Part of 2014 CNN´s 15 world’s greatest horse treks!

This 5 day trekking shows you the best of the Andes. The number of species found here are incredible, you can find there the Andean deer, spectacled bears, Andean fox and pumas, as well as a variety of birds like the guarro (Andean eagle), curiquingeu (cara-cara), the kilico (falcon), chugshi (owl), bandurrias (black ibis), urco paloma (sea gull), ducks, and the majestic condor. In warmer ravines, you’ll also see colourful hummingbirds sipping nectar from flowers. Uniquely, the only form of transportation during your trip will be your horse. They will be your partner throughout this adventure. And, of course, you will have the opportunity to admire the majestic Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano on earth.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Embark on an unforgettable horseback journey to the slopes of the extinct Rumiñahui Volcano with our exclusive tour from Quito. After a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Hacienda El Porvenir, you’ll be greeted with a welcoming drink and meet your local guide, or chagra. Ride through majestic Andean landscapes, spotting wildlife and herds of wild bulls, and enjoy breathtaking views of up to twelve volcanoes on clear days. After lunch back at the hacienda, learn about traditional horse handling and gear from the chagra. Your adventure includes an overnight stay at the charming Hacienda El Porvenir, nestled high in the Andes.

Riding hours: 4 hours

Day 2: Set off on a spectacular horseback adventure from Hacienda El Porvenir to Hacienda El Tambo, traversing 43 km of diverse landscapes under the shadow of the mighty Cotopaxi Volcano. This full-day journey, spanning 6 to 7 hours, will take you past mountain rivers, and small lakes, and to the ancient Inca fortress, Pucará del Salitre. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst stunning scenery and end your day at the welcoming Hacienda El Tambo, where a traditional dinner by a warm fire awaits you. This immersive experience offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical exploration, all from the back of a horse.

Day 3: Embark on a morning horseback ride across the foothills of the dormant Quilindaña Volcano, standing at a majestic 4,878 meters. Traverse the volcano’s slopes and plains, entering pristine woods home to unique native trees like the pantza or polylepis. Disembark to explore a magical forest adorned with moss, lichen, and high-altitude bromeliads. A packed lunch complements your journey through this serene landscape. After absorbing local legends and the tranquil wilderness, return to the comfort of Hacienda El Tambo for a well-deserved, delicious dinner. This adventure is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights.

Day 4: Dive into the day with a hearty breakfast before beginning your chagra skills training at the hacienda. You’ll learn the art of lasso handling, cattle management, and essential knot tying, preparing you for a “rodeo”—a local term for a cattle drive that stems from “rodear,” meaning to surround. After honing your new skills, enjoy a traditional lunch before embarking on an afternoon of trout fishing. The chagras will guide you through their techniques for catching and preparing trout, a staple in their diet. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner and a restful night at Hacienda El Tambo..

 Day 5: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Hacienda before embarking on an early morning horse pack expedition back to civilization. You’ll follow the River Tambo towards the base of Cotopaxi, traversing the high routes used by locals along the slopes of Sincholagua Volcano. A packed lunch will accompany you on this journey. The return to Hacienda El Porvenir takes you through Cotopaxi National Park along a spectacular, panoramic path, offering breathtaking views. Upon arrival at Hacienda El Porvenir, you’ll transfer to your vehicle for the return drive to Quito.

INCLUDED
Professional and bilingual guide
Transportation from and to Quito (hotel)
Guided horse tour on healthy strong horses for all levels
Four nights of accommodation
4 x breakfasts, 4x lunches, 4x dinners (All meals feature delicious, gourmet international and Ecuadorian food, wine and beer included.)
Use of boots, helmets, hats, chaps and other equipment
Support vehicle on part of the ride
Lunch boxes on most of the rides
Your choice of wool protected saddles. You may also bring your own equipment.
Local taxes

NOT INCLUDED
Tips for guide
Extra food and drinks

Necessary equipment:

• Longsleeves and long pants (preferably riding pants)
• Sun block
• Waterproof jacket
• Riding boots or other solid shoes with good
• Sunglasses
• Riding helmet if available
• Mosquito repellent
• Small bottle of water

PRICE
For the up to date pricing of this tour, please contact us at ecuahorserides@gmail.com

*Suitable for families with children 12 years and older with good riding skills and capacity for long journeys. 15% discount for children up to 15.
* Since we will ride in the mountains where the trails could be steep and where there is less oxygen lead us to put a maximum on rider weights of 200 pounds.
* Important things to bring: waterproof clothing, comfortable shoes (no flipflops or other type of open shoes), water, sun block, mosquito repellent, sunglasses and your passport.
* It is important that you will have current travel insurance including personal medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
* The operator reserves the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather, National Park regulations or notifications and unpredictable circumstances.

Please send us a message for more information and availability: