Cotopaxi Hike & Horse

Exploring the Andes has never been more exhilarating. The Cotopaxi Hike & Horse experience blends heart-pumping adventures with stunning natural beauty. Travelers embark on a scenic horseback ride through the Tarqui Valley, immersed in diverse ecosystems, before tackling a challenging hike to the José Rivas refuge. From here, the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and native wildlife come into view, creating an unforgettable outdoor adventure. For those seeking to push their limits and connect with Ecuador’s captivating landscapes, this all-encompassing experience is not to be missed.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Quito.

Good To Know

• The tour includes a hike to the José Rivas refuge at 4,800 meters (15,744 feet) in Cotopaxi National Park, offering breathtaking views of the iconic volcano.
• A 2-hour horseback ride through the Tarqui Valley allows exploration of the local flora and fauna in the Andes mountain range.
• The cooking class at an organic farm teaches participants to prepare authentic Ecuadorian dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
• The tour combines outdoor adventure with culture, providing a well-rounded experience of Ecuador’s natural landscapes and culinary traditions.
• Private transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off in Quito are included for convenience, and mandatory travel insurance is provided for participant safety.

Overview

The tour combines horseback riding and an organic farm cooking class, providing a well-rounded experience for travelers short on time in Ecuador.

It includes private transportation and hotel pickup/drop-off, making it a convenient option. Participants will explore Tarqui Valley on horseback, learning about the local flora and fauna.

They’ll then visit an organic farm to pick ingredients and learn to cook authentic Ecuadorian dishes.

While the main activities are horseback riding and cooking, the tour also offers the opportunity to hike to a refuge in Cotopaxi National Park at an elevation of 4,800 meters (15,744 feet).

Activities

Horseback riding through the scenic Tarqui Valley allows participants to learn about the local plants and wildlife.

The tour also includes:

• Visiting an organic farm to pick ingredients and learn to cook authentic Ecuadorian dishes.
• Hiking to the refuge Jose Rivas at an elevation of 4,800 m (15,744 ft) in Cotopaxi National Park.
• Enjoying a 2-hour horseback ride in the breathtaking Andes mountain range.

These activities offer a well-rounded experience, blending outdoor adventure with culture, making the most of the limited time available.

Logistics

Meeting point for the tour is Quito, Ecuador, with hotel pickup available for an additional fee in certain areas.

The activity ends back at the meeting point. The start time is 07:00 am.

The tour includes private transportation throughout the day and hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito.

Mandatory travel insurance is also provided.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the minimum age is 5 years.

It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

The price starts at $220.00 and varies by group size.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour is rated 5.0 based on 8 reviews, with 7 five-star and 1 four-star.

Inclusions

This tour includes horseback riding and a cooking class. The package provides:

• Horseback riding and cooking class
• Private transportation throughout the day
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito
• Mandatory travel insurance

These inclusions ensure a seamless and worry-free experience for visitors.

The horseback riding component allows guests to explore the beautiful Tarqui Valley, while the cooking class at an organic farm teaches them to prepare authentic Ecuadorian dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

With private transportation and hotel transfers, travelers can focus on seeing the activities without the hassle of logistics.

Additional Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this experience.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the minimum age requirement is 5 years old. It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required.

The price starts at $220.00 per person and varies based on group size. Customers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

This Cotopaxi Hike & Horse tour has an impressive rating of 5.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, with 7 five-star and 1 four-star feedback.

Tarqui Valley Horseback Ride

Riders embark on a scenic horseback journey through the picturesque Tarqui Valley, where they’ll learn about the local flora and fauna.

This exhilarating experience allows guests to:

• Explore the diverse ecosystem, spotting native birds and plants along the way.
• Appreciate the breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes mountains.
• Gain insights into the region’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage.

The knowledgeable guides ensure a safe and informative adventure, catering to riders of all skill levels.

This immersive horseback experience is a must for anyone seeking to connect with Ecuador’s stunning natural landscapes.

Organic Farm Cooking Class

After the horseback riding adventure, guests venture to an organic farm to learn the art of authentic Ecuadorian cuisine.

At the farm, they’ll pick fresh ingredients and learn to prepare traditional dishes under the guidance of a local chef.

The cooking class offers a hands-on experience, allowing participants to enjoy the flavors and techniques of Ecuadorian gastronomy.

From chopping vegetables to seasoning meats, each step is carefully explained, providing guests with the knowledge to recreate these dishes back home.

This farm-to-table experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with the local culture through the universal language of food.

Cotopaxi National Park Hike

Hiking to the refuge José Rivas at 4,800 m (15,744 ft) in Cotopaxi National Park offers an exhilarating challenge for adventurous travelers.

This high-altitude trek promises:

• Breathtaking views of the iconic snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano
• Opportunities to spot native wildlife like Andean condors and wild horses
• A true sense of accomplishment upon reaching the remote mountain refuge

Participants can expect a strenuous but rewarding hike, navigating rugged terrain and adjusting to the thin air.

This activity isn’t for the faint of heart, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness.

But for those up for the challenge, the Cotopaxi hike delivers an unforgettable Andean adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ecuador?

The best time to visit Ecuador is typically between June and September, when the weather is drier and more stable. This is the peak tourist season, offering ideal conditions for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.

Can I Book This Tour in My Native Language?

The tour can be booked in the traveler’s native language. The provider offers multilingual support and arranges private transportation and hotel pickups to accommodate international guests and ensure a seamless experience.

Do I Need a Special Permit to Hike in Cotopaxi National Park?

Yes, hikers typically need a special permit to access Cotopaxi National Park. The tour provider can likely assist with obtaining the necessary permit for the hike portion of the experience. Check with them for specifics on the permit requirements.

What Type of Horses Are Used for the Horseback Riding?

The tour uses sturdy, well-trained horses that are suitable for riders of all experience levels. They’re acclimated to the Andean terrain and ensure a safe, enjoyable horseback riding experience through the valley.

Can I Customize the Cooking Class Menu?

Yes, you can customize the cooking class menu. The provider offers flexibility to tailor the menu based on your preferences and dietary requirements, ensuring a personalized culinary experience during your organic farm visit.

The Sum Up

The Cotopaxi Hike & Horse experience offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and natural beauty in Ecuador’s stunning Andes. From the scenic horseback ride through the Tarqui Valley to the challenging hike to the José Rivas refuge, this excursion provides breathtaking views of the iconic Cotopaxi volcano and opportunities to spot native wildlife, making it an unforgettable outdoor adventure.