jesy, the driver as well Mauricio and Andres. They give 5 stars services. My trip in Ecuador was wonderful and unforgettable
yolandarizkas
April 2024
The tour was amazing and well organized. My tour guide, Irene is the best, she is communicative and explained all of the things. I give 5 stars for my guide Irene and the driver Mauricio
Tourist653806
February 2024
If you're short on time, definitely recommend this 3 days 2 nights tour with Quito Bus Tour. Please make sure though that you have at least a couple of days to acclimatise to the high altitude at Quito. Note that this tour does not include accommodation but Quito Bus Tour would recommend which hotels to stay in for those 2 nights. We took their advice and the accommodation recommended were all very clean, nicely presented and well priced. The tour works in such a way that every day, we had different people on board and a different tour guide each day. The different days are runned as a day tour as well, hence the different mix of people on the bus/van. So, if you wish to depart/return from/to Quito everyday, you certainly can, but we would suggest that you take up the recommendation at staying at the different points of the tour. By doing so, you won't need to spend as much time on the bus/van by leaving early in the morning from Quito and getting back late to Quito. As we were picked up along the way, we had the chance to sleep in and have a relaxing breakfast before we started the day. The same goes for the end of day, where we were dropped off first, which gives us time to ease into the night and be prepared for the next day. All the tour guides we had were amazing, passionate and full of knowledge of their country. Andrea (Day 1), Adrian (Day 2) and Irene (Day 3) were our awesome tour guides. Day 1 - Cotopaxi - will have to be the most physical day as we didn't get much time to acclimatise to the high altitude. 2 of us did not make the whole hike to base camp due to altitude sickness but 2 of us did - Yay! The hike will take about 1 hour going at a slow and steady pace. Views on the way up were spectacular. Dress up as it can get very cold, gloves, waterproof jacket and even a beanie is a good idea. It started raining while we were hiking and there were thunderstorms. An incredible experience. Day 2 - Quilotoa - A much more relaxing day whereby you trek down to the lake but have to hike up. If you don't have the strength to hike up, there are horses that you can hire to take you back up. Wasn't expensive - sorry can't remember exact cost ~USD1-3.. Alternatively, stay up and enjoy the restaurants and a quiet walk about the town buying souvenirs. Oh, we also stopped by a local farmer's place where they rear guinea pigs and taught us about the local produce. Day 3 - Banos - What a great way to finish the trip. Much more than what we expected and an exciting day especially for our teenagers to finish travelling around Ecuador. We've been to many waterfalls but this one, knocks many out of the park. A totally relaxing, amusing, entertaining day with our energetic tour guide, Irene. Communication from start to finish (via WhatsApp) was fantastic with the Quito Bus Tour. As we were travelling from Australia and with limited days on mainland Ecuador, we couldn't afford any spare time to organise trips when we arrived. This was all done prior to our arrival. Again, the staff at Quito Bus Tour were organised and even asked us to confirm pick up points a couple of times prior to our arrival. We were only going to visit Galapagos Islands and then return to Australia but we are extremely glad that we had a few days on the mainland. Our experience on the mainland was as good as the experience we had on the Galapagos, all very unique and wonderful in its own rights. Our only regret was not having more days to visit the other amazing sites. A trip of a lifetime..... thank you Ecuador.... with well wishes and fond memories from us in Australia.
NestorJames_C
January 2024
Irene was our tour guide during our visit to Cotopaxi. She’s full of energy and excitement and bubbly. But what really set off her passion and job was when she waited with the tour participants along a very busy highway a Bus heading to Cuenca. Cotipaxi is amazing, hike is a little challenge for me but with a little motivation and push to myself. I got to the top We didn’t complete the 3DAY. This review is for Cotopaxi only
daniellek013
January 2024
I recently had an incredible experience on the 3 day Andes adventure tour with our tour guide Adrian and driver Jimmy. Adrian's fun and laid back demeanor along with his knowledge of the local area, and insights into customs and traditions made this tour both fun and informative. Adrian provided expert guidance for the hard hike up Cotopaxi and made sure everyone in the group remained safe and together. He answered all of our questions about Ecuador's landscape and history, and even went out of his way to ensure we got safely back to our hotel which was a bit off the beaten path. He made our day in Banos so fun and made sure we got to do tons of activities like taking a cable car through a waterfall, gong to the swing at the end of the world which he provided us some extra local history that most tourists don't get, and even made sure to add extra activities to our itinerary he knew our group would enjoy like the hot springs, and ziplining through the jungle and a local fruit tasting he created just for us. Jimmy's skillful navigation through the mountainous terrain ensured a safe and comfortable ride. This tour was really great because we got to pack in all the top sights and things to do in the short amount of time that we had and it was made easy with the transportation all included, and fun that our group became a little family for 3 days. I highly recommend this tour for anyone travelling to Ecuador on a limited amount of time.
