The haciendas (grand colonial farming estates) of Ecuador, many dating back to the 1600s, provide a real insight into the traditions and culture of this fascinating South American country. Not only do these haciendas provide comfortable accommodation (perfect after a long day's riding) but they allow guests to enjoy the fine period detail, a reflection of the Spanish Settlers who built many of them or the Inca walls that provided inspiration for their style. This ride brings a mix of adventurous and breathtaking riding along with the comforts of homely accommodation and the joys of experiencing the culture of another nation. During your trip you will also stay on a working farm, visit interesting local markets and see a rose plantation and weaving centre.

This region was made for riding and here you can take a true journey back in time. Ancient Inca highways and Spanish colonial routes run between beautifully preserved haciendas in two amazing, yet very distinct areas of the Andean highlands. The area offers vast plains and pastoral valleys, dramatically marked by both glacial and volcanic activity. Riders follow the 'Avenue of Volcanoes', circling the towering, snow-capped peaks of Cayambe and Cotopaxi (the highest active volcano in the world) and cantering through the maze of fields below.

The days are filled with rides varied in pace and scenery, stops being taken at local indigenous markets and craft villages where the customs and rhythm of life have changed very little in centuries. Not only will you see the exotic Andean fruits on display but you will meet the friendly locals who will be going about their daily tasks in their vibrant traditional dress.

After a day of spectacular riding, what could be better than resting your feet by the open fireplace of a traditional country house? The warm and welcoming owners of these haciendas open their doors to you, allowing you to relax in their atmospheric courtyards and beautiful gardens. Many of these buildings are unique and are the homes of the noblest Ecuadorian families, including past presidents, and one is the most important Inca site in Northern Ecuador.

Options can be provided for non riders accompanying the group and it is an excellent tour for families or private groups.

Itinerary:

Day 1, Arrival in Quito and introductory ride:

Guests are met at Quito airport/Quito hotel (we advise arriving the day before, you can be met at the airport and taken to an arranged hotel) by a bilingual guide and driven into the northern area of Ecuador.You will take a 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.

You will then take 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 you 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. You will 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 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 the group rides 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 is spent at the 18th century hacienda (Hacienda Pinsaqui), fireplaces in most rooms.

Day 2, Sacred Imbabura and San Pablo lake:

You leave this historic hacienda - once a very important weaving centre, on horseback and ride on to another colonial hacienda built in 1602 (5 hours). You will ride past tiny hamlets of adobe huts, through woodlands, cross rocky gorges and wind your 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 you 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, you 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. Or take an optional visit where you will 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 process. Overnight at this early 17th Century (1602) hacienda (Hacienda Cusin) adorned with local crafts and antiques. Fireplaces in most rooms.

Day 3, Pastoral Zuleta Valley:

A stunning ride into the beautiful pastoral Zuleta Valley (6hrs). Along country lanes then through eucalyptus forests, you 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 you pass dewponds and hedges of aloe vera and spikey agave (sisal) atop mud walls. Following sandy tracks, you 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, you 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.

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 Hacienda La Merced. Fireplaces in most rooms.

Day 4, The snows of Cayambe and the Equator line:

A chance to get to know about the Andalucian breed, the farm owners will chat with you about their champion horses. You will 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, condorsare seen close up more and more frequently. Then, leaving the farm, you will ride up out of the valley through a large eucalyptus forest. A different experience to previous rides - cantering along the shady tracks between the rows of tall eucalyptus. You may meet the locals with small herds of sheep, goats, pigs and cattle.

Emerging from the forest onto the plains, snow-capped Cayamble comes into view. You will ride onto the Pestilo plaints and arrive in the Cayambe Valley dominated by this Volcano, which straddles the Equator Line. You will leave your horse at a typical village square complete with orate gardens, church and a school. A short drive will bring you to a beautiful old hacienda for a delicious home cooked 3 course lunch of traditional dishes. The hacienda, as well as the fine furniture is packed with arrangements of fresh roses - 1000s of roses: you will also visit a nearby rose plantation. 

You will then cross the Equator Line and travel (3 hours), 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 you will spend the night leads you into a building that holds a very special place in history. It was 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 Hacienda La Merced Yurag. 

