Secrets of the Andes Ride Highlands Riding Tours Ecuador This trip will take you through the very heart of the Western Andes and their unbroken beauty. It compiles the highlights in and around Pululahua National Park, unfolding the mysteries of these dramatic mountains piece by piece and the stories they hold. Enjoy an incredible variety of Andean landscapes within a relatively small geographical area - jungles and deserts, hot valleys and cool windy heights, volcanoes and pristine streams, culture land and tropical wilderness - combined with fascinating in-looks into Ecuador's natural and social history. Camping Ride with vehicle support Progressive Ride (no camping) Meeting: Quito Airport: Quito Transfer: Quito Riders: Min 2 riders Max 8 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

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Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito. Transfers are available at any time on Day 1 of the trip. You'll be transferred to your B&B in Quito the night around 5:00pm before departure. The following morning you will be dropped off at the Quito Airport.

Day 1: Sunday, May 12th
Pick-up at 10:30am on May 12th at Casa Gangotena in Quito, introduction to the highlights of the city and optional cable car ride to the flanks of Pichincha volcano to an altitude over 4.000 meters or 13.000 feet. From up here, on a clear day, it is possible to overlook the majestic peaks of the so called Avenue of Volcanoes and to point out our riding area.
Accommodation in Bed and Breakfast in town.

Day 2: Monday, May 13th
Free time in the morning to acclimatize some more and explore your surroundings. Pick up at noon from your hotel, from where we will drive you towards the western cordillera in direction of Pululahua volcano and nature park.
Along the way, we'll have lunch and make a stop at the Equator museum Intiñan, 15-km north from Quito, with information on the ancient cultures that have determined the equator line more than thousand years ago. We’ll learn some interesting facts about geo-physics and the people which once ruled the center of the earth.
In the late afternoon, we will start this adventure with one of our very special dusk- and night rides through Pululahua crater, which will allow you to deeply capture the magical spirit of this unique geographical area. 
As our path slowly winds into darkness and dense mists, fire-flies start lightening the sky, like stardust falling down on us. With your senses sharpened by dark, this ride will be a totally different experience and shall build up deep trust between you and your horse.
We’ll deliver you straight from the saddle to the dinner table of your cozy country-hotel where you will sleep tonight.

Day 3: Tuesday, May 14th
Take a look at the surprising surrounding, while taking your breakfast amongst busy rushing hummingbirds in the cottage garden of your ecological lodge. 
Another ride through the stunning landscape of this ancient volcanic crater, this time at day-light, will show its constantly changing sceneries and huge biodiversity.
Pululahua is known to be the biggest crater on the whole American continent and one of only two inhabited craters in the world. While circling the central lava cone, we witness volcanic history and nature, interesting geological formations, mineral avalanches blooming with wild orchids and traditional Andean agriculture. Enjoy an outdoor jacuzzi under stars after dinner if your muscles should request it!
 
Day 4: Wednesday, May 15th
We’ll be leaving the volcano along cloud-forest covered mountain slopes, passing by deep gorges, carved by lava streams thousands of years ago to enter the narrow Valley of the Rio Blanco with its warm and tropical climate where we shall find coffee trees, fields of sugar cane and a lot of tropical fruits.
Legendary historical sites can be observed along the way. When the afternoon light breaks through the clouds over the pre-Inca-fortress Portalanza, with the eagle sailing above, this mountain-valley looks most certainly like taken from a fairy tale.
 "Aguacatal" is the name of the very remote (no electricity!) and beautiful farm that offers us beds for tonight in cozy wooden cabañas. Alternatively, we shall stay at the ancient Jesuit Hacienda Niebli de la Compañia, depending on availability. Ice-cold Caipirinha, and delicious evening meal besides the log fire will reward for the adventurous riding day.

Day 5: Thursday, May 16th
In the morning, we'll enjoy the pleasant climate of this end-of-the world place, as much as the opulent breakfast that our host Soledad has prepared for us.
Today's ride leads us along and above the dramatically beautiful Guayllabamba river valley, combining steep adventurous climbs through dense vegetation with gallop stretches on mountain ridges with wide open views, overlooking the steep and winding gorges, a comprised version of the Grand Canyon. This valley has been settled long before the arrival of the Incas, by cultures who were farming the land, building temples for their gods and knowing the exact position of the equator line.
We shall encounter some of their testimonies on our ride, while overlooking grave hillocks, terrace hills and 1300 years old stone carvings.
Zigzagging dense forests and bush-land, sometimes requiring a machete and hopping on and off the saddle, climbing steep slopes, crossing pristine water streams, we wind through ancient paths, nearly forgotten nowadays, used only by the very few farmers still living out here, to make our way back into the volcano and a well-deserved recovery in the star-shine jacuzzi.

