We begin our journey driving south from Quito along the legendary Avenue of the Volcanoes. On clear days, the silhouettes of several snow-capped peaks accompany us along the way, setting the stage for an unforgettable Andean adventure.

Upon arrival at Cotopaxi National Park, we start the day with a scenic horseback ride through the highland páramo, experiencing the landscape as the traditional Andean cowboys, known as chagras. Riding along ancient trails that cross open grasslands and descend into the dramatic Pita River canyon, we discover crystal-clear springs and the remains of pre-Inca pucarás, silent witnesses of the region’s ancestral past. Along the way, we may spot Andean wildlife such as hares, foxes, deer, or even herds of wild horses, all under the constant presence of Cotopaxi’s massive, glaciated cone dominating the horizon.

After the ride, we enjoy a traditional lunch in the park with spectacular views of the volcano. In the afternoon, we continue with a short interpretive hike around Limpiopungo Lake, home to highland waterfowl such as gulls, ducks, and falcons, while learning about the fragile páramo ecosystem. At the end of the day, we drive to a cozy Andean hacienda, where we settle in, relax, and enjoy dinner surrounded by the highlands