Day 5, Cotopaxi National Park, the high plains and lakes: 

Today can start with an early morning shop - the hacienda has an excellent shop providing another opportunity to purchase the lovely local crafts. You will be driven a short distance to the main Cotopaxi national park entrance where you will meet the horses. On the way you will visit then fascinating Agustin hacienda built on an Inca site. Fine examples of Inca stonework - including complete walls, are on view. 

A spectacular ride awaits (6-7 hours), up into the National Park, where you will 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 long-maned 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 ask from the mighty Cotopaxi volcano. Passing a shallow lake on the high plains you will ride across a very surprising "luna landscape" - huge boulders and hard baked ochre-coloured mud and onto rolling grassy hills for some more fast paced riding. You will arrive at a "hosteria" in an absolutely stunning location - mid-point between four volcanoes - for an overnight stay. 

Day 6, Inca ruins and wild horses:

A ride into another part of the Cotopaxi national park. You will ride alongside the wild horses as you meet several herds on your way across the plains and old lava flow. Cantering through pasturelands you will 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 close by Cotopaxi snow-capped volcano. 

After a picnic lunch, you will ride out of the national park to an old Jesuit Hacienda recently converted and now a very comfortable highland hacienda. Overnight hacienda Santa Ana. 

Day 7, High Andes mountain pass:

Guests ride out of the beautiful hosteria and head up over a mountain pass to enjoy the stunning high Andean scenery in this wilderness (6-7hrs). 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 your group, guiding you through a sea of grass, along mountain tracks, across streams of snowmelt passing native scrubland. 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 – after some canters across the open, grassy plains you start climbing. Deer, condor, Andean foxes have been spotted on this route, high altitude hummingbirds (hillstars) are often sighted zooming between the native wildflowers as well as swifts and other Andeam species. Once over the high pass and across the scree slopes guests descend into the valley. You say goodbye to the horses andare driven back into Quito (90 minutes). Ovenight in a very comfortable hotel in Quito.

Weather conditions may mean a lower valley route is taken, with fast paced riding across huge fields before descending along dirt and cobbled tracks. The route can also be altered if anyone is worried but guests have always been acclimatized by day 7 of a ride and we have not had any problems.

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.

A challenging route across incredibly varied terrain, including fast paced riding across the arid plains alongside the wild horses of Cotopaxi national park. Suitable for fit, experienced riders. No camping necessary, overnights include charming ‘haciendas’ in out-of-the-way locations.

The ride starts among the patchwork fields in the very picturesque verdant valleys of the Andes, just across the equator line north of Quito and ends on the vast plains below the snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano. Meeting the horses close to the glacier-topped Cayambe Volcano, guests ride along agave lined grassy tracks into a sleepy pastoral valley, arriving at a working hacienda with magnificent Andalucian horses. The magnificent Andean Condor is frequently sighted soaring overhead.

The second day takes guests riding out of the farm, exclusive to your host, for a long ride through the Zuleta Valley, past pre-Inca pyramids and into San Pablo Valley, enjoying views of the lake and surrounding jagged peaks. On day three, guests ride out southwards, then go to the Antisana/Cotopaxi area to ride in a totally distinct area. After a night at a beautiful converted Jesuit hacienda guests enjoy two days riding through the Antisana foothills - prime condor country - then ride to the Cotopaxi National park & surrounding area.

Days four to ten take riders on a complete circuit around the perfectly conical, snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano, midst the breath taking, wild highlands including seldom-visited open plains high in the Andes. A chance of seeing a lot of the Andean wildlife (the mighty Andean condor, eagles & owls, high altitude hummingbirds, foxes and deer) AND meeting up with the many herds of wild horses that roam the area as you cross a variety of terrain including rugged passes, barren, luna-like landscapes and rolling, grassy hills. The pace is varied, including plenty of chances for long canters across the wilderness mixed with a steadier pace over more challenging surfaces. Where there is a break in the sea of high Andean grasslands, the ground is carpeted with wild flowers and you pass through primary woodland with native trees and shrubs. You cross old lava flows dotted with rocks catapulted out from the erupting volcano, where only lichens grow and traverse rivers fed by snowmelt. As well as being surrounded by Andean peaks, the glacial retreat -followed by the volcanic activity, have helped sculpt the area producing intriguing landscapes. On some days you ride along old Inca routes, on others you pass by adobe cottages and patchwork fields farmed by the charming and very friendly local people. The children are often out and about herding errant pigs and donkeys.