BrandonJ1437
January 2024
Had a great experience with Irene from Quito Bus Tours. She was very knowledgeable and you could tell she was passionate about her job. Because of her I am more curious about Ecuador’s 84 volcanoes. I came in expecting nothing and got a whole lot more knowledge and appreciation for Ecuador.
Tmima_G
December 2023
This tour was amazing!!! We took the full 3 day version. Our daughter is 20 years old and the three of us loved it and want to visit Ecuador again. Adrian was the perfect Tour Guide and took every chance to assist , guide, and coordinate so the experience was smooth and fun for everyone in the group. He made us feel like a family for 3 days . Jimmy was reliable taking us through the beautiful winding roads of the Andes. They both went the extra mile 😎. The activities were adventurous in every sense. From climbing a part of Cotopaxi, to visiting authentic indigenous communities, to hiking and swinging (the End of the World Swing), it was awesome! If you have that sense of adventure in you, you’ll love every minute. Be ready to hike in very high altitude. Consider acclimatising a few days in Quito first if you live at sea level. We are vivid hikers and it was instrumental to listen to Adrian who advised us about the pace so we could enjoy it all.
D5893VPalexandera
December 2023
The tour was well organized. It is worth noting you will get a new group of people and new tour guide each day. All were fantastic and were enjoyable to hang out with and learn from.
Jason_H
November 2023
We had an awesome guide in Josue. He was very knowledgeable about the area and did all the experiences with us. Cotopaxi hike to the first refuges was amazing. Quilotoa is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. And Banos was fun. Company was great to work with when our flight was delayed. Definitely recommend (and ask for Josue).
Karen_P
November 2023
This was a great way to experience three different regions without returning to Quito every night. The guides were wonderful and communication around all the transfers was good!
garybF6758KG
November 2023
We did the 3-day, 2-night Banos Bus Tour. We had an amazing time! We hiked up Mt Cotapaxi, down to Quilotoa lake, visited an Andean family and the Banos hot springs and other attractions in Banos and had delicious cuisine. The tour guides (Gorgsway (sp?) and Josue Quijano) both did a great job and are outstanding communicators. I love Ecuador and can't wait to return! I highly recommend Quito Tour Bus.
kath1514
November 2023
This 3-day trip provided an accelerated opportunity to view 3 different major destinations into a limited time frame. It is comprised of what are 3 separate day trips from Quito, so a different group of travelers each day and destination, combined with a drop off for anyone overnighting nearby on the two nights such as us, at whatever accommodation you have selected (that’s up to you to book). It’s a bit of a coordination juggling for the travel group but they go out of their way to ensure you get to your lodging and always with a smile on their face! It also eliminated the back and forth for us to Quito and allowed a little more time to experience a new location . The guides we had were excellent: Joshue for day 1 to Cotopaxi and Jessie for both day 2 &3 (Quilatoa & Banos). We were thrilled to have Jessie a 2nd day as she is such a fun and knowledgeable guide. We thoroughly enjoyed this whirlwind trip and if you are pressed for time do highly recommend it!
Compass46678050120
October 2023
i had a great time during this 3-day-long trip. Everything was very well organized, the staff was really helpful, nice and professional. Worth it, do it! :)
Chase_M
October 2023
To put it simply, this adventurous loop is absolutely fantastic. Not only is the company excellent, but each of their guides brings a unique flair and has an amazing level of understanding and willingness to share, not just about the things in front of you, but about the broader context. They truly care not only about your experience, but about the country and the people (and animals) in it. Cotopaxi. Absolutely astonishing to have done. Not only are the views (weather permitting) absolutely breathtaking throughout, but the sense of satisfaction upon reaching the camp is amazing. It is a harder hike than you think. Take your time, listen to your body, and drink the coca tea - bring leaves to chew on and stick up in your gums. We had a group of 7 (plus the guide), one almost turned back partway (I gave him some leaves and he made it) and another got sick at the top (but was otherwise fine). Carlos was our guide and he was stupendous. He was funny, knowledgeable, honest, and - when folks were struggling, was a great coach and encourager. We were so lucky to get him for this day in particular. I almost forgot... feeding the animals carrots at the restaurant after a day of hiking is truly a special joy. We stayed at Chuquiragua Lodge in El Chaupi overnight. Rooms are inexpensive, but are basic accommodations, and the dinner was fairly expensive. But, absolutely gorgeous views in the morning and cute cows. Great place to relax in the quiet after a long day. Quilotoa. We had 8 or 9 folks in our group this day. An example of this company being excellent is that they tell you the truth about the horses/mules - don't ride them - they are abused. It is a harder hike than Cotopaxi if you go all the