Ride the Trails: Horseback Riding Adventures in Ecuador

Thinking of going on a horseback riding tour in Ecuador? In a land where every turn reveals a new wonder, exploring the Ecuadorian Andes on horseback offers a thrilling journey. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced equestrian, you can traverse the high-altitude páramo. Nestled amidst this stunning scenery, you’ll find yourself surrounded by majestic peaks, picturesque villages, and lush valleys. Engage with indigenous communities, explore serene high-altitude lakes, and ride through dramatic canyons. With expert guides, safety is paramount, ensuring everyone enjoys the ride. So, get ready to forge lasting memories as you discover the magic of Ecuador from the saddle!

Ecuador adventures

When it comes to horseback riding in Ecuador, the Andes region unveils a captivating tapestry of landscapes that beckon adventurers to explore its diverse terrains. Travelers saddle up and embark on scenic rides through an otherworldly landscape dotted with unique flora and fauna. It’s here that you can truly immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Andes.

Horseback riding adventures take you through the picturesque villages and meadows of the Andean highlands, offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life in these mountain communities. As you ride along winding trails, you’ll witness the rolling hills and lush valleys that define this region, all while relishing the crisp mountain air.

Camping at Cotopaxi.

Top 5 Best Horseback Riding Tours

Embrace the opportunity to explore less-traveled routes and uncover the myriad natural marvels of this diverse nation through our thoughtfully designed horseback riding experiences.

What can you expect from a horseback riding tour with Rebecca Adventure Travel?

Explore the enchanting landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes through our top-notch horseback riding tours. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a newcomer seeking an authentic equestrian adventure, our diverse range of tours promises to immerse you in the stunning beauty of the Andean region.

Nature travel

Traverse lush valleys, meander through charming villages, and witness sensational vistas as you embark on a memorable journey with our knowledgeable guides. From leisurely rides to exhilarating treks, our tours cater to all levels of riders, ensuring an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the volcanoes in Ecuador. Saddle up and discover the Andes in a unique way!

Our trips also offer the opportunity to engage with local communities and indigenous villages along the way, creating a deep and meaningful connection to the land and its people. Join us for a memorable adventure, where you’ll experience the magic of Ecuador from the saddle, forging memories that will last a lifetime!

Chimborazo volcano.

Rebecca’s Top Picks

Feeling indecisive about selecting the ideal horseback riding destination? No worries, Rebecca has your back. Explore her top-rated tours and discover the one that perfectly suits your preferences!

Ecuador’s Volcano Avenue

The Avenue of Volcanoes in Ecuador features a captivating ensemble of majestic peaks. Cotopaxi, with its pristine slopes, is a towering marvel. Chimborazo, the nation’s highest pinnacle, beckons with its stunning landscapes. Cayambe boasts the world’s sole equatorial ice-capped summit. Antisana‘s serene allure is a haven for bird watchers.

Tungurahua, though occasionally fiery, offers thrilling hot springs. El Altar, with its rugged grandeur, conceals the enchanting Quilotoa crater lake. Sangay‘s untamed wilderness frames its active spires. The Illiniza twins, North and South, present challenging, scenic views. Each volcano is a unique gem, inviting exploration and leaving indelible memories of Ecuador’s biodiversity.

The Illinizas twins.

Best Spots for Horseback Riding

In the Andes, horseback riding experiences become a part of your cultural immersion, allowing you to engage with indigenous communities while exploring the breathtaking scenery. One of the standout locations is the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, a prime destination for horse enthusiasts. The highlight of Cotopaxi National Park, this towering giant offers an awe-inspiring backdrop for any ride.

Active travel

Inside the park, Limpiopungo Lagoon, a pristine high-altitude lake, is a serene haven surrounded by vast páramo grasslands. Here, travelers are greeted by magnificent vistas of rolling hills and the towering peaks of the Andes. The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters reflect the grandeur of the surrounding landscape, creating a tranquil setting perfect for reflection and appreciation of nature’s wonders.

Also within the park, José Ribas Mountain Refuge, perched at an elevation of 15,750 ft (4,800 m), offers a unique opportunity for travelers to experience the high-altitude splendor of the Andes. This cozy refuge provides respite for adventurers seeking to acclimatize before ascending to Cotopaxi or simply relishing the dazzling scenery. The refuge itself boasts rustic charm and serves as an ideal base for explorations of the highlands.

José Ribas Mountain Refuge.

