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$55 per person | From Quito

Cotopaxi Horseback

Andean Horseback Ride

From Quito

Easy

95 USD p.p.

4,000m / 13,123ft

departures every week:
  • Wednesday
  • Friday
  • Saturday
  • Sunday

We guarantee departures, even with one person.

Our itinerary

Cotopaxi Horseback Day Tour

“Generations have looked to Cotopaxi from horseback. Today, you’re one of them.”

Start and Pick Up

Today we will be visiting the Cotopaxi Volcano on horseback.

There are two pick up points for the Cotopaxi Horseback day tour:

  1. 07:15 AM – Plaza Foch in front of Juan Valdez Café.
  2. 07:30 AM – Plaza San Blas from Café Zular.

Please look for a white tour bus. The guide will be there with a list of names to check you in.

We recommend taking a taxi to and from one of these pick-up/drop-off points.

Drive and Andean Landscapes

We will drive south through Ecuador, along the so-called Avenue of Volcanoes. We will pass the town of Machachi and enter Cotopaxi National Park, where we will stop at a viewpoint for photos.

Exploration of Cotopaxi

Upon reaching Cotopaxi National Park, you’ll ascend to an altitude of 3,200 meters (10,498 feet). Our guide will offer an informative explanation about the impressive Cotopaxi volcano and the unique animals and plants that live in the park.

Horseback Riding in the Paramo

At 3,900 meters (12,795 feet), you’ll meet your local horseback riding handler and get ready for a 3-hour ride through the high Andes. The trail takes you above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), offering stunning views of the páramo and peaceful mountain landscapes.

Please note: After the ride, there may be a short wait before you rejoin the group for the Cotopaxi day tour.

Limpiopungo Lake Viewpoint

We stop at Limpiopungo Lake to take photos and enjoy the quiet nature. The lake is at 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) and offers great views of Cotopaxi Volcano. You might see wild horses and birds that live in the highlands.

Ecuadorian Lunch

We stop for lunch (included) at a local restaurant. You can enjoy Ecuadorian food and have time some to rest.

If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, please let us know in advance. We will be happy to accommodate you.

Return and Drop off

After lunch, we will begin our return journey to Quito.

If you’re heading south to Latacunga, Baños, or Quilotoa, we can drop you off along the way for public transport, or help arrange a private transfer (additional cost).

For those returning to Quito, we will arrive between 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. Drop-off will be at the same locations as the pick-up points.

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95 USD per person for our shared tour.

Guaranteed departures every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Important:

Please be advised that the itinerary is subject to change without prior notice due to external factors and at the discretion of the guide.

Activity times are approximate and may be adjusted if necessary.

3-hours of horseback riding.

English & Spanish-speaking guide during all other activities, except horseback riding.

Spanish-speaking horseback handler (responsible for managing the horses and leading the route).

Safety gear during horseback riding.

Authorized tourist transport.

Menu-type meals (Lunch).

Permits to enter the protected areas.

Extra food and drinks.

Tips.

Snacks.

Taxes Ecuadorian tourist and companies.

Get ready for your day tour with this packing list:

Stay warm with gloves, scarf, and hat.

Shield your eyes with sunglasses.

Stay hydrated with water.

Wear sturdy shoes or boots.

Capture memories with your camera.

Stay dry with a waterproof jacket.

Keep your feet cozy with warm socks.

Protect your skin with sunscreen.

Pack snacks for energy.

95 USD per person for our shared tour.

Guaranteed departures every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Important:

Please be advised that the itinerary is subject to change without prior notice due to external factors and at the discretion of the guide.

Activity times are approximate and may be adjusted if necessary.

Get ready for your day tour with this packing list:

Stay warm with gloves, scarf, and hat.

Shield your eyes with sunglasses.

Stay hydrated with water.

Wear sturdy shoes or boots.

Capture memories with your camera.

Stay dry with a waterproof jacket.

Keep your feet cozy with warm socks.

Protect your skin with sunscreen.

Pack snacks for energy.

3-hours of horseback riding.

English & Spanish-speaking guide during all other activities, except horseback riding.

Spanish-speaking horseback handler (responsible for managing the horses and leading the route).

Safety gear during horseback riding.

Authorized tourist transport.

Menu-type meals (Lunch).

Permits to enter the protected areas.

Extra food and drinks.

Tips.

Snacks.

Taxes Ecuadorian tourist and companies.

Frequently Asked questions

Cotopaxi Horseback

Q: What time do the day tours to Cotopaxi volcano start?
Our day tours to Cotopaxi start early in the morning, with pick-up times from designated locations in Quito. Our first pick-up location is at 07:15 AM at Plaza Foch. Our second pick-up location is at 07:30 at San Blas.
Q: Are meals included in the Cotopaxi day tour?

Lunch is included in our Cotopaxi day tour. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, providing an opportunity to sample authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and refuel after your adventures.

Q: Do I need to have prior horseback riding experience?

No prior horseback riding experience is necessary. Our handler will provide you with the necessary support to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

Q: Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children. However, please consider the high altitude and ensure that your children are comfortable with the physical activity involved.
Q: What should I bring for the Cotopaxi horseback day tour?
Dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Wear comfortable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Bring a water bottle, a camera for capturing memories, and any personal items you might need.
Q: What if I book the 2-day program with Quilotoa?
Then instead of being transferred back to Quito, you will be staying in accommodation in the area. It’s a convenient option to save time and to get to know more of the area.