Riding Expeditions since 1988
Contact emailEquestrian Safaris Ltd.,Tanzania tel: +255-754595517
Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure
A circuit of the perfectly conical, snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano in Ecuador, midst the breathtaking, wild highlands including Cotopaxi National Park and 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) as we 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 we pass through primary woodland with native trees and shrubs. We 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 we ride along old Inca routes, on others we 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, inns & isolated farmhouses, built of a variety of materials: from adobe with thatched roofs to original Inca stone and even a very comfortable lodge built of straw bales covered with adobe.
The ride is planned as a complete circuit around the volcano but, due to the varying weather conditions, flexibility is needed and the actual route and accommodation may not be finalised until just before the ride.
This is a ride for fit riders capable of riding in a multitude of challenging terrains and spending long days in the saddle. We strongly advise a few days acclimatisation prior to the ride and, to this effect, can arrange a few days riding and a visit to the famous Otavalo market, "derust" riding instruction and many other activities in a very different area of the Andean highlands.
Itinerary
Day 1We drive out of Quito and meet the horses (1h). This first day offers a very varied route including some tricky sections where we dismount and let the horses negotiate the rocky riverbeds on their own, and also some riding along country lanes, through forests and across grasslands (5-6hrs). We arrive at a working hacienda (ranch) and have to carefully negotiate the pastures - this farm is famous for its feisty Spanish fighting bulls! The scenery is spectacular and very varied with green valleys and rolling hills and we are surrounded by jagged rocky summits and snow capped peaks. We leave the horses to descend down the valley to a beautiful old Jesuit hacienda in time for tea, then to admire the sunset in magnificent surroundings. A delicious 4 course dinner and overnight at this historic hacienda with verandas and large landscaped gardens. Twin/double and triple rooms. Shared bathrooms (limited number of single rooms and rooms with private bathroom).
Day 2
We rejoin the horses. Having followed some tracks and cobbled roads up the valley to a very large hacienda we take to huge grassy fields and enjoy some exhilarating canters across the pastures and ride towards Cotopaxi National Park through the foothills of Sincholagua volcano, approaching the perfectly conical shape of the snow-capped Cotopaxi Volcano (the highest active volcano in the world) (7hrs). Sincholagua clearly marks the continental divide - the precipitation that falls 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 more fighting bulls, we turn westwards, cross a river and arrive at a working farm at the base of Ruminahui Volcano for a comfortable overnight in this very traditional adobe and thatch farmhouse. Twin rooms with shared bathrooms (single rooms available and rooms with private bathroom).
Day 3
Today we 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. We 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 at the head of a valley and following tracks around the craggy Ruminahui peak we reach a high pass (4200m). Traversing scree slopes, with magnificent views of the surrounding Andean peaks and valleys below we drop down into the Machachi Valley. Riding on we leave the open grasslands and ride through cultivated lands - the very fertile black volcanic soils ideal for wonderful crops of potatoes. We ride on to a charming converted farmhouse for dinner (usually a barbeque) and overnight. Twin rooms with private and shared bathrooms (limited no. of private bathrooms. Single rooms available).
Day 4
Today we 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). Our 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 we ride the length of a valley scraped out by glaciers at the end of the Ice Age. In places we ride over layers of pumice stone - deposited by the volcanoes, and during the ride the horses expertly negotiate two steep gorges. We 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. We 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
We 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) we cross the beautiful paramo grasslands, without a house in sight. After another delicious picnic in the breathtaking scenery, we 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. A good chance of seeing the mighty Andean condor, deer and Andean fox. We occasionally meet a lone "chagra" (Andean cowhand) with his trusty dog riding out to check the cattle. As we round a hill and cross some native scrubland we often sight Antisana Volcano complete with the massive glacier. The house we 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 we turn west and ride back into Cotopaxi National Park, through the northern foothills of the Volcano. Leaving the "tambo" (Inca overnight stopover point) we have a long ride ahead (7-8 hrs) firstly following a wide river floodplain we 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 we 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. We ride onto some wonderful grassy plains allowing for some long canters - often joined by the wild horses that roam the area, until we arrive at our 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
We ride out for a final day in the wild Andes (6 hrs). After some fast paced riding, we climb up along grassy trails then along rocky paths over outcrops close to the summit of Sincholagua. As we cross the expanses of grassland and admire the seemingly endless views - not a fence or even a hut for miles around, we 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. We 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 us 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, we meet a track that takes us back down to civilization. Saying farewell to our 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. End of services.
