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Volcano Avenue and Cotopaxi Ride
Highlands Riding Tours
Ecuador
Thirteen amazing
days in the highlands of Ecuador!
Explore the Volcano Avenue area - riding around the impressive Cotopaxi
Volcano and staying overnight at several historic Ecuadorian haciendas. Mode of transportation will
be our four-legged friends - the incredibly agile and sure-footed Criollo horses of
highland Ecuador - only two road transfers are needed during the entire 13-day trip! We will visit the authentic
indigenous market in
Saquisili, stay at authentic working haciendas and enjoy delicious
evening meals around the warm fireplace or have a barbecue feast over an open fires. Along the way we will enjoy a Chargas (cowboy) demonstration and some lasso practice.
Our horses will take us through the Cloud Forest, across the the wide open Pampas, through the Machahi Valley, the flat lands of the Mulalo Valley and up into the tall mountains of the Cotopaxi - ranging between 3000 and 4000 meters with views over peaks that are over 5000 meters high (15,000 feet). There will be very few signs of civilization during this adventure other than a few traditional and rural villages. And there is always a good chance you will see the herds of wild horses living in these highlands - which is always a great highlight for all!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Quito Airport or Hotel
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Airport:
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Quito
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Transfer:
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Quito
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations (12 overnight stays at highland haciendas with 10 riding day), all meals featuring delicious, gourmet international and Ecuadorian foods and wines, bilingual guide (English, Spanish), support vehicle, all the necessary equipment, as wool ponchos, rain ponchos and chaps, horsebag, helmets
| A | 2013 | 13 day ride, AP | 13d / 12n | $2990 |
Rates do not include:
Airport tax
Day 1 Arrive to Quito, transfer to Hacienda La Alegria (2890 metres). Overnight here.
Day 2 In the morning, after breakfast, you will try the horses by riding in a closed arena until you feel comfortable with your horse and tack. Today’s ride is an acclimatizing ride around the hacienda surroundings. You will observe the green valley of Machachi and the soaring mountains of the Volcano Avenue, where we will be riding in the next days. Time to relax and tour the stable while cows are milked. Afternoon visit to Flower farm. Overnight at Hacienda La Alegria. (3 hours riding)
Day 3 Today we visit the Saquisili market, one of the largest traditional markets of Ecuador. The market encompasses various plazas and sells live stock, food produce, antique artifacts, handcrafts and more. Overnight at Hacienda La Alegria.
Day 4 Today we get back on our horses and ride towards the west through the dairy farms and up to 3500 meters. We continue behind the Viudita mountain (3800 metres) with the opportunity to ascend to the top. We will have a snack and come back to Hacienda La Alegria for a late lunch. Enjoy the evening in the fireplace room listening to local music and a comfortable evening. Overnight at Hacienda La Alegria. (5 hours, 25km riding)
Day 5 Chagra demonstration and lasso practice in the morning, Hacienda la Alegria for lunch and ride to Bomboli cloud forest, located on the skirts of Corazon. We will arrive at Hacienda Bomboli (3000 mts) and will have time for a short walk and appreciate beautiful orchids, fern trees and guneras before supper. Overnight at Bomboli. (4 hours, 19 kms riding)
Day 6 We leave behind the cloud forest and ascend to the Corazon Volcano up to 4,000 meters. From there we can appreciate the green and fertile Machachi Valley and we can also see the routes we will take the next day. Crossing extensive pastures and eucalyptus forests we initiate the descent toward the valley. Snack and continue to the valley. Overnight at Sierra Loma. (6 hours, 23 kms riding)
Day 7 We ride towards the valley up to Santa Cruz mountain (3800 metres) and have a last view of the Machachi Valley from the south side. From there we will be able to observe closer the peaks of the two Illinizas (5100 metres),. On a clear day is possible to see the active Tungurahua volcano and Chimborazo, the highest volcanoe of Ecuador. We enjoy lunch with nice panoramic view. Afterward we descend to the valley and arrive to Hacienda La Cienega built 1570, with the option of a relaxing massage, a nice dinner and a comfortable night. Overnight at Hacienda La Cienega. (8 hours, 40 kms riding)
Day 8 Today we cross the flat lands of the Mulalo valley, we continue towards the east until arrive to Hacienda Pansache (3600 metres) located at the skirts of the Cotopaxi Volcano. We have our lunch at the lowest point of the area a small valley 20 km, close to a river from the melted snow of Cotopaxi.Arrive to the hacienda and we have the possibility to enjoy a relaxing, natural hot spring bath at 3600 mts high. Overnight at Hacienda Pansache. (7 hours, 32km riding)
