Transfer Option:

Day 1: We drive out of Quito and meet the horses (1h). This first day offers a very varied route including some tricky sections – where we dismount and let the horses negotiate the rocky riverbeds on their own, and also some riding along country lanes, through forests and across grasslands (5-6hrs). We arrive at a working hacienda (ranch) and have to carefully negotiate the pastures - this farm is famous for its feisty Spanish fighting bulls! The scenery is spectacular and very varied with green valleys and rolling hills and we are surrounded by jagged rocky summits and snow capped peaks. We leave the horses to descend down the valley to a beautiful old Jesuit hacienda in time for tea, then to admire the sunset in magnificent surroundings. A delicious 4 course dinner and overnight at this magnificent hacienda with verandas and large flowering gardens. PL, D. Shared bathrooms (option of paying a supplement for a suite with private bathroom).
Day 2: Rejoining the horses, we follow tracks and cobbled roads through deep gorges then up the valley to a very large hacienda (ranch). Taking to huge grassy fields we enjoy some exhilarating canters across the pastures and ride towards Cotopaxi National Park approaching the perfectly conical shape of the snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano (the highest active volcano in the world) (7-8hrs). Sincholagua, a rocky summit that dominates the skyline, clearly marks the continental divide – the precipitation that falls the western side runs down and ends up on the Ecuadorian coast, in the Pacific Ocean, while that of the eastern sides eventually joins the Amazon and goes on to the Atlantic Ocean, via Brazil. Having avoided the fighting bulls (this hacienda is famous for its feisty Spanish bulls!), we turn westwards, cross a river and arrive at a working farm at the base of Ruminahui Volcano for overnight in this cosy, very traditional adobe and thatch farmhouse. AB, PL, D. Partitioned twin rooms with shared bathrooms (single rooms available & rooms with private bathroom).
Day 3: Today we climb up through the huge pastures of the hacienda cattle ranch into the high ‘paramo’ (the natural Andean vegetation below the snow line), through a sea of long grass then areas of low bushes and lichen covered ground. There are some steep ascents and descents. Hillstars (Andean hummingbirds) flit around between the native Andean bushes and caracaras and birds of prey also inhabit these hillsides. Condors have been sighted soaring overhead. We often meet some of the wild horses that roam the area, long manes and tails flowing as they gallop alongside us, curious to ‘check us out’. Crossing streams and wetlands at the head of a valley and following the tracks made by the wild horses and bulls close to the craggy Ruminahui peak we reach 4000m then descend into the Cotopaxi national park. There is a chance of some fast paced riding on the flat, open plains close to the volcano. Overnight at a ‘hosteria’ in a truly stunning location, with spectacular views of Cotopaxi volcano, the national park and other peaks. Twin & double rooms with private bathrooms (very limited number of single rooms available). AB, PL, D.
Day 4: Today we ride south through the Cotopaxi national park. The ride starts with some exhilarating canters across the arid expanses and lunar-like landscapes. Then we ride down into the ‘Avenue of Volcanoes’ aptly named by Von Humboldt, an early explorer, who spent a lot of time studying in this area. The views are magnificent, with rocky, rounded, glacier-covered and snow sprinkled volcanoes lining the central valley (6hrs). Our destination is a small hamlet in the Lasso valley. Riding by pine and native forests we make our way along sandy tracks -ideal for some more fast-pace riding. In places we ride over layers of pumice stone deposited by the volcanoes. We often pass the local ladies wearing brightly coloured, pleated skirts and their traditional hats. The original houses in this area are built of dried grass laid over a wooden frame and, from the back, look like haystacks rather than dwellings, nevertheless happy children come piling out to chase their llamas, pigs and sheep off to grazing. We leave the horses in pastures and take a short drive to a ‘hosteria’, another charming location with a cosy bar-dining area. The original building was a farmhouse and the owners have put fireplaces in each room and riders enjoy a very comfortable night. Double/twin rooms with fireplaces and private bathrooms. AB, PL, D. 
Day 5: We once again leave the thatched huts and patchwork fields behind and ride across the huge expanses of wild grasslands. Enjoying views of several of the snow capped peaks of the ‘Avenue of Volcanoes’: with Chimborazo (Ecuador’s highest peak) and Tungurahua in the distance (actually erupting at the moment) we cross the beautiful paramo grasslands, without a house in sight. After another delicious picnic in the breathtaking scenery, we cross over a ridge and come even closer to Cotopaxi Volcano. Very few people manage to visit this stunning area and the wonderful tranquility and huge expanses of open space, almost uninhabited, is appreciated by all. Amid amazing scenery, riding along a river bed and across the grasslands close to the jagged Quilindana summit, riders appreciate the vastness off this Andean habitat. There is a good chance of seeing the mighty Andean condor, deer and Andean fox. We occasionally meet a lone ‘chagra’ (Andean cowhand) with his trusty dog riding out to check the cattle. As we round a hill and cross some native scrubland we often sight Antisana Volcano complete with its massive glacier. The house we stay at tonight is a ‘tambo’ built out of Inca stone –roaring fires and lovely staff ensure a warm welcome and once again guests can enjoy the incredible location. There is no light pollution and the Equator-line sky is packed with stars, including the Southern Cross. Twin bedded rooms (partitions dividing the sleeping areas) in this charming house built of Inca stone, shared bathrooms. AB, PL, D.
Day 6: Today we turn west and ride back into Cotopaxi National Park, through the northern foothills of the volcano. Leaving the ‘tambo’ (Inca overnight stopover point) we have a long ride ahead (7-8hrs). Firstly following a wide river floodplain we then cross the river and carefully traverse the marshlands between a series of small lakes. Andean duck, teal and also Ibis are often seen here, among the wild iris and other Andean flora. The valley then opens out and we follow a lava flow with strange conical hills ‘popping out’ at intervals – these mounds were formed by volcanic hotspots (now cooled down!) and create quite a bizarre topography. There is a large herd of alpaca, bred for their wonderful soft wool – their long necks and strange way of moving is quite a sight. We ride onto some wonderful grassy plains allowing for some long canters – often joined by the wild horses that roam the area, until we arrive at our accommodation for the night: a ‘hosteria’ with the tall grasses growing in the ‘paramo’ used as thatch. The walls are made of bales of hay covered with plaster; this design very successfully keeps the cold Andean nighttime temperatures outside. The hosteria is a new building and very thoughtfully decorated. Again, the location is unbelievable, surrounded by four Andean peaks and enjoying a stunning view of the mighty Cotopaxi Volcano.  Twin/double rooms with one bathroom per two rooms (option to pay supplement for room with private bathroom). AB, PL, D.
Day 7: We ride out for a final day in the wild Andes (6-7 hrs). After some fast paced riding, we climb up along grassy trails then along paths over ridges close to the summit of Sincholagua.  As we cross the expanses of grassland and admire the seemingly endless views -not a fence or even a hut for miles around, we have an excellent view of the peculiar geological features such as drumlins, hillocks, mud and lava flows produced by ice age (glacial) activity and then various eruptions of the volcanoes. We pass near native Andean woodlands and also enjoy the sight of brightly coloured tiny Andean wildflowers – Indians’ paintbrush, gentians, deer’s head, lupins, all seemingly too fragile to survive in the highlands. The ‘chagras’ (local horsemen, dressed in brightly coloured ponchos) that guide us across this haunting landscape spend their lives here and carefully lead us between the muddy wetlands, across mountain streams and the steep slopes. This is another good spot to see the Andean condor and eagles, falcons, hawks and caracara are often seen soaring or hovering overhead while hunting for food. Descending Sincholagua, we meet a track that takes us back down to civilization. Saying farewell to our local guides (chagras) and trusty steeds, guests are driven back to Quito for overnight. Twin/double rooms with private bathroom. AB, PL.
Day 8:  Following breakfast, guests are accompanied to the airport in time for their outward flights, or are picked up at their hotel to continue on extensions. CB.