As the journey continues, your horse will take you through the rugged terrain of Zumbahua Canyon and Toachi Canyon, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the Andes. Zumbahua Canyon’s unique topography–towering cliffs, rocky outcrops, and lush greenery–provides an exhilarating riding experience, with winding trails that reveal hidden nooks and crannies. Toachi Canyon is celebrated for its dramatic geological features, including steep cliffs, intricate rock formations, and the meandering Toachi River below.

The towering Chimborazo volcano, the closest point to the sun on Earth, beckons in the distance, providing a sense of thrill and a taste of the region’s rich history and culture. Venture further to the wondrous Quilotoa crater, a mesmerizing emerald lake tucked inside a volcanic caldera. Riding along the rim, you’ll be treated to striking panoramas of this geological wonder.

Ride the Andes

Trekking the Andes on Horseback

You don’t need any previous riding experience to go on a Rebecca Adventure Travel horseback riding tour. Our trips are designed to accommodate all levels in a single group, so each rider can enjoy to the best of their ability and everyone can get their turn at the saddle, even if they’ve never gotten on a horse.

For those riding for the very first time, our selection of expert guides will teach you the basics of mounting and maneuvering your horse. What you’ll need will depend on the kind of tour you choose. Your choice depends on the riding abilities of the members traveling. The diverse terrain of the Andes makes for a varied range of tours!

Quilotoa crater lake.

Ability Levels

The first step towards an amazing journey is matching your horseback riding skills with the demands of a ride, to create the perfect adventure. It’s not just about having a great time; it’s also about ensuring everyone enjoys the ride, including you, your fellow riders, and the horses.

A couple of things to consider:

• Saddle Styles: Do you prefer riding in English or Western tack? Or maybe you’re up for trying both and having a bit of fun with it?
• Physical Condition: What is your current level of physical strength and stamina?

Now, let’s break down the riding levels so you can figure out where you stand:

• Newcomer: New to riding, doesn’t post the trot or canter.
• Rookie: Can mount and dismount unassisted, handle basic riding commands, walk, trot, and some short canters.
• Skilled: Not a regular rider. Got a strong seat, feeling confident at all speeds (including trotting, two-point cantering, and galloping).
• Experienced: Riding regularly, is comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours a day.
• Advanced: All of the above, plus can handle spirited horses in open spaces, has soft hands, and an independent seat.

Our tours are sorted by riding skills, fitness level, and pace preference. We’re all about ensuring a fantastic experience for everyone, with no one feeling overwhelmed or held back. Safety and fun are our top priorities!

Horseback riding at Hacienda El Porvenir.

Essential Riding Gear

Preparing for a horseback riding adventure in the picturesque Ecuadorian Andes begins with gathering the right gear. Proper equipment not only ensures your comfort but also enhances your safety during the journey. Here, we’ll outline the riding gear that is essential to make your experience unforgettable.

• Helmet: Safety first! A certified riding helmet is non-negotiable. It safeguards your head in case of a fall and is especially crucial if you’re new to riding or exploring challenging terrains.
• Attire: Comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes, like jeans, are best. A long-sleeved shirt is advisable to protect your arms from the sun and potential scratches while riding through trails.
• Boots: Closed-toe riding boots with a slight heel provide better grip in the stirrups and protect your feet from accidental kicks or branches along the trail.
• Breeches or Half Chaps: Breeches are specialized pants that offer extra comfort in the saddle, prevent chafing, and provide flexibility for leg movement. If you prefer a simpler alternative, half chaps only cover your lower leg, providing extra grip and protection. They are especially handy for longer rides.

Horseback riding at Cotopaxi volcano.

Ready to Ride

All of the riding equipment will be provided for you at each location, so packing comes down to necessities for Andean terrain whenever you’re not on the horse. The following are the essentials to put in your saddlebag. Just be careful not to spook the horse with heavy dangling items that might fall!

• • Lightweight clothes for lower altitudes.
  • Warm layers of clothing for higher altitudes.
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
  • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots.
  • High-quality camera with zoom lens.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
  • Scarf and gloves.
  • Reusable water bottle and snacks.
  • Lightweight travel towel.
  • Personal medications.

Let’s plan your trip

Build Your Own Trip

Our Destination Experts are committed to crafting a horseback riding tour that lets you fully immerse yourself in Ecuador’s natural splendor. If you desire a customized horseback riding experience that matches your interests and desires, reach out to us today!