4 or 5-Day Andes Mountains Horseback Riding Tour

Tour Summary

Get ready for an extraordinary experience horseback riding through Ecuador‘s Andes Mountains. Your journey starts with the awe-inspiring Cotopaxi National Park, moves through magical Andean views, and even includes a peaceful stop at the Owl Refuge. You’ll also get to know the Chagra culture up close, wander around the scenic village of El Pedregal, and journey through pristine forests filled with local plant life.

But that’s not all. You’ll also explore ancient Inca ruins and meander along the calm Pita River, all while taking in the incredible sights around you. So, if you’re looking for a trip filled with adventure, culture, and memories you’ll keep forever, you won’t want to miss these rides in the Ecuadorian Andes. Come explore Ecuador’s natural beauty and rich history with us. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Gallery

Highlights

ChusigmachaiVisit the Owl Refuge to learn about the local efforts to conserve and protect owls in their natural habitat.
Cotopaxi VolcanoExplore one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, covered with snow at its peak.
Chagra CultureSubmerge into the local chagra culture as you don the traditional attire of Andean horsemen, providing a captivating glimpse into their way of life.
Rumiñahui VolcanoClimbing Rumiñahui provides mesmerizing panoramic views of the surrounding Andean landscapes.
El Pedregal El Pedregal provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, offering a chance to unwind and connect with nature.

Itinerary

DAY 1 RUMIÑAHUI VOLCANO - CHUSIGMACHAI
In the morning set out from Quito and get ready for an exhilarating trip to Hacienda El Porvenir. Once you arrive, you’ll receive a quick but important riding lesson to gear you up for the day’s thrills.

Next, kick-start your exciting horseback ride toward the dormant Rumiñahui volcano. You’ll travel along exclusive trails that weave through the volcano’s slopes, all while taking in the stunning Andean scenery. Eventually, you’ll reach a lookout point near Rumiñahui‘s rocky peaks.

After that, there’s an opportunity to pause at the fascinating Chusigmachai, also called the Owl Refuge. This is where you’ll hear about the important work being done to help the local owl population followed by a tasty packed lunch. Then, you’ll mount up again and steer back to Hacienda El Porvenir.

At the Hacienda, there will be a delicious, locally sourced dinner ready to greet you. It’s the perfect end to an action-packed day.
- Activity:Horseback riding, exploring, sightseeing.
- Transport:Car.
- Meal:Box lunch, dinner.
- Accommodation:Hacienda el Porvenir or similar.
DAY 2 COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast at Hacienda El Porvenir, you’ll head out to Hacienda El Tambo, nestled in the eastern mountain range. As you follow the trails, keep your eyes peeled for the awe-inspiring Cotopaxi volcano.

Your next stop? The ancient Inca fortress of Pucará del Salitre. This adds a rich layer of cultural history to your ride. As you continue on this journey, you’ll marvel at a variety of breathtaking landscapes—mountain rivers, tranquil lakes, and incredible panoramas—covering about 27 mi (43 km) over 6 to 7 hours.

Now, when it’s time to refuel, you’ll enjoy a hearty packed lunch. Once you reach Hacienda El Tambo, a warm welcome is in store. Make yourself comfortable in the charming farmhouse, and then get ready for a delicious traditional dinner and gather around a cozy fire, the perfect setting to recount your adventurous day.
- Activity:Horseback riding, birdwatching.
- Meal:Breakfast, box lunch, dinner.
- Accommodation:Hacienda el Tambo
DAY 3 QUILINDAÑA VOLCANO
Kick off your morning with a scrumptious breakfast at Hacienda El Tambo, gearing up for a thrilling day in the Andes. You’ll venture out on horseback, navigating the undulating terrain around Quilindaña, a dormant volcano that’s been quiet for ages. The towering mountain reaches up to 16,000 ft (4,877 m), offering unique terrain to traverse.

In your travels, you’ll encounter native trees like the pantza or polylepis—commonly known as the paper tree. Here’s a perfect chance to dismount and wander through the magical forest. Afterward, dig into a packed lunch enjoying the landscapes.