way down and then back up, so assess your situation and plan accordingly. The best views are from the top anyways! Stopping to see Julian and in Tigua at the gallery was a great mini-cultural tour. Julian is a Quichua man who has lived in the same rural hour for 50 years - he is clearly very proud and excited to share about his life with visitors. I feel very lucky to have met him. Long ride to Baños - we stayed at Hotel Donde Ivan. Baños has a TON of good food and a great night life - since we didn't have to go all the way to Quito and back for the next day we were able to enjoy it. Hotel Donde Ivan is a good value - the breakfast is great - the rooms are basic, but the price is right. Baños day - we had Alejandro. Maybe it's that it was just my one person, my friend, and I, but Alejandro was our absolute favorite guide. Willing to chat about anything, adapted on the fly when we didn't want to go ziplining and wanted to do a hike instead - knowledgeable, patient, not impositional - just fantastic. The "swing" is a bit touristy, but you can't help but feel a little bit of childlike glee while doing it. The candy factory is a fun mini-tour and honestly a great place to get treats to bring back home. The waterfalls though. Pictures can't capture the majesty. You can hypothetically book each of these as separate tours, returning to Quito each day. Most people do that. Let me tell you that they are FOOLS. This is ABSOLUTELY the way to go. Less time travelling, more time relaxing, sleeping, and enjoying yourself. It is a jam-packed three days but you will have a fantastic time and really get a feel for what the highlands are like. This set of tours has turned me into a brand evangelist for Ecuador - if you're thinking about it, just do it. You wont' regret it.
Povilas_P
August 2023
First day was amazing. Mauricio (Driver) and Adrian (Guide) took good care of us even we were only 2 English-speakers in a group of 17. Climb to Cotopaxi was quite demanding, but we managed to reach our destination. Make sure to bring a passport if you want a stamp! After that we went for a delicious lunch, and finally reached cosy hotel with beautiful garden and view to Cotopaxi. Second and third days were even better. On our way to Quilotoa with new guide Josué and driver Alberto we visited locals, learned about food, culture and history. Chewing Coca leaves on the way down to crater lake we were mesmerized by the view. After the kayaking and a joyous climb up, we tasted local specialty - Guinea pig. Day was crowned within hot spring baths in Baños. Third day was dedicated to waterfalls and adventures. We started the day on a swing in the front of the Volcano followed by 2 km track of zip-lining through the jungles. Stunning waterfalls and nature, delicious fruits and food. All of the activities were supplemented by interesting stories and history. With Josué, we felt like with a friend on a wonderful trip. We’d be glad to join him in future adventures. Note that not all of the experiences are included in the price. On the other hand prices are not high in general. We recommend buying Coca leaves in advance to help with altitude sickness. All our questions about the trip were answered by the support so we started the trip with calm hearts.
833lillyz
August 2023
Love the entire 3 days of the excursion. The sightseeing was not only naturally phenomenal but made extra special with the tour guides, Adrian and Vero, explaining the history behind all locations. They kept us very active the entire three days with every activity like ziplining and hiking were fun and worth every minute. I would recommend to take extra clothes and go fully prepared for the walking and hiking since the weather can change at any minute but nothing that one can’t bare. To add, I had the tour guides and drivers, especially Adrian and Jimmy, go the above and beyond to retrieve my wedding guest dress I accidentally forgot in a tour van the first day. On Day 3 they made extra calls to arrange pickup and drove an extra 30 minutes just for me to get the dress before flying out to another city in Ecuador two hours before the flight. Please don’t hesitate to book your tour especially if you can request your tour guides and drivers. 100% recommend this adventure.
mollieg66
July 2023
This tour is definitely good value for money. The tour guides have an extensive knowledge of Ecuador and they’re very happy to share it. Ecudaor has so many beautiful places this tour you will get to see a lot of them! You get to do a lot in a few days. Ernesto was so friendly and showed us so much about the culture. Aljandro also is a great tour guide! This tour is definitely something you should do at least once in your life.
Intrepid T
June 2023
Great tour to see the top sights outside of Quito in the beautiful picturesque country of Ecuador. We started the tour on day one by hiking to the Cotopaxi refuge, before heading to Quilotoa Lake and Banos on day 2 and 3. The guides were friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating. We're especially grateful to our tour guide Carlos who spent two days taking us around the all the key sights and sounds, and was very flexible to accommodate our requests as we were the only two guests on the tour at the time. Highly recommend this 3 day tour if you want to see all the key highlights over a short space of time.

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