Horseback riding in Haciendas, Ecuador

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- Cotopaxi Getaway
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Horseback riding vacations in Ecuador, Haciendas

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Equestrian tours in Ecuador, Haciendas
Cotopaxi Getaway


Itinerary for Cotopaxi Getaway




Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Note: This sample itinerary is subject to changes at the tour operator's discretion due to unforeseen reasons such as weather, track conditions... The itinerary can also be adapted to the different group's needs.

Day 1: Introductory Ride
We start with a drive out of Quito, in a south-east direction where we meet the horses (our exact start point depends on the desired length of today’s ride). Once guests are comfortable, we ride south towards Cotopaxi Volcano, the 2nd highest active volcano in the world. Crossing a river, we reach wide stretches of pasturelands and a chance for faster-paced riding for those that wish. We traverse the lower slopes of the foothills of Sincholagua and follow the River Pita before fording its clear waters. En route we often see the large Andean raptors – including eagles, caracaras, hawks and smaller kestrels. Frequently we also spot the mighty Andean Condor soaring overhead – with a 3 metre (10ft) wingspan!
We spend the night at a comfortable Hacienda, close to the northern entrance of Cotopaxi National Park, with magnificent views of five surrounding peaks – including the snow-capped Cotopaxi.
Riding approx. 2-5 hours
Meals included: Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda in Cotopaxi National Park


Day 2: Inca Routes & Wild Horses
We ride into Cotopaxi National Park on our sure-footed Criollo horses for some exhilarating canters (for those that wish) across the wide, arid plains at the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano. The horses enjoy the open spaces but have such a calm temperament that they settle into a rhythm without trying to rush. Several herds of wild horses inhabit the park and to ride alongside these long-manned horses, galloping freely across the rugged terrain, is a unique experience. Part of this ride follows the main Inca highway which linked Quito with Cusco, Peru, which we then we turn eastwards from in order to follow the Inca route leading down to the Amazon. We pause to visit the remains of an Inca fort before continuing on through the gently undulating grassy hills, passing drumlins and moraine – crossing lahas and old lava flows then eventually returning to the Hacienda.
Riding approx. 5-6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hacienda in Cotopaxi National Park


Day 3: Volcanoes & Hidden Valleys
We head up the slopes of Rumiñahui Volcano (‘stoneface’) with an excellent chance of close encounters with the Andean condor, fox and deer. We pass polylepis trees (‘paperbark trees’) and alisos and other native plants such as chuquiragua and valeriana and a host of colourful native flowers hugging the hillsides. We climb above 4,000 metres (13,123 ft) then drop down into a hidden valley, cantering across pumice stone to arrive at the base of impressive vertical cliffs for another delicious picnic. Emerging from the valley, the views are unforgettable: ridges and vales as far as the eye can see – yet more indelible memories to take home on this the last day of riding.
Riding approx. 5-6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast & Picnic Lunch


Non-Riders
If non-riders wish to accompany the tour, alternative activities can be organized for them and on most days, everyone can meet up for mid-day meals. 
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Cotopaxi Getaway
Tour Code: IT-ECSR09
3 days / 2 nights
Dates : Available all Year

Difficulty : Riding Level
Riding Level Explained
ABeginner
Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter.
BNovice
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.
CIntermediate
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.
EAdvanced
All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country.
Lodging: Standard
Lodging Level Explained
   
= Facilities in lodges, estancias, haciendas, resorts, etc.
   
Basic lodging - some with shared bathroom facilities, usually no AC or room service.
Regular standard room - usually with private bath.
 Accommodations with superior comforts.
   
 = Trips with nights in tent camps. Sometimes the first and last night are in hotels.
   
Basic tent camping - everyone helps out with camp chores.
Regular standard with some camp amenities and camp cook.
Camping facilities with superior comforts like camp shower, bathroom facility..
   
 = Trips that combine nights in hotels and camping.
   
Basic accommodation and basic camping facilities can be expected.
Regular standard with some nicer amenities.
Only assigned to hotel and camping facilities with superior comforts.

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Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accommodation
Tack: McClellan western style saddles with s...
Horses: Local criollo crossed with Andalusian,...
Pace: Riding lessons available for beginners
Walk, Trot, Canter,
Airport: Quito
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
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Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
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