7 days riding, 7 nights accommodation all inclusive. Departure from/return to Quito.
Ride Andes: specialist riding tour operator since 1996.
‘Just three days ago I returned from your Ecuador Colonial Hacienda Tour and would like to say a few comments about it: fantastic, fantastic, fantastic!!!!!! The whole trip was well organised … nothing was too much trouble. The horses were in
superb condition, every day was very well planned with a great
variety of sights. My favourite day? I couldn't possibly say they
were all excellent…’ YW.
‘Words really can't express my feelings about this ride: the
horses were top-notch (Sally does a great job training and caring
for her horses); the food was nourishing and delicious; the
haciendas beyond belief (I'm trying to figure out how I can add a
fireplace to my bedroom at home); Sally's knowledge of the
history of Ecuador and the Quito area is outstanding; the
scenery was spectacular (Cotopaxi is my favorite)…. .’ JH
A journey back in time through areas made for riding
including routes and lodgings exclusive to Ride Andes.
Guests canter along ancient Inca highways and Spanish
colonial routes, between the best preserved ‘haciendas’
(grand colonial farming estates) of South America, in two
stunningly beautiful, yet very distinct areas of the Andean
highlands. Breath-taking views as we cross vast plains and ride through pastoral valleys in a
fascinating region dramatically sculptured by both glacial and volcanic activity. A picture postcard
as we turn every corner: hanging valleys, perfectly conical hills, wild flower covered grassy slopes,
crater lakes and rocky summits. We follow the ‘Avenue of Volcanoes’, skirting the towering, snowcapped
peaks of Cayambe and Cotopaxi (the
highest active volcano in the world) and wandering
through the maze of patchwork fields below.
The days are packed with rides varied in both pace
and scenery and with visits along the way to local
indigenous markets and craft villages where the
customs and rhythm of life have changed little over
the centuries. As well as seeing an array of exotic
Andean fruits, we meet the very friendly locals in
vibrant traditional dress going about their daily
tasks, the children shepherding the unruly pigs and
sheep, the farmers working the land in much the
same way as their forefathers did – a fascinating insight into Andean country life.
Tel: +593 9 9738 221 • E-mail: rideandes@rideandes.com
PO Box 17-7-9882 Quito Ecuador
Horse riding in South America
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Nights are spent in haciendas – historic country houses &
working farms, some dating back to the 17th and 18th
centuries. Warmly greeted by the owners, guests can relax
in front of open fireplaces and enjoy the fine period detail,
atmospheric courtyards and flowering gardens. The
prestigious haciendas that open their doors to us are unique
and hold an important place in the history of Ecuador: most
are still the homes of the noblest of Ecuadorian families
including past presidents and one is the most important Inca
site in northern Ecuador. Hundreds of years after they were
first built, the haciendas continue to welcome visitors to
Ecuador as they once did to such famous guests as Simon
Bolivar and many of the 17th-19th centurys’ greatest scientists and explorers (von Humboldt,
Whymper, Condamine…).
“ THANK YOU FOR A FABULOUS HOLIDAY ON THE HACIENDAS RIDING TOUR!!!. It gets an A+ rating -
based on experiences with 16 other riding holidays on four continents over the past 17 years.” Luis.
“The best of 16 rides I have taken. Truly a dream come true.” Jeff.
“We want to thank you again for such a perfect riding experience! Your attention to every detail made the
ride an unforgettably wonderful experience!” Shari.
ITINERARY: DAY 1: OTAVALO MARKET &
INTRODUCTORY RIDE. Guests are met at Quito airport/Quito hotel by the
guide and driven into the northern area of Ecuador.
We drive through an arid valley with avocado
orchards then into Imbabura province ‘the land of
the lakes’.
Visit to the famous Otavalo market on this the
busiest day of the week. As well as the bustling
craft market and stalls with exotic fruit, there is a
food section where the locals - dressed in their very distinctive traditional costume - come down
from their tiny farms in the mountains to sell their farm produce and buy their weekly supplies.
Then a short drive to a hacienda frequented by the great South
American liberator, Simon Bolivar.
Members of the charming family (horse fanatics themselves!) that have
owned the hacienda for several centuries greet us warmly. With its
courtyards, ornate fountains, terraces and gardens graced with citrus,
palm and monkey puzzle trees it is an ideal location to leisurely drift into
the relaxing Andean surroundings.
