Cotopaxi Horseback & Hike
From hotel in Quito
From 150 USD p.p.
departures every day:
- Private tour
Our itinerary
Hike & Horseback
“They came on horseback and climbed into the clouds. Now, it’s your turn.”
We’ll head south from Quito, driving along the famous Avenue of Volcanoes. As we approach Cotopaxi, we’ll make a short stop near the park entrance where you can grab breakfast or buy any last-minute snacks or supplies.
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.
If the weather is clear, we’ll stop for photos at scenic viewpoints around 3,600 meters (11,811 feet).
Next, we drive up the mountain to the Cotopaxi parking area at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet). From here, we hike to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet), with the option to continue to the edge of the glacier at 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), depending on weather and fitness.
We’ll stop here for about 30 minutes. You can warm up with a delicious hot chocolate (our favorite!) or grab a small snack. Enjoy the mountain views, and as a memorabilia, you can get a souvenir stamp in your passport.
After our hike, we drive back to 3,900 meters (12,795 feet), where 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.
On the way down, we stop at Limpiopungo Lake to take photos. 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.
From 150 USD per person for our private day tour.
Guaranteed departures every day.
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.
Although we recommend participants have moderate fitness for the hike’s physical demands, please note that our experienced guide will always be there to provide support.
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, snacks and drinks.
Tips.
Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens 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.
And for a Cotopaxi passport stamp:
Bring your original passport.
From 150 USD per person for our private day tour.
Guaranteed departures every day.
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.
Although we recommend participants have moderate fitness for the hike’s physical demands, please note that our experienced guide will always be there to provide support.
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.
And for a Cotopaxi passport stamp:
Bring your original passport.
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,snacks and drinks.
Tips.
Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies.
Frequently Asked questions
Cotopaxi Hike & Horseback
Q: How difficult is the hike to the refuge?
The hike is short but challenging due to the altitude. It takes about 45 minutes to hike from the parking lot (4,600 m / 15,092 ft) to the refuge (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Walking slowly, drinking water, and resting as needed are key.
Q: How long is the tour?
The full-day tour typically lasts around 10–11 hours, including travel time to and from Quito. Departure is usually around 7:30 AM and we return by late afternoon or early evening.
Q: Is previous horseback riding experience required?
No experience is necessary. The horses are calm and trained for beginners. Your guide and the local horse handler will give you basic instructions before the ride.
Q: Is lunch included?
Yes, a warm lunch at a local restaurant is included. Vegetarian options are available, just let us know in advance.
Q: Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
This tour is best for active travelers in good health. The horseback ride is suitable for most ages, but the hike requires moderate fitness and tolerance to high altitude.
Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
Cotopaxi’s weather is unpredictable. If it’s unsafe to hike, we may adjust the itinerary slightly. The horseback ride usually goes ahead unless conditions are extreme.
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