Key: AB= cooked breakfast, CB= continental breakfast PL= picnic lunch (different menus, not just a sandwich), D=dinner.

Note:  The ride is planned as a complete circuit around the volcano but, due to the varying weather conditions, flexibility is needed and the actual route and accommodation may not be finalized until just before the ride.

The climate in the Ecuadorian highlands allows us to offer rides all year round. During the day the temperatures can rise to 28C, although most days start with a crisp 8-10C and the night-time temperature can be 4C. At night around the crater lakes the temperature can drop to freezing.

This temperature change is most marked from June to November. From December to May the days remain cooler (25C) and the nights not quite as cold.

In the 'rainy' season (October to May in most areas) the rain does not fall daily and is hardly ever prolonged. Afternoon showers occur, by then the day's ride is over. The strong possibility of heavy afternoon rains make camping inadvisable in May and October so the overnight stops on the adventure rides are altered slightly to eliminate camping. Rain ponchos are available for each guest.

ALTITUDE

This ride takes place at above 2600m.

All the hotels have telephones and on certain rides mobile telephones and/or radios are carried.

Guests are kindly requested on all rides to take a minimum of personal belongings with them. Pack animals or a vehicle bring on guests belongings to the Haciendas. Luggage storage can be organized in Quito during the ride.

All bed linen and towels will be provided on the tours. No camping. Sleeping bag not needed.

Equipment provided  (where applicable):

- Rain ponchos
- Chaps/ Half Chaps (a few pairs are available on prior request).

Please bring enough film and batteries especially film/cartridges/memory cards for more modern equipment.  (We advise 400ASA for 35mm cameras.)  The backup vehicle can carry video cameras for guests but the vehicle will not be with the riders all the time. At altitude batteries tend to run down more quickly.