Day 9 We continue ascending to Morro and Quilindana volcano as we leave behind the pine forests and appreciate the change of vegetation from the valley to the paramo. Lunch at the Hacienda, time to relax and enjoy the area or trout fish at the close river. Overnight: Hacienda Chalupas. (4.5 hours, 22 kms riding)
Day 10 Today we ride towards the west through the valleys that have been formed in the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano by the lava. We ride up to 4200 metres and then down towards the valley to the refuge. On our ride we will cover four mountain valleys, small herds of wild horses and the majestic Cotopaxi close to us are a must. Overnight at Refuge Tambopaxi. (8 hours, 45 kms riding)
Day 11 Ride at Lipiopungo plains (Cotopaxi base) where feels like if you were riding on the moon’s surface. Here we do the highest gallop in the world. Pass to the highest point of our ride (4,200 metees) on the edges of the rocks of the Ruminahui Volcano. We continue our ride toward the green Machachi valley as always guarded by the volcanoes avenue. We cross the Machachi Plaza where the horsemen are always welcomed; we pass the town of Aloag and arrive to Hacienda La Alegria for a pleasant dinner and rest time. Overnight at Hacienda La Alegria. (7.5 hours, 41 kms)
Day 12 We have a nice visit to the old city, churches, museums, lunch and dinner on the area to feel and understand the local culture and traditions. Overnight at a nice charming hotel in the old city.
Day 13 Transfer to airport after breakfast.
Meeting:
Quito Airport or Hotel
Airport:
Quito
Transfer:
Quito
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Tack:
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North American style, English style, Mclellan calvary, Chillean and traditional Ecuadorian "Chagra" style with its intricate leather-work and saddle horn.
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Horses:
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mixed Criollo (native South American), English Thoroughbred and Arabian stock
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Pace:
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5-7 hours of riding daily
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
12
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
190 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Included: 9 days on horseback +1 market day + 1 Quito tour
Approximate Riding Schedule:
Day 1: no riding
Day 2: 3 hours
Day 3: no riding
Day 4: 5 hours, 25km
Day 5: 4+ hours, 19 km
Day 6: 6 hours, 23km
Day 7: 8 hours, 40km
Day 8: 7 hours, 32km
Day 9: 4.5 hours, 22km
Day 10: 8 hours, 45 km
Day 11: 7.5 hours, 41km
Day 12: no riding
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least six months required by all nationals referred to in the chart.Passport NotePassports must be carried at all times. Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart ab. more
Temperatures in Cotopaxi National Park and the surrounding region vary little throughout the year. The average daytime temperature is 45° F (7°C).
Seasonal variations and night-time temperatures range between freezing 32°F (90°C) and 68°F (20° C). Visitors are recommended to bring several layers of clothes including a warm sweater and protective rain-wind jacket, hat and gloves.
The rainy seasons run between January and May and October and November. The main dry season of June to September though the strong winds are known to occur. December also has a short dry season and the time around Christmas is normally considered the best weather of the year.
Clothing:
Shirt: Cotton or wool, long sleeved or turtleneck
Sweater: Heavy wool or fleece sweater or vest
Trousers: Full length, wool, blend, or pile or other warm pants
Underwear: Light-weight (polypropylene) thermal underwear, top and bottom
Headwear: Skycap, wool hat or wide brim felt hat, bandana, and sunglasses
Jackets: Insulated or Gore-Tex mountain parka for rain and wind (important)
Gloves: Wool, leather, or polypropylene, recommended water proof
Socks: Wool or polypropylene
Footwear: Tennis shoes, lightweight hiking boots, or runner boots (if
your shoe size is 9.5 US or less, boots are available at Hacienda La
Alegria).
Camping Equipment:
-10 degree C rated sleeping bag
At request we can provide the sleeping bag
Accessories:
Cosmetic kit (reduce to minimum)
Sunglasses
Sunblock +30 and lipstick ointments (important)
Flashlight with extra batteries
Washcloth
Camera extra batteries
Binoculars
There is no set weight limit for your luggage as it will be transferred by car.
Wool ponchos, rain ponchos, chaps, horsebag and helmets are provided.
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… this list is only a guideline for you
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Hidden Trails Travel Documents and TripVoucher (contains important local tour contact info.)
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Flight tickets
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Passport
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Visa (check with your consulate)
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RIDING GEAR
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Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!)