Nights are spent in a wonderful mixture of historic haciendas, working farms, inns & remote farmhouses, built of a variety of materials: from adobe with thatched roofs to original Inca stone. Guests dine on delicious, home-cooked three-course dinners of local fare including exotic fruits & vegetables, preceded by hearty breakfasts and very varied picnic lunches.

Itinerary:

Day 1:  Guests are met at their hotels and driven out of Quito northwards through the Andes, across the equator line to meet the horses (90mins) in the shadow of the Cayambe Volcano. Once everyone is comfortable, you ride out of the Cayambe Valley and down into the pastoral Zuleta Valley (4hrs). Along grassy lanes and then across pastureland, riders enjoy the picture postcard scenery around every corner. Stopping for a wonderful picnic along the way, you ride into a Hacienda having enjoyed some canters across the grasslands, passing their magnificent Andalucian stallions posing for you in their fields. Your hosts - the hacienda owners, are delightful people, making this a very special introduction to Ecuadorian life. A delicious home cooked dinner and overnight at the farm, fireplaces in most rooms. Just six rooms here, all with private bathrooms.

Day 2: A long circuit ride out of the magnificent Zuleta valley and into the San Pablo valley beyond, with superb views of San Pablo lake and surrounding jagged peaks (6hrs). A chance of some long canters on the tracks as well as the perfect opportunity to see local life as you pass small adobe huts, the very friendly locals still dress in their vibrant coloured traditional clothing. You encounter herders out with flocks of sheep, goats, pigs in the open grasslands and a host of mismatched dogs supposedly keeping the animals in order! A picnic on the ride and another delicious home cooked dinner back at the farm. Second overnight at the working farm, private bathrooms.

Day 3: You ride out southwards, through Eucalyptus forests, spotting a great variety of birds including the largest hummingbird in the world (at certain times of the year). Before you ride into a small village (always causing quite a stir!) you enjoy a picnic admiring views of Imbabura, the impressive Cayambe and other surrounding peaks (4-5hrs). The village square is typically colonial Spanish with ornate gardens at the centre and here guests leave the horses and are driven south, bypassing Quito (2hrs). A chance to stop on the equator line. Dinner and overnight at an old, restored Jesuit hacienda complete with fine Ecuadorian art and antiques, verandas and ornate gardens.

Day 4: Guests meet the horses in the nearby Antisana foothills to ride into the ‘paramo’ (high Andean vegetation) and a complete change of scenery. The ride on cobbled roads, soon leaving the cultivated fields behind and climbing into the rough grasslands (6hrs). Superb views across the ridges and valleys to Quito and many snow-capped peaks part of the ‘Avenue of the Volcanoes’ and you also pass a fascinating old lava flow. After your picnic lunch (never just a sandwich, but much more!) the terrain flattens and the pace picks up, allowing guests some long canters through the ‘paramo’. The ‘hosteria’ nestled in the valley below is a wonderful sight, and you ride to cosy rooms in a perfect location to enjoy the tranquil Andes. Your hostess is another wonderful cook and prepares traditional food for dinner. Overnight in 3-4 bedroom ‘cabañas’ with a mix of shared and private bathrooms.

Day 5: The Andean condor with its massive wing span is seen most days cruising over the ‘Hosteria’, so you hope that today is no exception. A long ride (7-8hrs) takes us out of the hills and onto the plains, to a traditionally built adobe farmhouse. Guests ride out across the ‘hosteria’ lands, leaving Antisana Volcano behind, traversing rolling hills as you cross the slopes of Sincholagua, an extinct volcano. The morning ride involves some challenging parts across scree, rocky outcrops and wetlands. The views are impressive and you have seen foxes and deer in this area as well as many species of raptors patrolling the skies. A warm cinnamon local drink awaits and tasty ‘empanadas’ beside the fireplace. Overnight in small twin bedded rooms separated by partitions, shared women only and men only bathrooms (option: room with private en suite bathroom).

