
Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour worth booking?
Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour is a 8-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $200 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (16)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $200 per person
This exclusive experience will introduce you to the Andes Mountain Range landscape and wildlife. Your profesional tour guide will pick you up at your hotel or airbnb to start the tour and go to Cotopaxi. The 90 minutes drive from Quito to Cotopaxi is full of beautifull mountains and cosy small villages. Arriving to Cotopaxi the local guide will be waiting with helmets, ponchos and horses. Then you will ride a horse for 2 hours around the grassland and the beautifull volcano. Then you will go to the Limpiopungo lagoon to hike around it. The lagoon is located in a flat highland where you will hike for 1 hour around it. That is an amazing place to see the local plants, flowers and birds. At the end you will come back to Quito or stop in a local restaurant to have a lunch. Dropoff at your hotel
What you get
About this experience
This exclusive experience will introduce you to the Andes Mountain Range landscape and wildlife. Your profesional tour guide will pick you up at your hotel or airbnb to start the tour and go to Cotopaxi. The 90 minutes drive from Quito to Cotopaxi is full of beautifull mountains and cosy small villages. Arriving to Cotopaxi the local guide will be waiting with helmets, ponchos and horses. Then you will ride a horse for 2 hours around the grassland and the beautifull volcano. Then you will go to the Limpiopungo lagoon to hike around it. The lagoon is located in a flat highland where you will hike for 1 hour around it. That is an amazing place to see the local plants, flowers and birds. At the end you will come back to Quito or stop in a local restaurant to have a lunch. Dropoff at your hotel
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Profesional Tour guide
- 2 hours horseback ride
- Cotopaxi National Park entrance fee
Not included
- Tips
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Pickup and dropoff from the Quito airport.
What you'll see and do
Cotopaxi Volcano
Ride a horse in the second higuest volcano in Ecuador. The 2-3 hours ride will allow you to visit some of the most beautifull grasslands and hills where natural springs down from the volcano go the Andean valley. The landscape is breathtaking.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Cotopaxi National Park
The beautifull National Park is the house of many wild animals like horses, deers and birds. During the time you will admire the high mountains and also watch the amazing wildlife.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Laguna de Limpiopungo
The Limpiopungo pound hike take 1 hour and allow us to watch a birds sanctuary and many native plants and flowers from the grassland.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Quito
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Llamingo Travel
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
My wife and I enjoyed an...
My wife and I enjoyed an excellent tour to Cotopaxi from Quito with our tour guide, Christian. Throughout the day, Christian provided us with an extensive knowledge of the area, Ecuador and his personal experiences. Our horseback ride through the valley surrounding the volcano was very enjoyable and were able to trot the horses from time to time through the amazing landscape. Although the volcano was not fully visible during the trip, we thoroughly enjoyed the day, and Christian even provided us with some great photos he had previously taken which was a nice, personalized touch. Although lunch is not included on this tour, we headed with Christian to an excellent lunch spot, Mirador de los volcanes, with views of the volcano and valley after our trip and before heading back to Quito.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for such a wonderful and detailed review! We’re delighted to hear that you and your wife had such an enjoyable day exploring Cotopaxi with Christian. It’s fantastic to know that you enjoyed the horseback ride through the beautiful landscape and had the opportunity to trot the horses along the way. We’re also glad that Christian’s knowledge and personal experiences added something special to the day. While mountain weather can sometimes limit the views of Cotopaxi, we’re happy that the experience was still memorable and that his photos gave you another perspective of the volcano. We’re especially pleased that you enjoyed the lunch stop at Mirador de los Volcanes and the beautiful views before returning to Quito. Thank you for choosing us and for sharing your experience. We hope to welcome you back to Ecuador for another adventure!
via Viator
A beautiful day out with nature
This is a beautiful experience that connects with nature and the beauty of Copaxi. The horses were so gentle and our guide, Daniel spoke excellent English and was very knowledgeable.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed such a beautiful experience connecting with nature. Exploring the landscapes around Cotopaxi on horseback is truly a special way to appreciate the Andes. We’re also glad to know the horses were gentle and that Daniel helped make the day even better with his knowledge and excellent English. He’ll be very happy to hear your kind words. Thank you again for sharing your experience, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure from Quito!
via Viator
Riders are outfitted with...
Riders are outfitted with ponchos and chaps, which are items I had never used before but was very glad to have. They kept me warm and dry through the changeable weather. The two hour ride covered a variety of terrains with 360 degree views of gorgeous countryside throughout. The leaders are were relaxed but effective, providing a stress-free experience. This was easily the best "rental ride" I have ever done and enthusiastically recommend it! We had a professional guide that day, but he did not join us on the ride. (The nearby restaurant has very inflated prices and other options are available with a brief drive.)
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear you had such a great horseback riding experience. The ponchos and chaps can definitely make a big difference with the changing mountain weather, so we’re glad they helped keep you comfortable during the ride. It’s fantastic that you enjoyed the two-hour ride and the incredible 360-degree views of the Andean countryside near Cotopaxi. Riding through that landscape is truly a unique way to experience the beauty of the region. We also appreciate your comments about the team and the relaxed, stress-free atmosphere they create. Thank you for your enthusiastic recommendation, and we hope to welcome you again for another adventure from Quito!
via Viator
Christian was an...
Christian was an fanatastic guide — super knowledgeable and really friendly. I took my wife on the horseback riding tour and it was an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was smooth, fun, and unforgettable. Highly recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you and your wife had such an amazing horseback riding experience with Christian. His knowledge and friendly personality truly help make every tour special. Riding through the beautiful Andean landscapes near Cotopaxi is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we’re glad everything was smooth, fun, and unforgettable for you both. Thank you for your recommendation—we hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Quito and the surrounding Andes!
via Viator
Great way to enjoy the Cotopaxi
Our guide, Christian, was knowledgeable and fun. Horseback riding was a great way to see Cotopaxi since the high elevation makes hiking difficult. The horses were sure-footed and Patrik outfitted us with ponchos and chaps to keep us warm. Be sure to bring a hat and gloves. We bought them from a vendor next to the horses and we really needed them. We saw lots of birds on the lagoon walk.
Response from the operator: Thanks for sharing your experience! We’re glad you enjoyed exploring nature with us — our guide loves showing those hidden trails and viewpoints. Hope to see you again on another adventure soon!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $200 to $340
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Llamingo Travel, who run 8 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 72.3.
See everything Llamingo Travel runsWhy this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.
How much does Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour cost?
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Prices start at $200 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.
Is Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 16 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
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On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Quito?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Quito?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour?
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Included: Private transportation; Profesional Tour guide; 2 hours horseback ride; and Cotopaxi National Park entrance fee. Not included: Tips; Breakfast; Lunch; and Pickup and dropoff from the Quito airport. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 114 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Cotopaxi volcano horseback ride and hike Private tour?
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Across 16 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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