Cloudforest & Crater 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, hot valleys and cool windy heights, volcanoes and pristine streams, culture land and tropical wilderness - combined with fascinating insights into Ecuador's natural and social history. Ride with Gaited Horses Center-based ride Ride with Western Tack Meeting: Quito Airport: Quito Transfer: Quito Riders: Min 1 riders Max 5 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

 

Transfer and Other Charges:

Transfers from/to Quito (city or airport) included

This program is quite flexible and can be adapted depending on the riding level of each group. We always explore different trails each day.
The itinerary mentioned below is just to give you an indication of what to expect but the routes will be chosen depending on the group's general level and interests. According to the season, weather conditions, natural incidents or manmade interference, changes to the route may be necessary.

The rides take you on narrow ridges surrounded by majestic mountains, along deep and wide canyons, to volcanic avalanches covered with wild orchids, around tall lava domes or lead you on hidden paths traced by ancient cultures.
While riding through mystical cloud forests, abundant  tropical vegetation, vast landscapes or up to windy heights, you can discover exotic plants, flowers and wildlife along the way and learn about pre Incan cultures, old ruins and volcanic history.


Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

If you prefer to stay near the ranch the night before and/or after the ride, it is possible to book an extra night (supplement applies - please inquire).

Day 1: Lava Dome
Pick up from your hotel in Quito at about 8 am and transfer to the ranch.
We ride around the lava dome and discover the history of the volcano. In the middle of this journey, we will have lunch enjoying beautiful landscapes.
After returning to the ranch, we will transport you to your accommodation.
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Pululahua

Day 2: Canyon Ride
You will wake up to a wonderful breakfast to boost your energy for the day. We will transport you to the ranch to start the ride towards the other side of the canyon.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Pululahua

Day 3: Portalanza Ride
After a nourishing breakfast, we will begin our journey and experience the subtle changes of the micro-climates. Today's ride takes us through old trails to historic sites.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Pululahua

Day 4: Yunguilla Ride
We will ride uphill through lush bamboo forests heading west to the crater rim. The higher we climb, the more the view reveals the mountains and valleys below. We will stop for lunch allowing you to take in the vista.
Tonight, an eco-friendly cottage or family stay awaits us in the mountain village of the Yunguilla community, which is dedicated to a self- sustaining community-tourism project for many years. There is a lot to learn about sustainable development for those interested. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Yunguilla

** Those who chose the 4-day option will be transported back from Yunguilla in the evening (no overnight included) **

Day 5: Cloud Forest
The last day of your ride will start with a delightful breakfast to energize you for the remainder of your adventure with us. You will then go on a tour of the local community projects that make Yunguilla so unique.
See the making of fresh cheese, jams, and the bio-diversity of the gardens. The ride will take you back down through the lush bamboo forests, stopping for lunch and continuing the descent into the Pululahua Crater and back to the ranch where your luggage awaits to transfer you back to Quito. You are expected to be back at the ranch around 4 pm and should arrive in Quito for 6 pm.
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

                                            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
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

** No trip reports found with the tour ID you provided.

Accommodations
The 4-day tour is a stationary program with all nights spent at the same accommodation.
Those who choose the 5-day tour will spend the last night in a different location.

Description
Accommodations are usually basic, but cozy, located in remote areas. Most overnight places are privately-owned, and therefore, they have their own charm.
Bathrooms are shared on most nights but sometimes there are private bathrooms available. Hot water is not always guaranteed.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1-4: Pululahua (Hacienda or Lodge)
Night 5: Yunguilla

Hacienda in Pululahua
This charming old hacienda offers accommodation in renovated stone homes in the community of Nieblí. The 4 stone houses are simple but comfortable and each has its own bathroom with hot water.
There is Wi-Fi internet available in common areas.

Lodge in Pululahua
This property offers beautiful mountain views. You will be accommodated either in a luxurious tent or in one of the lodge rooms. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. There is a small pool where guests can relax in the evening.

Yunguilla
This is a self-sustaining community-tourism project, which offers an authentic experience. There are incredible views over the surrounding mountains and forests.
While staying here you will sleep either in the lodge or in a local family home.

Room Occupancy
Single travelers must pay a single supplement fee.


Meals
All meals are included.

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 can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		South American (similar to Western)
Horses:		Criollos, Paso Peruanos & Peruvian Pasos
Pace:		Riding about 4-6 hours each day | Walk | Trot | Canter | Gallop |
Level:		(3 out of 5)    Intermediate
Weight:		Max 200 lbs / 90 kg
Riders:		Min 1 riders	Max 5 riders

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.
You might have to lead your horse on foot on some sections.

Horses
We have a variety of friendly, well trained, willing and sure-footed horses of different breeds, size and age. On our longer multi-day tours, we might change horses during the program, to give them some rest.
Since their well being is what matters to us the most, all our horses are very well cared for, have custom made and individually fitted equipment and see the farrier, dentist, vet or body worker on a regular basis.

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.