As the day draws to a close, hop back on your horse and ride back to the inviting atmosphere of Hacienda El Tambo. Once there, treat yourself to a flavorful dinner that caps off an unforgettable day.
- Activity:Horseback riding, hiking.
- Meal:Breakfast, box lunch, dinner.
- Accommodation:Hacienda el Tambo.
DAY 4 CHIRIMACHAI
As you wake up early, say goodbye to the peaceful surroundings of Hacienda El Tambo and set off on your horse for the return journey. You’ll ride alongside the picturesque River Tambo, guiding you toward the iconic Cotopaxi volcano.

Opt for the elevated trail frequently used by locals and head toward Chirimachai, soaking in the mesmerizing landscapes that unfurl before you. You’ll get to traverse the Curipugyo Canyon, a spot that bears marks of past volcanic eruptions. Halfway through, enjoy a satisfying packed lunch and soak in the magnificent vistas before you get back to the action.

Your final ride will take you across Cotopaxi National Park, following a route that offers some exceptional scenic spots for reflection. There will be a delicious dinner waiting for you back in the Hacienda.

Here ends your 4-Day Itinerary.
- Activity:Horseback riding.
- Transport:Car.
- Meal:Breakfast, box lunch, dinner (for 5-day itinerary).
- Accommodation:Hacienda el Porvenir.
DAY 5 PEDREGAL VALLEY
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll trot along roads paved with cobalt stones, taking you through the inviting village of El Pedregal, where you can explore the local culture amid this quaint setting.

Then you’ll head toward the scenic Pita River area. Here, you can pause for a tasty packed lunch, fueling you up for the next exciting phase of your journey: a visit to the northern entrance of Cotopaxi National Park.

As the day comes to an end, you’ll circle back to Hacienda El Porvenir, putting the perfect finishing touch on your 5-Day Andes Mountain Horseback Riding Tour. All that’s left now is to get ready for your trip back to Quito.
- Activity:Horseback riding, sightseeing.
- Transport:Car.
- Meal:Breakfast, lunch.

Book now

Price Based on Number of Guests:

1 guest - Machai accommodation 4 days	$ 3,565 p.p.
2 - 4 guests - Machai accommodation 4 days	$ 1,782 p.p.
1 guest - Traditional accommodation 4 days	$ 3,701 p.p.
2 - 4 guests - Traditional accommodation 4 days	$ 1,851 p.p.
1 guest - Suite accommodation 4 days	$ 3,890 p.p.
2 - 4 guests - Suite accommodation 4 days	$ 1,945 p.p.
1 guest - Machai accommodation 5 days	$ 4,050 p.p.
2 - 4 guests - Machai accommodation 5 days	$ 2,025 p.p.
1 guest - Traditional accommodation 5 days	$ 4,213 p.p.
2 - 4 guests - Traditional accommodation 5 days	$ 2,107 p.p.
1 guest - Suite accommodation 5 days	$ 4,512 p.p.
2 - 4 guests - Suite accommodation 5 days	$ 2,256 p.p.

Check Availability

Inclusions

Meals as described in the itinerary.
Water, tea or coffee.
Private transportation to and from Quito’s hotel.
Experienced, certified, english-speaking guide.
Guided horse tour on healthy, strong horses for all levels.
Reserve's Fees
All activities as described in the itinerary.
24/7 assistance in English, Dutch and Spanish.
Exclusions

+ Additional food or beverages.
+ Personal health & travel insurance.
+ Optional tips for guides and drivers.
+ International flights.

Additional information

Prices for 2024 and 2025 are subject to change.
Important things to bring: warm and waterproof clothing, gloves, water, energy snacks, sunblock, sunglasses, and your passport.
Keep in mind that the weather at 13,000 ft (4,000 m) can change suddenly from sunny to cold with stormy winds and wet snow.
Since you will ride on steep mountain trails where oxygen is limited, it is our safety recommendation that the rider weigh 220 lbs (100 kg) or less.
Inform yourself about food safety when traveling to tropical countries. Take the necessary precautions to avoid food poisoning (always wash your hands before eating, don’t eat street food, only eat peeled fruits, etc.).
It is mandatory to have valid travel and medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
Rebecca Adventure Travel reserves the right to change the itinerary without prior notice due to weather conditions, availability, National Park regulations or notifications, and unforeseeable circumstances.
If you would like to enter the Cotopaxi National Park (for example, to visit Limpiopungo or the Cotopaxi Refugio, or to stop underway to take pictures), you are required to rent the services of a local guide. The cost is USD 40.