Day 6: Friday, May 17th
Forests of bamboo are marking our picturesque trail up the mountain, while climbing gently but continually to leave the crater to the west. A pleasant and rather easy ride in comparison to the dramatic slopes we conquered so far. In the remoteness, we only come across a few small farmhouses, where the highland farmers scratch a meager income from the steep, infertile land beside the forest.
The higher we climb, the more the cloud-forest covered mountains and valleys we leave behind unfold below us like from a bird's perspective. An ecofriendly cottage or family stay awaits us in the mountain village Yunguilla, which is dedicated to a self-sustaining community-tourism project for many years. A lot to learn about sustainable development for who is interested.

Day 7: Saturday, May 18th
Want to check out how the villagers produce their own cheese and jam? Happy to invite you for a little tour.
Back on our horses, once again, we go hunting for traces of lively Ecuadorian history. After a scenic ride along the ridge, we dive into the north-western cloud forests and the land of the Toucan.
 
An ancient smuggler’s path, where cane- schnapps was transported on mules from the coast to the highlands during the time of the prohibition, leads through narrow hollow earth tunnels within thick jungle. We emerge on the other side to more spectacular high Andean view-points, - in case the afternoon clouds still allow the view!
Accommodation in the private guest house of Marcelo and Maritza at Pelagallo, sitting alone on the ridge.

Day 8: Sunday, May 19th
Short morning ride to regain the road leading towards the Pacific Coast and Ecuador’s birding paradise Mindo. We’ll swap from four legs to four wheels to drive to Bellavista Bird Lodge.
We'll be welcomed into a unique lodge with hot showers and delicious, wholesome food. The bamboo-built, rounded “dome house”, allows a 360-degree few on the vivid bird- and plant-life around us: The place is surrounded by hundreds of colorful hummingbirds, Toucans and bright blue shining Jays. From the balcony of the dome house, we can enjoy a breath-taking view far over the cloud forest and listen to the sounds of exotic birds, before the afternoon mist races in.

Day 9: Monday, May 20st
After a hearty breakfast, and last pictures of the buzzing humming birds, we’ll continue our journey to Mindo, where the visit of a unique butterfly museum, an organic chocolate factory or a zip-lining adventure over the forest’s canapé are options to fill another memory-building day. Return to Pululahua for a last amazing riding adventure.

Day 10: Tuesday, May 21st
More wide open views to expect! Today, we’ll be taking a closer look on the pre-inca hill Portalanza that we’ve seen from afar on other riding days. Along flower fields for exportation, sugar cane, banana and pineapple plants, we approach the narrow ridge between Rio Blanco and Rio Tanache, which we will follow down to the plains, where once stood a Quitu-Cara village, - today only swaying grass in the wind.
The view is truly breath-taking, and you can still breath the history of the spot. We’ll enjoy our lunch to the sound of the crickets, while viewing vultures and hawks sailing above us. Return ride through jungly mountain forest and house-high elephant grass. Back to our little hostel, well-deserved freedom for our horses and jacuzzi for us if desired. 

Day 11: Wednesday, May 22nd
Over the last 10 days, we have explored and experienced much of the heights and depth of the Western Andean Cordillera. Before we finish our adventure, we’d like to offer you an impression of the Eastern Cordillera with its rugged, rock-broken Paramo vegetation as well, to complete the picture. Let’s do this while enjoying a dive in the beautiful volcanic springs of Papallacta, close to snow-capped Antizana volcano. Strained muscles from our rides and hikes will be smoothened in a minute. Accommodation close to the springs.

Day 12: Thursday, May 23rd
Transfer to hotel in Quito at Casa Gangotena after breakfast.

* this custom itinerary is subject to changes *

Calacalí area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	67	67	67	67	67	68	68	69	69	68	68	67
Average Low Temperature (°F)	50	50	50	50	50	49	48	49	48	49	49	49
Average High Temperature (°C)	20	19	19	19	20	20	20	20	21	20	20	19
Average Low Temperature (°C)	10	10	10	10	10	9	9	9	9	9	9	10

Source: NOAA

 

Seasons
A national weather forecast does not exist, as the weather in the Andes is extremely local and fast changing, and really not predictable. The weather in the crater is also very different from the weather in Quito.

Very roughly, rainy season runs from November to April/May, dry season from June to October, but it can always rain in the dry season and be totally dry for weeks in the rain season.

If sunny, the sun is very strong and intense. If raining, it typically rains in the afternoon when we're finished or nearly finished with the ride. The rainy season is especially nice, as the landscape then is green, lush, and everything on flower.

 

We will be crossing different climate zones and the temperature on the Equator drops steeply at sundown. There can be a temperature variation between 5 and 30 degrees Celsius. Both light and warm clothes are therefore a must. The best equipped is to wear light, long-sleeved tops during the day (these provide protection from sun, thorns and insect bites, too). A sweatshirt, pullover or fleece jacket are required for the cooler parts.

Furthermore, you should bring a jacket (Gore- Tex or similar), rain gear, a hat with brim and solid shoes/boots with a good grip. Wellington boots are better suited to the short marches on foot than proper riding boots, plus protect your legs from the rubbing of the stirrups.

