|
|
|
|
|
Cotopaxi Getaway
Haciendas
Ecuador
From the trail head between two extinct volcanoes, we will ride to Cotopaxi National Park. There are excellent opportunities for seeing Andean condors as you traverse fascinating landscapes forged by glacial and volcanic activity.
|
|
|
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals with water, National Park Entrance Fee & 3 riding days with English speaking guide
Riding helmets upon prior request (but we do recommend that you bring your own), wool ponchos, saddlebags and half chaps available on request.
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
|
2024
|
Transfers from/to Quito Airport included
|
$0
|
|
2024
|
Extra night in Quito - please inquire
|
$0
|
|
2024
|
Non-rider - please inquire
|
$0
|
|
2024
|
Weight supplement (over 85 kg, 95 kg max)
|
$150
|
|
2024
|
Single supplement - please inquire
|
$0
|
Pick-up and drop-off for this trip is from the Quito airport.
It is advised to arrive at least 1 day before the trip starts. This will give you some time to acclimatize to the altitude and time change, before the ride.
This trip is available any time on demand. Longer tour also possible - please inquire
|
Rates do not include:
Transfers, Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, Gratuities & Medical insurance (mandatory)
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.
Airport:
Quito
Pick-up and drop-off for this trip is from the Quito airport.
It is advised to arrive at least 1 day before the trip starts. This will give you some time to acclimatize to the altitude and time change, before the ride.
|
Tack:
|
|
McClellan western style saddles with sheepskin seats
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Local criollo crossed with Andalusian, Arab, Thoroghbread, Peruvian Pasos.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Riding lessons available for beginners
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(1
to
5
out of 5) All Riding Levels
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
15
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185-210 lbs / 85-95 kg
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
1 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
|
|
|
Riding helmets are mandatory for this ride.
|
Rider Responsibility
It is understood that guests booking this trip, are in a suitable condition to participate, not riding against any physician's advice and that guests know of no reason why they should not be participating in such a tour. Guests will be required to sign a waiver of liability at the start of the tour.
Guests are strongly advised to bring and use their own helmet.
Pace
The pace is very varied due to the great variety of terrain. Each day there are opportunities for fast-paced riding and on the last few days of the scheduled departure itineraries, there is ample opportunity for long canters, depending on the guests' wishes. The rides in Ecuador - due to the altitude - are not suitable for guests wanting to ´gallop flat out´ for most of the day.
All rides of more than 2 hours include regular breaks and all-day rides normally include a lunch break of approximately one hour.
Horses
During this trip, riders usually stay with one to two horses (as long as the rider is happy!). Our intention is that riders can actually build a bond with their horse and enjoy not only the landscape and ride but also the company of their horse – but some riders like the idea of trying as many horses as possible – let us know. As always one or more spare horses will accompany us in case a change is needed. The horses we use are the local Ecuadorian Andean Criollo breed crossed with numerous other breeds (English, Spanish, Peruvian, Arab…) producing a steed ideally suited to the terrain and with a wonderful temperament. Criollo breeds have developed from horses that were first brought from Spain in the 17th century, developing very different characteristics in each region, depending on terrain and the needs of the local horsemen.
They are specially selected, well trained and good natured. Our horse are usually between 14.2 and 15.2hh. Riders normally change to fresh horses at least once during the trip.
It is incredibly important that you provide us accurate riding ability details – we try to put a lot of work into selecting suitable horses for each rider.
Tack
We use McClellen saddles, a western’ type saddle with low rounded pommel (no horn) and a thick sheep skin atop. It is easy to ride ‘english style’ on these saddles, as well as western. Each saddle has saddlebags & a poncho. ‘English style’ (two hand direct reining) & neck reining (western ‘one-hand’ indirect rein riding) are both used. People adapt very quickly but the guide and ‘chagras’ are on hand to give some advice. This tack is very suitable for long days in the saddle.
Guides
Guests are always accompanied by a guide (bilingual: English/Spanish) who has many years’ experience of riding. In addition, at least one ‘groom’ is present –usually a skilled local horseman. Both guides and grooms have excellent local knowledge and are good riders. There is also additional ground staff. Professional guides speaking other languages are available on prior request.
In case of accident, our guides carry a mobile phone so that they can contact assistance (local emergency services/back up vehicle/our Doctor in Quito) – the mobile phone coverage is generally excellent.
Weight restriction
Due to the altitude & difficult terrain a weight supplement applies to provide riders of 85-100kg (185-220lbs) and over with two horses. Agreement prior to booking is necessary.
Altitude
We strongly advise a few days acclimatization prior to the ride. We recommend at least 24 hours in Quito/at same altitude as Quito prior to day 1 of the tour as the riding portion of the trip starts at 2800 meters high (same altitude as Quito).
