Cotopaxi Horseback & Refuge
From $150 per person
A full-day private tour from Quito to Cotopaxi:
- - Private hotel pick-up and drop-off
- - Hike to José Rivas Refuge (4,800 m)
- - Glacier hike option (5,000 m)
- - 3-hour guided horseback ride
- - Limpiopungo Lake
- - Lunch included
- Start any day
Itinerary
“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.
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.
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 José Rivas Refuge (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 Glacier Base (5,000m).
After the hike, we descend to 3,900 meters to meet your local horse handler. You will explore the high Andean plains on a 3-hour horseback ride. 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.
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.
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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.
Pricing
Private tour: start any day, based on availability
- ZIncluded
- - 3-hours of horseback riding
- - English & Spanish-speaking guide during all other activities, except horseback riding
- - Spanish-speaking horseback handler (basic English skills, responsible for managing the horses and leading the route)
- - Horseback gear during horseback riding
- - Poncho and sheepskin chaps during horseback riding
- - Authorized tourist transport
- - Lunch (menu-type meal)
- - Permit to enter Cotopaxi National Park
- Excluded
- - Extra food, snacks and drinks
- - Tips
- - Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies
- What to Pack
For this tour wear comfortable clothing, shoes and be ready for weather conditions. Since we’ll be in the Andes, we recommend bringing:
- - Gloves, scarf, and a hat
- - A waterproof jacket
- - Sunscreen and sunglasses
- - Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes and warm socks
- - Water and snacks for energy
This list is a recommendation for extra comfort, it’s not required.
- Good to Know
- - The horseback ride is with a Spanish-speaking handler, with very basic English skills.
- - This tour is always in English and Spanish
- - Our guide is always there to support you
- - Wear layers to stay ready for changing weather
- - The guide may adjust the itinerary and schedule if necessary
Questions? Chat Live with us
Frequently Asked questions
Cotopaxi Horseback & Refuge
Q: How difficult is the hike to the José Rivas Refuge?
The hike is short in distance but challenging due to the altitude and the sandy, volcanic incline. It typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes to reach the refuge. If you prefer not to hike uphill, we can drive to the Limpiopungo Lake for a flat, scenic walk instead.
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: Do I need prior experience for the horseback riding
No experience is necessary! Our horses are well-trained, calm, and accustomed to the terrain. Your local handler) will provide safety and help you mount.
Q: What is the maximum altitude we will reach?
The horseback ride takes place at approximately 3,800m (12,467 ft). If you choose to hike to the Refuge, you will reach 4,800m (15,748 ft). We highly recommend being in Quito for at least 48 hours before this tour to help your body adjust to the altitude.
Q: Do I need to be very fit?
A moderate fitness level is recommended for the hike to the refuge. The horseback ride is suitable for beginners and requires no prior experience.
Q: Will I see Cotopaxi clearly?
Cotopaxi is an active volcano with its own microclimate, and clouds can move in quickly. We start our tours early in the morning to give you the best possible chance of clear, unobstructed views. Even on cloudy days, the landscape of the National Park and the experience of the Andean “paramo” are beautiful.
Q: What should I wear for this specific tour?
Layers are essential. The weather at Cotopaxi changes rapidly. We recommend:
- Long pants (comfortable for riding).
- A windbreaker or waterproof jacket.
- Sturdy closed-toe shoes (hiking boots or sneakers are best).
- Sun protection (hat and SPF), as the sun is much stronger at 4,000+ meters.
Q: Are restroom stops available?
Yes. We make a “technical stop” in the town of Machachi before entering the park where you can use the restroom and buy snacks. There are also basic restroom facilities at the National Park entrance and inside the José Rivas Refuge at the top of the hike.
Cotopaxi Hike & Bike
From Quito
group tour
Hike and downhill bike Cotopaxi volcano for the ultimate adventure.
Departures
Wed - Fri - Sat - Sun
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Hike & bike
Physical level
per person