Day 6: A steep ascent out from the thatched hacienda this morning, guests ride up close to the impressive rock face of the Rumiñahui peak (5hrs). First, you have to negotiate the fields of fighting bulls- this ranch is famous for its feisty fighting bulls, caution is needed! Your ‘chagra’ (Andean horseman) in his traditional poncho, armed with lasso, guides you safely through. The stunning Cotopaxi Volcano soon comes into view in all its perfectly conical, snowy glory. Approaching the volcano you stop for a picnic in the unique Andean scrubland, with stunning views of the volcano. Descending into a valley scraped out during the ice age, you ride into Cotopaxi national park, dropping down to a shallow lake then enjoying long canters across luna-like landscapes. The ‘hosteria’ is in an idyllic location with amazing views of Cotopaxi. Overnight in small dormitory rooms; women only and men only bathrooms (option: room with private en suite bathroom).

Day 7: Continuing on the route that will take guests on a complete circuit around Cotopaxi, guests enjoy fast paced riding across the plains just below the Cotopaxi snowline then descend into the Lasso Valley (7hrs). The locals, the crops, their small farms and houses are very different from the northern areas, giving guests a view of a different region of the Ecuadorian Andes. Canters along sandy tracks to the hamlet of San Ramon, where you leave the horses and are driven a short distance to a converted farmhouse. Rooms with fireplaces and en suite bathrooms for everyone.

Day 8: Guests rejoin the horses early for a long ride into the remote eastern side of the Cotopaxi to a hacienda built of Inca stone close to Quilindaña mountain (8hrs). There is no vehicle access to the hacienda via the route you take. Riding close to Cotopaxi volcano in this remote area, guests enjoy the vast open expanses of the ‘paramo’. Usually the weather allows magnificent views of Chimborazo (Ecuador’s highest peak), Tungurahua, currently in eruption and other peaks forming the Avenue of Volcanoes. This hacienda outpost is a firm favourite of guests – the hot showers, delicious food, roaring fires and very comfortable beds making up for the lack of electricity.

Day 9: Waking up to stunning views of Cotopaxi, Antisana and Quilindaña, a hearty breakfast awaits in the hacienda built of Inca stone. Another full day of riding starts with a ride through an expansive ‘rock field’ – a result of the last eruption of Cotopaxi Volcano (8hrs). Having crossed a river, the rocks give way to grasslands, allowing fast paced riding through another herd of fighting bulls! Turning westwards, you follow a river valley then criss-cross the grasslands through a series of lakes. Ducks dive for food here on the lakes and high altitude hummingbirds zoom by. Crossing old lava flows and passing a series of strange hills -created by the ice flows and by the later volcanic activity- you ride into the rolling hills to enjoy exhilarating fast paced riding. The thatched mountain inn affords splendid views and is an incredible location to spend the last night out in the Andes. Wood stoves in/near rooms. One bathroom per two rooms (option: private en suite bathroom).

Day 10: A ride back into the real world! Sadly you have to ride out of the mountains…(6hrs). Crossing a river into another large ranch where you have exclusive riding rights, guests take to the beautifully smooth pastures for a last opportunity of some fast paced riding. You then gently descend into the valley below via a wonderful meandering track lined with native trees and flowers. Joining a cobbled road you ride to a tiny village and say goodbye to the horses at a small chapel. Guests are driven back to a charming hotel in Quito for overnight. Dinner is not included.

Day 11: Breakfast and then guests are escorted to the airport or continue on with other activities. Your host would be delighted to pre-arrange activities for you, there is a huge variety of options in this small but very diverse country. Colonial Quito city tours, market visits and longer ‘extensions’ such as a Galapagos Island cruise, an Amazon lodge stay, cloud forest trip & much more -please ask for details!

IMPORTANT NOTES:

- Tour is very dependent on weather conditions so flexibility is required. The exact route and accommodation may not be finalised until just before the ride, in order ensure guests' maximum enjoyment.

