Ride beneath one of the world’s highest active volcanoes on a full-day trip from Quito. Two hours on horseback through páramo and a one-hour walk around Limpiopungo Lagoon offer geology, wildlife, and high-altitude terrain in one accessible outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low wind lifts dust off the trail as riders fall into rhythm beneath the looming cone of Cotopaxi. The volcano dominates the horizon—snow and a remnant glacier capping a 19,347-foot peak—while the páramo spreads out in golden tussocks and lupines. Riders move along bridle paths for two hours, the horses steady on gravel and soft boggy patches, before a short drive deposits the group at Limpiopungo Lagoon for a one-hour walk at roughly 12,500 feet.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable mounting and riding a horse for two hours at high altitude.
Wildlife
History
Cotopaxi has been a focal point of Andean culture for centuries and is one of the highest active volcanoes globally (approx. 5,897 m / 19,347 ft); its eruptions shaped surrounding soils and settlement patterns.
Conservation
The páramo is a fragile water-holding ecosystem—stay on trails, avoid trampling bogs, pack out waste, and support park fees which fund conservation and monitoring.
Reserve your spot on the Cotopaxi National Park with Horseback Riding today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before you go
Spend a day or two in Quito (9,350 ft) to reduce altitude effects; move slowly on the first day in the park and hydrate frequently.
Layer for extremes
Temperatures can swing from sun-warm to sub-freezing; pack a wind shell and an insulating midlayer for the horseback and lagoon sections.
Protect from intense sun
At 12,500+ feet UV is strong—use SPF 50+, sunglasses, and a brimmed hat to avoid burns and glare.
Footwear matters
Sturdy, treaded hiking boots or riding-appropriate boots help on uneven volcanic gravel and wet boggy shorelines.
Sturdy hiking or riding boots
Support and grip for volcanic gravel, wet trails, and mounting/dismounting horses.
Insulating midlayer (fleece/down)
Cold wind and rapid temperature drops make an insulating layer essential at high elevations.
winter
Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat)
High-altitude UV exposure is intense even on cloudy days; protect skin and eyes.
summer
1.5–2 L water bottle or hydration pack
Higher exertion at altitude increases dehydration risk—carry enough water for the day.