VALUABLES

Although Ecuador has one of the best records in Latin America for safety we advise:

-please take the minimum valuables and avoid wearing expensive watches/jewellery in public.

-please use the hotel/hacienda safety deposit box.

-please use money belts and do not leave valuables 'on show' or in back/outside pockets.

-while riding, valuables can be handed in to the guide for safe storage.

-in Quito, taxis should always be taken at night.

Ride Andes cannot accept any responsibility for loss/theft during your stay in Ecuador.

Nights are spent in a wonderful mixture of haciendas and farmhouses, built of adobe with thatched roofs, original Inca stone and even a very comfortable lodge built of straw bales covered with adobe. 7 nights in double/twin bedded rooms, mixture of rooms with & without private bathrooms (possible to pay extra charge for private bathroom throughout). On a few nights possibly triple rooms necessary (will confirm at time of booking). Single room possible (limited availability, extra charge applies). Towel needed.
In several places there is a maximum of 6 rooms available. For large groups some triple rooms may be necessary and in certain places a single room may not be possible.
At  the time of booking we will confirm the type of rooms that are available.
Food & drinks: hot breakfast, varied picnic lunches, 3 course hot dinner. Snacks and also bottled water also provided each day. Guests can buy soft drinks & alcohol each evening.

These are the accommodations/lodgings/haciendas we normally stay at during the ride:
HSF/CORELLA, GUAYTARA, CHILCABAMBA, C DE LUNA, EL TAMBO, EL PORV, SIERRA MADRE

In case there are not 4 riders signed up for a trip, clients can decide to pay the small group supplement or we make some changes to the itinerary with alternate accommodations.
Haciendas we stay at in this case are:
HSF/CORELLA, GUAYTARA, GUAYTARA, CHILCABAMBA, EL PORVENIR, EL PORVENIR, SIERRA MADRE

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		‘McClennan’ western style saddles with sheepskin seats
Horses:		Local criollo crossed with Andalusian, Arab, Thoroghbread, Peruvian Pasos.
Pace:		Pace is varied due to the terrain with canters but no extended gallops due to altitude above 4000 meters. Guests will have to lead horses from time to time. Average of 5 - 7 riding hrs per day | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(3.5 to 5 out of 5)    Strong Intermediate
Weight:		Max 210 lbs
Riders:		Min 4 riders	Max 10 riders

A ride for fit riders capable of riding in a multitude of challenging terrains and spending long days in the saddle. We strongly advise a few days acclimatisation prior to the ride and, to this effect, can arrange a few days riding and a visit to the famous Otavalo market, ‘de-rust’ riding instruction & many other activities in a very different area of the Andean highlands.

Altitude: most of the ride takes place above 3000 metres and we ride at above 4000 metres (4220m). We advise arriving early in Ecuador to acclimatize. Guests must seek medical advice as to whether they are able to be at these altitudes.

Riding ability: intermediate and above – able to canter in open spaces and also be prepared to ride on steep slopes and tricky terrain. Guests need to be riding fit – long days in the saddle with some tough riding. At various points guests may be leading their horses (but not normally over long distances). Please consult with us if you have any doubts.
Rider responsibility
It is understood that guests booking this trip, are in a suitable condition to participate, not riding against any physician's advice and that guests know of no reason why they should not be participating in such a tour. Guests will be required to sign a waiver of liability at the start of the tour.

Pace:
The pace is very varied due to the great variety of terrain. Each day there are opportunities for fast paced riding and on the last few days of the scheduled departure itineraries there is ample opportunity for long canters, depending on the guests' wishes. The rides in Ecuador - due to the altitude - are not suitable for guests wanting to ´gallop flat out´ for most of the day, please consult us for other destinations (the plains in Argentina).

Horses: local criollo breed crossed with Andalusian, Arab, thoroughbred, Peruvian Paso – ideally suited to the terrain.

Equipment/tack: ‘McClennan’ western style saddles with sheepskin seats (easy to ride English style), horses used to neck reining and English style ‘2 hands’. Ponchos and saddlebags for each rider are provided. Sleeping bags not needed. Guides: expert rider leading the trip, bilingual with much experience. Also a skilled, local horseman that knows the back-country accompanies the group.

Grooms: will be present to help guests with the horses. Guests are not expected to tack and untack their horses.

Weight restriction:
Due to the altitude and terrain, there is a weight restriction. The limit is 85kg or 185 lbs. It may be possible to arrange for riders over 85 kg/185lbs (2 horses required), with a supplement to be paid.

Insurance: Guests are responsible for having an adequate, valid insurance policy including cover for all the sporting activities that they are likely to participate in. Appropriate medical insurance is obligatory.

Non-Riders:
If non-riders wish to accompany the tour, alternative activities can normally be organised for them and, during a lot of the rides, everyone can meet up for mid-day meals and at the hotels. Please ask for further details.

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.