- A few days of acclimatisation is strongly advised prior to the ride. A variety of activities pre-ride can be arranged for you to enjoy the diverse Ecuadorean Andes.

- Cotopaxi is currently dormant, closely monitored and showing no signs of activity.

- Altitude: most of the ride takes place above 3000m and you ride at around and above 4000m (up to 4250m), sleeping at altitudes lower than 4000m. It is very unusual that guests encounter altitude problems but they should check with their doctor prior to booking the trip.

- "Fast paced" on this ride means a maximum of an extended canter and very short stretches of galloping, absolutely no racing and no "flat out" galloping can be permitted as at this altitude, it could lead to severe discomfort of the horse and heart attack!

This is a challenging and adventurous ride over a series of different terrains through some spectacular areas. It is a complete circuit of the world's highest active volcano, Cotopaxi, through the heart of 'condor country'. The riding takes you through the stunning Andean highlands, riding across arid plains, rolling hills, lava flows and wetlands. The hours in the saddle are long but memorable for all the right reasons.

The snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano is a breathtaking sight and the wild highlands of Cotopaxi National Park provide a fabulous riding setting. The plains high up here are great for an exhilarating gallop and there is the chance to see a lot of Andean wildlife such as the might Andean condor, eagles, owls, hummingbirds, foxes and deer. There is such variation to the landscapes that riders experience rugged passes, barren, moon-like plains and grassy hills.

The pace differs depending on the terrain - challenging surfaces are faced with a steady approach whereas the open wilderness allows for the perfect long canter. Where there is a break in the sea of high Andean grasslands, the ground is carpeted with wild flowers and there are primary woodlands featuring native trees and shrubs. Groups here cross old lava flows dotted with rocks catapulted out from the erupting volcano, a spot where only lichens grow and where there are rivers created from the melting snow. Intriguing landscapes are created by the beautiful peaks and glaciers here.

During some days you will ride along old Inca routes whereas on others you will pass adobe cottages and pretty patchwork fields, farmed by the charming and friendly local people. The children are often out with pigs and donkeys.

Nights are spent in a mixture of historic haciendas, inns and isolated farmhouses, built from a variety materials such as adobe and Inca stone. There is even a lodge built from straw bales covered with adobe.

The ride is planned as a complete circuit of the volcano but sometimes the weather brings about a need for flexibility. The actual route and accommodation is sometimes not finalised until just before the ride so please bear this in mind.

Itinerary:

Day 1:

You will be met at your hotel and driven out of Quito to meet the horses (1 hour drive). This first day offers stunning Andean scenery and a first taste of the distinct Andean "paramo" vegetation. Once you are comfortable with you horse, you will set out, accompanied by a local "chagra" (horseman). The views are spectacular; looking out across the green valleys to the jagged rocky summits and snow capped peaks beyond as you traverse the Antisana foothills, Quito in the distance. 

There is a good chance of seeing an Andean condor, this very much depends on flying conditions! You will ride to an old hacienda, still a working farm seeped in history and enjoy tea with your gracious hostess in the sun room or in front of a log fire. Guests can explore the farm - walking to the dairy to watch the milking and also learn about life in Ecuador and Ecuador's history from your English speaking hostess. A traditional home-cooked dinner and overnight at this hacienda with an interior covered patio, gardens and working farm. Twin/double rooms with private en suite bathrooms. 

Day 2:

After a short drive you will rejoin your horse. This mornings ride follows tracks and cobbled roads through deep gorges  then up the valley to a very large hacienda. Taking to huge grassy fields you can 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). 

Sincholagua, a rocky summit that dominates the skyline, clearly marks the continental divide - the precipitation that falls in 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 the fighting bulls (the hacienda is famous for its feisty Spanish bulls!), you will 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. Partitioned twin rooms with shared bathrooms (single rooms available and rooms with private bathroom). 

Day 3:

Today you climb up through 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. 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. You often meet some of the wild horses that roam the national park, 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, you will reach 4000 m then descend back to the traditionally built hacienda for a second overnight. Guests can enjoy a hot drink in front of one of the open log fires, or head off for a walk and closer look at the hacienda's llamas and alpacas. 