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Riding boots (short) + Minichaps
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Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)
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Riding gloves
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Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection
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Lightweight Rain coat
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PERSONAL CLOTHING
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Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
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Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts
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Jeans
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Shorts
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Underwear and socks
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Pyjama
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Bag for dirty clothes
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Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes
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Swimsuit
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For Camping trips:
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Sleeping Bag
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Ground Mat (Thermarest or foam mattress)
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Towel and small bar of soap
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ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING
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Personal Toiletries
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Insect protection
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Personal medications
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Sore cream (for an emergency)
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Sewing kit
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Torch/ Flashlight
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Adapter for electric appliances
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Camera and extra film or batteries
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Belt pack
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Address book and pen (for postcards!)
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Sun glasses with strap
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Sun protection lotion and lip balm
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Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Hacienda Alegria has very nice and
comfortable accommodations. The ranches along the way are more basic,
but all authentic and comfortable. The lodging in the Cloud Forest does
not have electricity and one day is camping (camping gear is supplied).
Accommodations Schedule:
Day 1: Hacienda La Alegria - home base
Day 2: Hacienda La Alegria
Day 3: Hacienda La Alegria
Day 4: Hacienda La Alegria
Day 5: Bomboli
Day 6 Sierra Loma
Day 7: Hacienda La Cienega
Day 8: Hacienda Pansache, camping
Day 9: Hacienda Chalupas
Day 10: Refuge Tambopaxi
Day 11: Hacienda La Alegria
Day 12: Hotel in the historic Quito
Hacienda Alegria:
The home
base hacienda is nestled amidst lush surroundings in the typical
fertile lush green farmland of the Ecuadorian inter Andean plain at a
fairly high altitude. You will be welcomed with a roaring log fire in
the sitting room, and in your bedroom when the nights are cold. There
is internet access available at La Alegria and in the Cotopaxi Lodge.
The Hacienda was build in 1910 in Franco Italian Style and has been
renovated and restored and is surrounded by beautiful gardens awash
with colorful flowers and native trees, including some species in
danger of extinction such as the wax palm. Most rooms have private
bathroom and fireplaces. There will be plenty of time to relax in front
of the fire place after an incredible day in the saddle.
This
is the family home of the Espinosas. Your host Gabriel comes from a
long tradition of equestrian sports. His grandfather bred racing horses
close to Quito and his father, Renato Espinosa was a keen polo player.
Gabriel followed in the same footsteps as a young man, horse-jumping
and playing competitive polo. The hacienda is full of fascinating
equestrian heirlooms, including antique side-saddles, cattle brands and
traditional "Chagra" (Andean cowboy) tack.
Gabriel and Paty's three
daughters are all keen riders, and the enthusiasm of the whole family
is reflected in the quality of the horses at the farm.
While at Alegria: Gourmet
meals provided by Hacienda La Alegria, lunch only in the Corazon
mountain (day four) a snack, other days' lunch and dinner will be
either chicken, meat, or pasta; vegetables served with rice or
potatoes; always a typical Ecuadorian soup and desert with all meals.
Drinks: water, juices or coke. Breakfast: coffee, tea, cocoa or oat
meal, eggs and/or french toast, natural fruit juice and fruit of the
season.
Dinner will be served
in a cozy dining room with a fire place and the food is freshly
wholesome home cooking cooked from local crops.
The Hacienda is made of
adobe and stone its walls are over 80 cm thick!! Lots of character. The
Hacienda also has a large working cattle farm with nearly 250 head of
cattle producing dairy products. So for those who want to give it a try
you can help milking the cows or feeding the calves, or try lassoing a
bull.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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North American style, English style, Mclellan calvary, Chillean and traditional Ecuadorian "Chagra" style with its intricate leather-work and saddle horn.
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Horses:
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mixed Criollo (native South American), English Thoroughbred and Arabian stock
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Pace:
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5-7 hours of riding daily
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
12
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Max
70
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Weight:
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Max
190 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Included: 9 days on horseback +1 market day + 1 Quito tour
Approximate Riding Schedule:
Day 1: no riding
Day 2: 3 hours
Day 3: no riding
Day 4: 5 hours, 25km
Day 5: 4+ hours, 19 km
Day 6: 6 hours, 23km
Day 7: 8 hours, 40km
Day 8: 7 hours, 32km
Day 9: 4.5 hours, 22km
Day 10: 8 hours, 45 km
Day 11: 7.5 hours, 41km
Day 12: no riding
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.
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Volcano Avenue and Cotopaxi Ride
Tour Code:
IT-ECRT07
13 days /
12 nights
~$2,990.00
Dates :
January to December
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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