Introductory ride (3-4hrs) along the tracks and through the tiny fields on
the slopes of the Imbabura Volcano. We often see the very friendly but
dignified locals in their immaculate traditional dress working in the fields
using hand tools or cattle to work the land. These tiny fields are
Tel: +593 9 9738 221 • E-mail: rideandes@rideandes.com
PO Box 17-7-9882 Quito Ecuador
Horse riding in South America
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surrounded by stone walls and earth banks topped with sisal plants and an array of wild flowers.
Guests first try their horses in an enclosed area before we ride out and the guides and grooms are
always at hand to help.
After a welcome drink in the cozy bar accompanied by the music of an excellent Andean band and
a delicious, traditional dinner (a la carte) overnight at this 18th century hacienda, fireplaces in most
rooms. PL, D.
DAY 2: SACRED IMBABURA & SAN PABLO LAKE. We leave this historic hacienda - once a very
important weaving centre, on horseback and ride on to
another colonial hacienda built in 1602 (5 hrs). We
ride past tiny hamlets of adobe huts, through
woodlands, cross rocky gorges and wind our way around the patchwork fields of quinoa, potatoes,
maize and tree tomato orchards. Magnificent views of the San Pablo lake and the jagged Mojanda
summit as we ride across the slopes of the sacred Imbabura Volcano (extinct) - the focus of many
Inca legends. As well as seeing a great variety of exotic Andean fruits and other crops, we meet
the locals in vibrant traditional dress going about their daily tasks, the children shepherding the
unruly pigs and sheep - trying to keep them off the crops.
Late PM: wander through the beautiful flowering gardens admiring the avocado trees, bromeliads,
orchids and kitchen garden with passion fruit, tree tomato and a host of other interesting plants.
And a very special visit: drive through small villages with thriving
cottage industries, to visit a family of local weavers. This family still
produces exceptionally fine, unique rugs using the ancient pre-Inca
backstrap loom that most weavers have abandoned in favour of more
modern looms. The wool is still dyed using plants and then hand spun
as the family sticks rigidly to the traditional weaving processes.
Overnight at this early 17th Century (1602) hacienda adorned with
local crafts and antiques. Fireplaces in most rooms. Dinner with fresh
ingredients straight from the kitchen garden (a la carte). AB, PL, D.
DAY 3: PASTORAL ZULETA VALLEY
A stunning ride into the beautiful pastoral Zuleta Valley (6-7hrs). Along
country lanes then through eucalyptus forests, we rise out of San
Pablo Valley enjoying wonderful views across the lake and also of
Imbabura volcano, riding onto the plains beyond for some fast-pace
riding. Views of Zuleta valley, the verdant gorges and the ‘paramo’
(the unique Andean habitat of high grasslands) as we pass dewponds and hedges of aloe vera
and spikey agave (sisal) atop mud walls. Following sandy tracks, we then descend into the Zuleta
valley with dramatic views across to the hanging valleys and rocky ridges above. With views of the
ancient tumili and earth pyramids erected by the pre-Inca population we ride on to a working farm
in the middle of this tranquil valley seldom visited by tourists. A chance of seeing the mighty
Andean Condor as well as other species such as hummingbirds and bright scarlet flycatchers.
Andalusian horses, fighting bulls and a dairy herd are among the farm inhabitants.
Tel: +593 9 9738 221 • E-mail: rideandes@rideandes.com
PO Box 17-7-9882 Quito Ecuador
Horse riding in South America
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PM: Guests can walk into the tiny village and
see examples of the hand embroidery that
has made the valley famous and also enjoy
exploring and observing the activities on the
working farm. Overnight at the Hacienda.
Fireplaces in most rooms. AB, PL, T, D.
DAY 4: THE SNOWS OF CAYAMBE & THE
EQUATOR LINE. A chance to get to know about the
Andalucian breed, the farm owners will chat
with you about their champion horses. We
then ride out into another section of the farm
along grass tracks, soon gaining height,
leaving the valley floor there are spectacular views: north down the Zuleta valley to three peaks on
the horizon, in Columbia and west across the array of patchwork fields every imaginable shade of
green to Imbabura peak. Here, condors are seen close up more and more frequently. Then leaving
the farm we ride up out of the valley through a large eucalyptus forest. A different experience to
the previous rides - cantering along the shady tracks between the rows of tall eucalyptus. We often
meet the locals with small herds of sheep, goats, pigs and cattle.