Don't forget your insect repellent, sun-cream, sunglasses, camera, and small water bottle.

We recommend you to pack a small towel, evtl. swimsuit, flip-flop shoes, bandana, personal medicine and torch/flash-light. Change of clothes, several change of dry socks, and warm clothes for the evenings. For your personal belongings during the ride, we recommend you to bring a fanny-pack or bum-bag. The luggage that travels with us in the car should be stored in soft bags.

Note: It’ is not mandatory in Ecuador but we always recommend to ride with a helmet. We have some at your disposition. If you wish to use one, it is best nevertheless to bring your own for better fit.

 

The following lists are items recommended for each ride; these lists are not exhaustive and are only meant as a guideline

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

Riding chaps

Thin long johns/ stockings are useful under trousers

Change of trousers

Strong boots

Riding helmet  (recommended for all trips)

Riding gloves

Wide brimmed hat (Stetson style, available in Quito)

Long sleeved cotton shirts

Warm, waterproof jacket (suitable for cold evening temperatures)

Bandana to protect mouth and nose from dust on the desert parts

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Evening wear (trousers, shirt and sweater for the hotels)

Trainers or canvas shoes

Hiking/riding boots with a good grip for walking sections

Swim suit for baths in the river and under the waterfalls

Small towel

Flip-flop shoes for the waterfalls and bath rooms

Thick socks

Thick jumper (there are beautiful examples all over Ecuador for you to purchase)

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for an emergency)

Sewing kit

Camera and extra film or batteries

Belly or Fanny pack

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

Flashlight

 

 

 

Average ratings from 1 tour feedback (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date callie meiners 3/16/2018

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations. You will be staying in 5 different locations total.

Description
We always have several options for the accommodations each night, depending on availability. Accommodations along the trail are basic, but cozy and feature a variety of room arrangements from single to triple rooms. All rooms are private and bathrooms are often shared but sometimes private. In a few places, hot water is not always guaranteed.
We generally stay in locally owned accommodation with a lot of charm. Each accommodation is unique and this is what makes this trip so interesting and enjoyable.

Night 1: Casa Gangotena in Quito
Nights 2 & 3: Ranch in Pululahua crater
Night 4: Jesuit Hacienda Niebli de la Compañia or Aguacatal
Night 5: Ranch in Pululahua crater
Night 6: Ecofriendly cottage or family stay in Yunguilla
Night 7: Guesthouse in Pelagallo
Night 8: Bellavista Bird Lodge
Nights 9 & 10: Ranch in Pululahua crater
Night 11: Accommodation close to the springs of Papallacta

Wi-Fi Internet access is only available at the ranch, in Pululahua crater.
Laundry services are usually available.

Room Occupancy
Single supplement is not mandatory if we cannot find another rider to share your room.


Meals
All meals are included except for dinner on day 9 and lunch and dinner on day 1 and 10.

Alcoholic drinks are not included in this trip but guests are welcome to bring their own if they wish.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English and Montura de Vaquería (Western type), also Colombian saddles that are like a mixture between English and Western (deeper English or: flatter Western)
Horses:		creole horses and several other cross-breads (as American Pinto, Andalusian, Anglo-Arab, Paso Fino, Polo Horse). Horse size ranges from 1,40m to 1,70m heights (about 13 to 16 hands)
Pace:		Daily 3-6 hours Mountainous terrain, trip is designed as a trekking with the horse through the Andes, therefore our main pace is walking, but always nice trot-, canter- and gallop-sections as well. | Walk | Trot | Canter | Gallop |
Level:		(3.5 out of 5)    Good Intermediate
Age:		Min 14
Weight:		Max 185 lb
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 8 riders

Horses
We keep a group of 27 horses: creole horses and several other cross-breads (as American Pinto, Andalusian, Anglo-Arab, Paso Fino, Polo Horse). All our horses are very well trained, sure-footed and forward going. Some have a gait. Horse size ranges from 1,40m to 1,68m heights (about 13 to 16 hands) and both, English and Western tack is available.

Riding Ability
We ride through varying terrain; some parts quite steep and open ground.  Enjoyment from these rides can be increased if you are physically fit and your riding muscles toned. Clients always have the choice to take the accompanying vehicle instead of riding, also if they feel sick etc.

Guides/Grooms
Guests are accompanied by a guide that speaks English/Spanish/French and German and one local groom. The guides and grooms have excellent local knowledge of the highlands of Ecuador and are expert riders. The guides have many years of experience guiding on and off horseback. Professional guides speaking other languages are available on prior request.

Passports

Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals referred to in the chart.

Passport Note

Passports must be carried at all times.



Visas

Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.

Note: (a) A measles vaccination certificate is required by all nationals travelling from Germany and Italy and must be shown on arrival. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Visa Note

Extensions of a further 90 days are available through the local immigration authorities. 

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No
Return Ticket Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	Yes

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.