Guests rarely experience any problems, but please note that we ride above 3000 meters and sometimes even above 4000 meters. Guests must seek medical advice if they have any doubt as to whether they are able to be at these altitudes.
Insurance
Guests are responsible for having an adequate, valid insurance policy including cover for all the sporting activities that they are likely to participate in. This is mandatory.
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
Quito area
|
Month
|
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
66
|
66
|
66
|
66
|
66
|
67
|
67
|
68
|
68
|
67
|
67
|
66
|
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
49
|
49
|
49
|
49
|
49
|
48
|
47
|
48
|
47
|
48
|
48
|
48
|
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
19
|
19
|
19
|
19
|
19
|
19
|
19
|
20
|
20
|
20
|
19
|
19
|
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
9
|
10
|
9
|
10
|
9
|
9
|
8
|
9
|
9
|
9
|
9
|
9
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
The climate in the Ecuadorian highlands allows us to offer rides all year round. However, you should keep in mind that weather can change quickly. Most days, we ride valley to valley and each valley/plain with its own microclimate.
During the day the temperatures can rise to 28C (82F), although most days start with a crisp morning of 8 to 10C (46 to 50F). The night time temperature can be as low as 4C (39F). These day to night temperature changes are most marked from June to November. From December to May the days remain cooler and the nights warmer. Even in the rainy season (November to April in most areas) the rain does not fall daily and is hardly ever for a prolonged span of time. Afternoon showers may occur by when the day's ride is usually over.
Special note – Altitude sickness
Please note that during riding tours we will be at over 2,600 meters / 8,500 feet above sea level and on certain tours over 4,000 m / 13,000 feet. The rides are designed to allow guests to gradually acclimatize but guests may feel some effects of altitude during the first few days (possible headaches and occasionally slight dizziness). It is vital that you follow the guides advice, let your guide know if you are feeling unwell, that you take things easy and do not over-exert yourself. Alcohol intake should be reduced and guests should be sure to drink plenty of bottled water. Aspirin can be taken to help - as long as you are not allergic.
A medical kit both for horse & rider is carried on all outings however short. Most saddles have saddlebags for a few personal belongings. Pack animals are used and/or support vehicles to carry most of the equipment. Suitcases are fine, it is much better if they are ‘soft’ bags rather than hard suitcases and we ask gusts to keep luggage to a minimum – 1 reasonable sized bag (25kg/ 55lbs max)
All the hotels have telephones and on certain rides mobile telephones and/or radios are carried.
Guests are kindly requested on all rides to take a minimum of personal belongings with them. Pack animals or a vehicle bring on guests belongings to the Haciendas. Luggage storage can be organised in Quito during the ride.
All bed linen and towels will be provided on the tours.
Equipment provided by Ride Andes (where applicable):
- Wool ponchos
- Chaps/ Half Chaps (a few pairs are available on prior request).
Please bring enough film and batteries especially film/cartridges/memory cards for more modern equipment. (We advise 400ASA for 35mm cameras.) The backup vehicle can carry video cameras for guests but the vehicle will not be with the riders all the time. At altitude batteries tend to run down more quickly.
VALUABLES
Although Ecuador has one of the best records in Latin America for safety we advise:
-please take the minimum valuables and avoid wearing expensive watches/jewellery in public.
-please use the hotel/hacienda safety deposit box.
-please use money belts and do not leave valuables 'on show' or in back/outside pockets.
-while riding, valuables can be handed in to the guide for safe storage.
-in Quito, taxis should always be taken at night.
Ride Andes cannot accept any responsibility for loss/theft during your stay in Ecuador.
| This list is only a guideline for you |
|
|
| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
|
|
| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding chaps-full or half length |
| Stretch trousers/jodhpurs. We advise you against wearing denim jeans or baggy trousers. (Lightweight jodhpurs may be too thin.) Thin 'longjohns'/stockings/stretch lycra-style cycling shorts are useful under trousers/jodhpurs. |
| Change of trousers |
| Strong boots (boots/riding boots with rubber soles - you may have to walk on rough terrain) |
| Riding helmet (mandatory) |
| Woollen scarf |
| Riding gloves |
| Wide brimmed hat ('Stetson' style, available in Quito) |
| Long sleeved cotton shirts |
| Fleece jacket |
| Warm, waterproof jacket (for camping tours: suitable for cold evening temperatures) |
|
|
| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Evening wear (trousers, shirt and sweater for the hotels) |
| Runners or canvas shoes (for evenings & market visits - comfortable, low/no heels) |
| |
| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect repellent |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Camera and enough extra films and batteries |
| Daypack |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| High protection sunscreen and lip balm |
| Flashlight |
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.
** No trip reports found
with the tour ID you provided.
|
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a stationary ride, so all nights will be spent at the same location.