Emerging from the forest onto the plains, snow-capped Cayambe comes into
view. We ride onto the Pesillo plains and arriving in the Cayambe Valley
dominated by this Volcano, which straddles the Equator Line we leave the
horses at a typical village square complete with ornate gardens, church and
school. A short drive brings us to a beautiful old
hacienda for a delicious home cooked 3 course
lunch traditional dishes. The hacienda, as well
as the fine furniture is packed with
arrangements of fresh roses – 1000s of roses:
we also visit a nearby rose plantation (tiem
permitting). We then cross the Equator Line, and travel (3hrs),
bypassing Quito, and continue on by vehicle to a very ornate and
historically important 17th Century hacienda. Arriving by way of a
very impressive avenue of eucalyptus trees, the portico of the
magnificent hacienda where we spend the night leads us into a
building that holds a very special place in history: the scene of
several independence battles and used as a base by many early
explorers and scientists such as Condamine and von Humboldt
during their expeditions to the ‘new world’. Overnight at the
Hacienda (dinner a la carte). AB, PL, D.
DAY 5: COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK, the high plains & lake.
The day can start with an early morning shop - the hacienda has an excellent shop providing
another opportunity to purchase the lovely local crafts. A short drive to the main Cotopaxi national
park entrance where we meet the horses, on the way, guests visit the fascinating Agustin hacienda
built on an Inca site. Fine examples of Inca stonework – including complete walls, are on view.
Tel: +593 9 9738 221 • E-mail: rideandes@rideandes.com
PO Box 17-7-9882 Quito Ecuador
Horse riding in South America
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A spectacular ride awaits (6-7hrs), up into the National Park to
canter across the wide, barren plains at the base of the Cotopaxi
Volcano (the highest active volcano in the world). Several herds of
wild horses inhabit the park and to ride along side these longmaned
horses galloping freely across the rugged terrain is an
exhilarating experience. Part of this ride follows the main Inca
highway which linked Quito with Cusco, Peru. The ground is
covered with tiny pumice stones and lichen on this arid plain
created by lava and ash from the mighty Cotopaxi volcano. Passing
a shallow lake on the high plains we then ride across a very
surprising ‘luna landscape’ – huge boulders and hard baked ocrecoloured
mud and onto rolling grassy hills for some more fast
paced riding. We arrive at a ‘hosteria’ in an absolutely stunning
location – mid-point between four volcanoes - for an overnight stay.
AB, L, D.
DAY 6 –INCA RUINS & WILD HORSES A ride into another part of the Cotopaxi national park. We will ride
alongside the wild horses as we meet several herds on our way across the
plains and old lava flow. Cantering through pasturelands we arrive at an old
Inca fort that guarded the route down to the Amazon. A day riding in the
wild open expanses of the Andean highlands enjoying the open terrain, no
sign of habitation and spectacular views of the closeby Cotopaxi snowcapped
volcano.
After a picnic lunch, we ride out of the national park to an old Jesuit
Hacienda recently converted and now a very, very comfortable highland
hacienda. AB, PL,D.
DAY 7: HIGH ANDES MOUNTAIN PASS/VALLEY DESCENT* Guests ride out amid the vast Andean scenery, cross a river and head up
into the ‘paramo’ grasslands to enjoy this wilderness among the snowcapped
peaks (7-8hrs). In these remote Andean ‘paramo’ areas the local
‘chagras’ are the only people to venture– checking their herds of cattle on
their trusty horses. A local horseman will accompany our group, guiding us
through a sea of grass, along paths hugging the sides of the hills, across
streams of snowmelt passing native scrubland. Ride near herds of fighting
bulls. Guests really experience the remoteness of the magnificent high
Andes with wonderful views of the surrounding peaks: Cotopaxi,
Ruminahui. Sincholagua, Pasachoa...to name but a few.
