The Secret Garden Cotopaxi

If you're even thinking about doing Cotopaxi or any of the surrounding hikes, you have to stay here. Don't do a day trip, don't find another hotel, stay here. The setting is breathtaking -- beautiful views of the Volcano and surrounding mountains. The food is superb. The rooms (we stayed in the hobbit homes) are so cozy, The staff was extremely friendly and helpful. I also have to note the convenience of the daily shuttle. Getting to Cotopaxi National Park is challenging. Secret Garden's shuttle made it so easy, we barely had to think about it.

We had a wonderful stay from start to finish, from the free transport from Quito to the welcome on arrival. We stayed in a Birdhouse and it was wonderful. Cosy, with an amazing view. The food was great and plentiful. The staff were amazing especially the manager Craig who was very helpful and great to chat to. We did the Cotopaxi base camp hike, the waterfall hike and horse riding. All were really great. Honestly couldn’t recommend this place enough. Everyone eats together, family style which makes it a fantastic place to make friends from all over the world!

I really like this hostel and would keep going back. I was there independently acclimatizing for climbing different volcanoes in Ecuador, which is a little unusual as most people have a group or program. But Secret Garden Cotopaxi makes it very easy. They even find other participants for the trips so the cost goes down. The people leading the trips were great, particularly for Sincholagua. There are many hikes/climbs to choose from, and all of them are really enjoyable. This is one of the most affordable ways to acclimatize for big mountains in Ecuador, the staff are nice and super helpful, and the food is really good. They have their logistics dialed, so transportation is also easy to get. I would definitely stay here again.

My stay in the secret garden in Cotopaxi was absolutely stunning. I would highly recommend everyone to come here and spend some days here. Beautiful nature, absolutely awesome staff and great food and you can disconnect for a while and meet really cool people. Especially Nick and Sarah from the staff were absolutely legends and made my stay better

Everything is clean and comfortable. Amazing views. It’s a bit far out, but the staff are very flexible with providing transportation for an reasonable price. Family style dinner. The best part of the experience for me was the Cotopaxi tour with Mónica. Such a lovely person that took great care of us every step of the way. Food, hot showers, a variety of excursions, and beautiful views make for an all inclusive experience.

I stayed 3 nights at Secret Garden Cotopaxi. It is an amazing place, located in the middle of breathtaking nature with views of Cotopaxi and other mountains. The garden is full of beautiful flowers and the lamas are very cute. Everything is organized perfectly including transportation and various trips. The food is delicious and there are a lot of cozy hangout areas. Definitely a stay to remember.

Staying at the SG Cotopaxi was a pleasure, but it’s a bit different than a typical hostel stay. It kind of felt like a summer camp I used to go to in junior high- bunkmates, an assortment of hikes and outdoor activities during the day, family style meals, card games around the fire. If you’re looking for adventure and don’t mind the rustic accommodations (it’s comfortable but it’s not the Ritz) the secret garden will give you what you’re looking for and also give you the opportunity to connect with good people from around the world. There is a nice vibe about this place and the people here, guests and staff alike. Some of the guides for the Cotopaxi summit and other hikes speak only basic English, but they know the routes well and will get you to the top safely given there is good weather and sufficient physical and mental ability on your end. Pro Tip: make sure to take advantage of the unlimited bananas and banana bread.

One of the best hostels I have ever stayed at and a absolutely perfect home base for exploring the region. I made tons of friends easily, the family meals had perfect vibes and great food. I was able to do some amazing hikes and summit Cotopaxi organized through this hostel. The grounds are beautiful, and the staff and volunteers are passionate and welcoming. Without a doubt would highly recommend a stay here