Day 4:

Today you ride south through the ‘Avenue of Volcanoes’. The views are magnificent, with the rocky Ruminahui peak, Corazon Volcano, the twin Iliniza peaks sprinkled with snow and a host of other summits lining the central valley (6hrs). Your destination, on the Lasso plains, is a ‘puesto’ – a stop over point, where Humboldt, an early explorer spent some time. The wide sandy tracks and grassy paths are ideal for some more fast-pace riding as you ride the length of a valley scraped out by glaciers at the end of the Ice Age. In places you ride over layers of pumice stone – deposited by the volcanoes, and during the ride the horses expertly negotiate two steep gorges.

You 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. You leave the horses in good 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.

Day 5:

You 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) you cross the beautiful paramo grasslands, without a house in sight. After another delicious picnic in the breathtaking scenery, you 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. 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. You occasionally meet a lone ‘chagra’ (Andean cowhand) with his trusty dog riding out to check the cattle. As you round a hill and cross some native scrubland you often sight Antisana Volcano complete with the massive glacier. The house you 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.

Day 6:

Today you turn west and ride back into Cotopaxi National Park, through the northern foothills of the Volcano. Leaving the ‘tambo’ (Inca overnight stopover point) you have a long ride ahead (7-8 hrs) firstly following a wide river floodplain. You 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 you follow a lava flow with strange conical hills ‘popping out’ at intervals – these mounds are 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. You ride onto some wonderful grassy plains allowing for some long canters – often joined by the wild horses that roam the area, until you arrive at your 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, a very different structure that very successfully keeps the cold Andean temperatures outside. The hosteria is a new building and very thoughtfully decorated. Again, the location is unbelievable, surrounded by Andean peaks and enjoying a stunning view of the mighty Cotopaxi Volcano. Twin/double rooms with shared bathrooms (option to pay supplement for room with private bathroom).

Day 7:

You ride out for a final day in the wild Andes (6 hrs). After some fast paced riding, you climb up along grassy trails then along rocky paths over outcrops close to the summit of Sincholagua. As you cross the expanses of grassland and admire the seemingly endless views -not a fence or even a hut for miles around, you 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. You pass through some native Andean woodlands and also enjoy the sight of tiny Andean wildflowers – Indians’ paintbrush, gentians, deer’s head, lupins, all seemingly too fragile to survive in the highlands. This is another good spot to see the Andean condor and also deer.

The ‘chagras’ (local horsemen, dressed in brightly coloured ponchos) that guide us across this haunting landscape spend their lives here and carefully lead you between the muddy wetlands and across the steep slopes. The skyline is dominated by the magnificent Andean peaks and -as well as the condor- eagles, falcons, hawks and caracara are often seen soaring or hovering overhead while hunting for food. Descending Sincholagua, you meet a track that takes us back down to civilization. Saying farewell to your local guides (chagras) and trusty steeds guests are driven back to Quito for overnight. Twin/double rooms with private bathroom.

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.

This tough but exciting tour is an authentic roundup which is part of the local farming calendar. Its location is in a remote part of the Andes, bordering the Cotopaxi National Park.

The 'Elrodeo' is the most important event that takes place in the vast cattle ‘haciendas’ of the Ecuadorian Andes. Its tradition dates back centuries – since the first Spanish settlers introduced cattle to the grassy plains and rolling hills of the Andes. It involves the ‘chagras’ (Andean cowhands), riding their horses up into the mountains to round up the fighting bulls (a very aggressive breed of cattle) and herd them down into the corrals. It is an incredibly exciting riding experience for competent riders only, with plenty of adrenaline fuelled moments whilst riding across steep and rough terrain, surrounded by the most stunning scenery imaginable.

It also provides an incredible insight into the local culture and traditions as the chagras show their horsemanship and lasso skills. It is an amazing experience to see the camaraderie among the chagras working together in close proximity to these very feisty fighting bulls. The stunning, unique location of this hacienda also provides guests with the chance of seeing the wild horses that roam the area and the ‘Paramo’ (high Andean habitat) wildlife, including the unforgettable sight of the magnificent Andean condor soaring overhead.