Varied terrain and pace – crossing a rocky river bed then
pastures ideal for some canters we start climbing. Deer,
condor, Andean foxes have been spotted regularly on this
route, high altitude hummingbirds (Hillstars) are often
sighted zooming between the native wildflowers as well as
great swifts, hawks and other Andean species. Having
rounded Sincholagua from the south-west to north side
Tel: +593 9 9738 221 • E-mail: rideandes@rideandes.com
PO Box 17-7-9882 Quito Ecuador
Horse riding in South America
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guests descend into the valley, passing corrals where the locals group the cattle. Meeting the
cobbled roads, we say goodbye to the horses and are driven back into Quito (75
minutes).Overnight in a comfortable hotel in Quito. AB, PL.
*Weather conditions may mean a lower valley route is taken, with fast paced riding across huge
fields then descending along dirt and cobbled tracks.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE. 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. BB. End of services.
Cost of ride: US Dollars 2845 per person (4 riders or more)
Cost of ride: US Dollars 3840 per person (2-3 riders) –NOTE if less than 4 riders one month
prior to ride we offer to MAINTAIN the 4 or more rider price & provide an excellent alternative
itinerary that reduces our operating costs.
Single supplement for single room: USD495
2012
DATES set date departures (7 nights, 7 days riding):
7th-14th January, 14th-21st January 28th January-4th February, 18th-25th February, 25th February-
3rd March, 10th-17th March, 9th-16th June, 1st-8th July, 7th-14th July, 21st-28th July, 4th-11th August,
18th-25th August, 25th August-1st September, 8th-15th September, 6th-13th October, 24th
November-1st December, 1st-8th December, 23rd-30th December. REQUEST LATEST UPDATE ON RIDE AVAILABILTY.
Please request options for PRIVATE groups, private
departures possible almost all year. The above itinerary
can be adapted to suit each individual group.
OTHER OPTIONS: MORE ECONOMICAL RIDE: COTOPAXI
ADVENTURE, MORE CHALLENGING RIDE: COTOPAXI
ADVENTURE, SHORTER RIDES: ONE CENTRE BASED
RIDES. PLEASE REQUEST DETAILS.
ALL RIDES AVAILABLE AS PRIVATE RIDES.
Pre ride ‘de rust’ or work on your riding skills:
Riding instruction adapted to your wishes – a lovely, personable German dressage rider who has
ridden all her life is able to give guests of all levels one to one riding instruction at her indoor
school. Please ask for details.
SAMPLE OF EXTENSIONS AVAILABLE: as well as Quito hotels and city tours we can arrange –with no
extra booking fee- GALAPAGOS ISLAND CRUISES, AMAZON JUNGLE TRIPS, CLOUD FOREST STAYS,
CUENCA, SPAS/HOTSPRINGS, WHALE WATCHING, BIRD WATCHING, RIDING PERUVIAN PASOS,
HACIENDA STAYS, … please let us know your interests and request the extensions document. Tel: +593 9 9738 221 • E-mail: rideandes@rideandes.com
PO Box 17-7-9882 Quito Ecuador
Horse riding in South America
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NOTES We advise arriving the day before, we can meet you at the airport and also arrange hotels in Quito
for you.
Tour length: 8 days, 7 days riding. Riding ability on scheduled rides: Intermediate and above.
Meeting point is Quito, where the international airport is. We meet you at the airport and can
arrange hotels and city tours etc for you – take care of all your travel arrangements throughout
your stay.
With prior agreement, riders 85-95kg can be accepted, there may be a supplement to pay (normal
weight limit 85kg).
Following a confirmed booking detailed travel advice and equipment and clothing lists will be
available.
Key: AB= cooked breakfast,
L= lunch, PL= picnic lunch
(different menus, never just a
sandwich), T = tea, D=dinner.
The ‘cut off’ point is one month prior to the start date –i.e the itinerary (and/or cost) will be
determined depending on numbers booked one month prior to the tour start date. Any reduction in
cost that we may be abe to offer after one month prior to the tour start date will be returned to clients minus any bank fees/money transfer costs etc paid by Ride Andes both receiving or returning payments.
Paramo Places (Ride Andes) terms and conditions apply.
Guests are strongly advised to bring and use their own riding helmets.
A booking is confirmed only upon receipt of the corresponding deposit.
We reserve the right to alter the itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control.
Appropriate medical insurance is mandatory and the responsibility of each guest/booking agent.
It is the responsibility of the individual guest/booking agent to ensure that participants have the necessary riding skills to take part in the tour chosen.
Guests will be required to sign a responsibility release before starting a tour.
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