Description
The perfect point from which to explore the national park. The Hacienda is very comfortable and situated in tranquil highland scenery on the edge of Cotopaxi National Park, with stunning views of Cotopaxi Volcano. Room options range from private to small dormitories, both with en suite bathrooms.
The spacious room come with large windows overlooking the mountains, free Wi-Fi access and a stove to keep you warm on chilly nights.
Room Occupancy
If you are willing to share but we are unable to find a roommate for you, a single supplement fee usually applies.
Meals
All meals are included from lunch on Day 1 to lunch on the last day.
The meals at the Hacienda are all delicious home-cooked meals prepared with local ingredients, for example trout. There is a hearty breakfast, varied picnic lunches (not just a sandwich) and a 3 course dinner. Snacks and bottled water are provided each day, and guests can purchase soft drinks & alcohol each evening.
Dietary Restrictions
We can easily cater for vegetarians or any other dietary requirements as long as we are warned in advance.
This trip
can accommodate special dietary requests.
|
Tack:
|
|
McClellan western style saddles with sheepskin seats
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Local criollo crossed with Andalusian, Arab, Thoroghbread, Peruvian Pasos.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Riding lessons available for beginners
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(1
to
5
out of 5) All Riding Levels
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
15
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
185-210 lbs / 85-95 kg
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
1 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
Rider Responsibility
It is understood that guests booking this trip, are in a suitable condition to participate, not riding against any physician's advice and that guests know of no reason why they should not be participating in such a tour. Guests will be required to sign a waiver of liability at the start of the tour.
Guests are strongly advised to bring and use their own helmet.
Pace
The pace is very varied due to the great variety of terrain. Each day there are opportunities for fast-paced riding and on the last few days of the scheduled departure itineraries, there is ample opportunity for long canters, depending on the guests' wishes. The rides in Ecuador - due to the altitude - are not suitable for guests wanting to ´gallop flat out´ for most of the day.
All rides of more than 2 hours include regular breaks and all-day rides normally include a lunch break of approximately one hour.
Horses
During this trip, riders usually stay with one to two horses (as long as the rider is happy!). Our intention is that riders can actually build a bond with their horse and enjoy not only the landscape and ride but also the company of their horse – but some riders like the idea of trying as many horses as possible – let us know. As always one or more spare horses will accompany us in case a change is needed. The horses we use are the local Ecuadorian Andean Criollo breed crossed with numerous other breeds (English, Spanish, Peruvian, Arab…) producing a steed ideally suited to the terrain and with a wonderful temperament. Criollo breeds have developed from horses that were first brought from Spain in the 17th century, developing very different characteristics in each region, depending on terrain and the needs of the local horsemen.
They are specially selected, well trained and good natured. Our horse are usually between 14.2 and 15.2hh. Riders normally change to fresh horses at least once during the trip.
It is incredibly important that you provide us accurate riding ability details – we try to put a lot of work into selecting suitable horses for each rider.
Tack
We use McClellen saddles, a western’ type saddle with low rounded pommel (no horn) and a thick sheep skin atop. It is easy to ride ‘english style’ on these saddles, as well as western. Each saddle has saddlebags & a poncho. ‘English style’ (two hand direct reining) & neck reining (western ‘one-hand’ indirect rein riding) are both used. People adapt very quickly but the guide and ‘chagras’ are on hand to give some advice. This tack is very suitable for long days in the saddle.
Guides
Guests are always accompanied by a guide (bilingual: English/Spanish) who has many years’ experience of riding. In addition, at least one ‘groom’ is present –usually a skilled local horseman. Both guides and grooms have excellent local knowledge and are good riders. There is also additional ground staff. Professional guides speaking other languages are available on prior request.
In case of accident, our guides carry a mobile phone so that they can contact assistance (local emergency services/back up vehicle/our Doctor in Quito) – the mobile phone coverage is generally excellent.
Weight restriction
Due to the altitude & difficult terrain a weight supplement applies to provide riders of 85-100kg (185-220lbs) and over with two horses. Agreement prior to booking is necessary.
Altitude
We strongly advise a few days acclimatization prior to the ride. We recommend at least 24 hours in Quito/at same altitude as Quito prior to day 1 of the tour as the riding portion of the trip starts at 2800 meters high (same altitude as Quito).
Guests rarely experience any problems, but please note that we ride above 3000 meters and sometimes even above 4000 meters. Guests must seek medical advice if they have any doubt as to whether they are able to be at these altitudes.
Insurance
Guests are responsible for having an adequate, valid insurance policy including cover for all the sporting activities that they are likely to participate in. This is mandatory.
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.
|
|
|
|
Cotopaxi Getaway
Tour Code:
IT-ECSR09
3 days /
2 nights
Dates :
Available all Year
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. |
|