The excitement of the roundup begins with the chagras arriving at the hacienda from neighbouring farms, when they start to prepare the corrals. This is where the bulls will be branded and sorted. Then the chagras head into the rolling hills with the guests, the Andean peaks provide an indescribable backdrop for this absolutely unique experience.

Non-riders are welcome to join this trip, there is always plenty to see and several photography opportunities at the hacienda and around the corrals. It is vital that participants arrive at least two days prior to the start date of the roundup in order to acclimatise. They can offer a range of interesting activities during the lead up to the ride.

Planned Itinerary (weather and other aspects can force a change in the itinerary/order of events):

Day 1:

The morning starts by driving to the Hacienda from Quito, which is high up in the Andes. You will receive lunch on arrival and the afternoon is free to settle in. After dinner, guests will get to hear about the ‘Rodeo’ (so called as once the cattle are in the corral they circle, always in the same direction – ‘rodear’: to go round). Overnight at the hacienda. Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 2:

The rodeo begins! Riders will head to the 'El Ami' area, in the foothills of the Quilindaña peak where guests will have their first encounter with the fighting bulls. The task will be to surround the bulls and herd them to the corrals, letting as few as possible escape back into the hills. This normally takes all morning. After lunch at the hacienda, the rest of the afternoon will be dedicated to working in the corrals, branding and selecting. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 3:

Early in the morning riders will mount up and assemble before going to the corrals, where 'la bomba' is formed (the long line of riders) to receive instructions from the hacienda owner and mayodomo (hacienda manager). After taking a ritual drink out of a horn, the chagras will receive details of who is to ride where and everyone will head to 'El Ami grande' where the older and fiercest animals of the hacienda graze, these also have to be herded into the corrals. The afternoon offers superb photographic opportunities as the chagras work in the corrals. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 4:

From the hacienda, riders will head to a different area: ‘San Agustin’ for the day’s work. After forming ‘la bomba’ and receiving the corresponding instructions, chagras, guides and guests ride to an area of Quilindaña mountain where numerous herds of fighting bulls and wild horses graze. This will be the first time that the chagras try to take these animals to the corral. If successful, the animals will be branded and the horses manes cut. If there is time in the afternoon, riders will head back to San Agustin in search of bulls that escaped in the morning. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 5:

An early start to the day. Riders will be searching for the fighting bulls in the same area that some had slipped the net. In the afternoon, these animals are often very unwillingly brought in on two lassos, they will be branded and sorted. In the afternoon the chagras will be in another area: ‘Contadero’ again looking in the rough terrain – complete with gullies and bogs, for the bulls and wild horses that might be in this area. From this location on a clear day riders will have an astonishing view of the Cotopaxi. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 6:

Today the work will be centred in the corrals, where the hacienda owners choose the animals they wish to be sold. In the morning, if the chagras head out into ‘paramo’ grasslands again, guests can join them looking for the bulls that were not brought down off the hills the day before. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included.

Day 7:

The work needs to be finished in the corrals. You also have an option to go out for a final ride surrounded by magnificent peaks in the heart of the Andes. After lunch you will be driven back to Quito. Overnight is in small hotel with charm and private bathrooms. Breakfast and Lunch included.

Day 8:

You will be taken to the airport in time for your departure flights or you can continue on extensions such as a visit to Otavalo market, the cloud forest, the Amazon or the Galapagos Islands. Breakfast included.

Additional activities:

In this incredibly diverse country, a wide range of trips to complement the ride are on offer: Galapagos Islands, Amazon rain forest, Cuenca, hot springs/spa, cloud forest…

Options for non riders accompanying the group are available and this is an excellent tour for private groups and families (adapted for younger children).

NOTES:

- Prices subject to change without notice

- Riding times given are approximate.

- Appropriate medical insurance is mandatory and the responsibility of each guest.

- Acclimatisation: ESSENTIAL, minimum two days in Quito.

- Please remember this is a tough tour and the animals (cattle and wild horses) are treated firmly, this is not a tour for the faint hearted but for hard working, adventurous people looking for an exciting challenge!