Cotopaxi Horseback & Refuge

From $150 per person

A full-day private tour from Quito to Cotopaxi:

- Private hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Caminata hasta el Refugio José Rivas (4,800 m)
- Glacier hike option (5,000 m)
- Cabalgata guiada de 3 horas
- Limpiopungo Lake
- Almuerzo incluido

Start any day

Contáctanos

Forbes

Itinerario

“They came on horseback and climbed into the clouds. Now, it’s your turn.”

Start any day, based on availability
This is a private tour.

Esenciales para el Tour

Idiomas del tour: Inglés y Español.

Temperatura promedio: 6–16°C (43–61°F)
Prepárese para un clima con sol, nubes, viento y en ocasiones, lluvias ligeras o incluso nieve. El clima en la montaña puede cambiar rápidamente.

Hotel Pick Up in Quito

Your private adventure begins with a convenient pick-up directly from your hotel in Quito. We recommend starting at 07:30 AM to enjoy the best morning views and weather, but as this is a private service, we can adjust the time for you.

Avenue of Volcanoes & Park Entrance

We drive south along the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes.

Before entering the park, we can make a short stop for you to buy breakfast, water, or extra snacks. Your private guide will share insights about the local culture and the volcanic landscape along the way.

Caminata en Cotopaxi: Refugio y Glaciar

We drive up to the mountain parking area at 4,600 meters (15,092 ft). From here, we begin a steady hike of about 1 hour up to the Refugio José Rivas (4,800m). Take a 30-minute break to buy a hot chocolate and get a novelty stamp in your passport.

If you feel strong and the weather allows, your guide can lead you further up to the Base del Glaciar (5,000m).

Horseback Ride

After the hike, we descend to 3,900 meters to meet your local horse handler. You will explore the high Andean plains on a recorrido a caballo de 3 horas. This trail takes you through the beautiful paramo landscapes and reaches altitudes over 4,000 meters. It is a peaceful, exclusive way to experience the park away from the crowds.

Mirador de la Laguna de Limpiopungo

We visit Limpiopungo Lake (3,800m) for a relaxing walk and photo opportunities. This is the best spot to see the volcano reflected in the water and to spot local wildlife, including Andean birds and wild horses.

Almuerzo ecuatoriano

Nos detenemos por un almuerzo ecuatoriano (incluido) con entrada, plato fuerte y una bebida. Por favor, indíquenos en su reserva si tiene alguna restricción alimentaria.

Regreso a Quito

After lunch, we drive you back to your hotel in Quito, typically arriving around 6:30 PM.

Hacia otro lugar: Si se dirige a otro destino, indíquelo a nuestro guía. Podemos dejarle en un punto de transporte público o coordinar un traslado privado.

Note
Our itinerary may change based on the weather or other factors. Your guide will always make the best decision for the group. All times are approximate and may be adjusted during the day.

Precio

Horseback & Refuge

From $150 p.p.

Private tour: start any day, based on availability

Contáctanos

ZIncluido

- Cabalgata de 3 horas
- Guía en inglés y español durante todas las actividades, excepto la cabalgata
- Encargado de la cabalgata de habla hispana (con conocimientos básicos de inglés, responsable del manejo de los caballos y guiar la ruta)
- Equipo necesario para la cabalgata
- Poncho y zamarros durante la cabalgata
- Transporte turístico autorizado
- Almuerzo (menú del día)
- Permiso para ingresar al Parque Nacional Cotopaxi

Excluido

- Comida extra, snacks y bebidas
- Propinas
- Impuestos: Solo se aplica a ciudadanos y empresas ecuatorianas.

Qué llevar

Para este tour, se recomienda ropa y zapatos cómodos y estar preparado para las condiciones climáticas. Debido a que estaremos en los Andes, recomendamos llevar:

- Guantes, bufanda y un gorro
- Chaqueta impermeable
- Protector solar y gafas de sol
- Zapatos deportivos cómodos o para senderismo y medias abrigadas.
- Agua y snacks para tener energía

Esta lista es una recomendación para mayor comodidad, no es obligatoria.

Good to Know

- La cabalgata es guiada por un encargado de habla hispana con conocimientos muy básicos de inglés.
- Este tour siempre está en inglés y español
- Tendrá el apoyo de nuestro guía en todo momento
- Recomendamos vestirse en capas para estar preparado ante los cambios de clima
- El guía podrá ajustar el itinerario y los horarios en caso de ser necesario

¿Dudas? Chatee en vivo con nosotros

Preguntas Frecuentes

Cotopaxi y Quilotoa

Q: How much hiking is involved?

At Cotopaxi, walking is minimal unless you request a hike. At Quilotoa, there is a short walk to the viewpoint. If you want to hike a bit more, let your guide know—he will be able to estimate if there is enough time.

Q: Is this a private tour?

Yes, this tour is fully private. You’ll have a dedicated guide and vehicle for a more personalized experience, with flexible timing and stops.

Q: What is the altitude like?

At Cotopaxi National Park, we reach up to 3,600 meters (11,800 ft), while Quilotoa sits at around 3,900 meters (12,800 ft). You may feel the effects of high altitude, so walk slowly, stay hydrated, and rest if needed.

Q: Do I need to be very fit?

No, this itinerary is suitable for most travelers since hiking is completely optional. This way, clients who have trouble walking, or simply prefer not to, can still enjoy the best of Cotopaxi and Quilotoa comfortably.

Q: Will I see both Cotopaxi and Quilotoa clearly?

Weather in the Andes is unpredictable. We aim to visit both in the best possible conditions, but views can be affected by clouds. Your guide may adjust the itinerary to maximize visibility.

Q: Are restroom stops available?

Yes, we make regular stops, including at viewpoints, restaurants, and visitor centers where restrooms are available. Simply ask your guide and he will show you to the nearest option.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?

Yes, the tour is suitable for families and travelers of most ages. Let us know if you want to skip the hikes or adjust the pace—we’ll tailor the day to your needs.