Andean Adventure : Riding and Cotopaxi Refuge

Quito , Ecuador

Andean Adventure : Riding and Cotopaxi Refuge

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Adventure of Height: Cotopaxi National Park

We start early from Quito, with pick-up and return from your accommodation. We will take the impressive Avenue of Volcanoes, enjoying views of the Andes and its snow-capped peaks towards Cotopaxi National Park, where we will live an unforgettable experience in contact with nature.

For groups of up to 4 people, the guide can also be a driver. From 5 people, the tour includes guide and driver in larger vehicle.

Sacha Pedregal Tours, with more than 15 years of experience, promotes responsible tourism. We work with local communities, respect nature and take care of the welfare of all animals involved.

Experience an authentic and conscious adventure in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes!

Available options

Andean Adventure : Riding and Cotopaxi Refuge

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Traditional Chagra dress (sapphire and poncho)

Equestrian Safety Equipment (Helmet)

Detailed itinerary

7:30am Pick Up customers from different requested locations in Quito City.
We will travel from the city of quito south for 1 hour until we reach the town of Tambillo where we will make our first technical stop and we can buy hot drinks or snacks for our journey.

Continuing our journey we will cross the city of Machachi known as the land of the best chagras to meet a picturesque landscape and fertile haciendas dedicated to agricultural production, livestock and tourism that will lead us for 1 hour to the northern entrance of the Cotopaxi National Park.

Stop 3

Once entered to the protected area it will take us 10 min to reach Rumicorral place located at 3800 meters and where our horses wait to enjoy a walk for 1 hour.

Stop 4

After enjoying the horseback ride we continue our adventure towards the Cotopaxi volcano to the Parqueadero at an altitude of 4600msnm to where the vehicle advances, from this point we begin the hike to the José Rivas refuge at an altitude of 4860msnm, in this place we can rest and enjoy a hot chocolate.

Stop 5

To finish our journey we will descend to an altitude of 3800 m where we find the Laguna de Limpiopungo, here we can observe several species of birds and flora endemic to the Protected Area as we walk along the trails surrounding the Laguna, the departure will be by the South control of the Cotopaxi National Park.

Return to the city of Quito will be around 4.30pm

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.