About this ride
A challenging ride over varied terrain. ACCLIMATISATION needed.
* Mainly twin/double rooms with shared bathrooms. Some nights private bathroom
* Option to pay supplement and private bathroom for 6 or all 7 nights.
* For larger group two nights of triples or quad rooms may be necessary but this will always be made clear at the time of booking.
* No camping.
* No sleeping bags needed.
* Towel needed.
* Route changes often occur due to microclimate weather conditions around Cotopaxi. The intention is always to make a circuit of Cotopaxi, but the lodgings can change and may have to be decided at the last moment.
* Single supplement for single room (limited numbers): USD290 Supplement per room for private bathroom: USD230
* Fully inclusive package including: horse (spare horses taken), guide and grooms, 3 meals per day, snacks and water on rides, 7 nights accommodation, national park/private reserves etc. entrance fees, transport to and from Quito, transport of bags between lodgings and all local taxes. Saddlebags and poncho for each guest.
* Transfer to and from Quito international airport also included.
Not included
Gratuities and personal expenditure such as bar bills.
* Dinner day 7.
Sample of available extensions
This ride is also available as a more comfortable and higher priced Colonial Hacienda ride (CH).
Galapagos Island cruises (8 days), Amazon jungle trips (minimum 3 days), famous Otavalo market (1 day), cloud forest visits (minimum 2 days) white water rafting (1 day), relaxing at the historic haciendas, city tours (half day) and much more.
IMPORTANT NOTES
Cotopaxi Volcano is currently dormant, closely monitored and showing no signs of activity.
* Tour length: 8 days, 7 full days riding. The tour is very dependent on weather conditions - if adverse weather conditions in the isolated part, south-east of Cotopaxi we have to change the route. We do have some excellent alternatives to the itinerary published.
* Meeting point: Quito, where the international airport is. We can take care of all your travel arrangements during your stay - booking extra tours. Following a confirmed booking, detailed travel advice including equipment and clothing lists will be available.
* Altitude: most of the ride takes place above 3000 metres and we ride at above 4000 metres (4220m). We advise arriving early in Ecuador to acclimatize. Guests must seek medical advice as to whether they are able to be at these altitudes.
* Riding ability: intermediate and above - able to canter in open spaces and also be prepared to ride on steep slopes and tricky terrain. Guests need to be riding fit - long days in the saddle with some tough riding. At various points guests may be leading their horses (but not normally over long distances).
* Horses: local criollo breed crossed with Andalusian, Arab, thoroughbred, Peruvian Paso - ideally suited to the terrain.
* Equipment/tack: McClennan western style saddles with sheepskin seats (easy to ride English style), horses used to neck reining and English style 2 hands. Ponchos and saddlebags for each rider.
* NOT provided: towel.
* Guides: expert rider leading the trip, bilingual with much experience. Also a skilled, local horseman that knows the backcountry accompanies the group. Grooms: will be present to help guests with the horses. Guests are not expected to tack and untack their horses.
* Accommodation: 7 nights in double/twin bedded rooms, mixture of rooms with and without private bathrooms (it is possible to pay extra charge for private bathroom throughout). On a few nights possibly triple rooms will be necessary. Single room possible (limited availability, extra charge applies). Towel needed.
* Food and drinks: hot breakfast, varied picnic lunches, 3 course hot dinner. Snacks and also bottled water provided each day. Guests can buy soft drinks and alcohol each evening.
* 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.
* It is the responsibility of the individual guest to ensure that participants have the necessary riding skills to take part in the tour.
* Guests will be required to sign a responsibility release before starting a tour.
Detailed information
Riders normally change to fresh horses every 3 to 5 days, depending on the ride. Private tours: the tours can be customised to suit guests needs (more days riding, shorter daily rides, days out of the saddle added in - bird watching, hiking, visiting the local markets or craft villages). The tours are ideal for mixed groups of riders/´non´riders - it is very easy to provide very varied daily activities for non riders. FAMILIES are welcome on private rides. For private tours, departures can be any day of the week. For set date group tours please consult us for the departure dates - usually a Saturday.
HORSES The horses are mainly warm/hot blood lines (English, Arabs, Pasos) crossed Criollo (descendants of the Spanish Conquistadors stock) - ideal for the terrain. They are specially selected, well trained and good natured. Great attention is paid to matching horse and rider and on most rides horses 14.2-15.2hh are available. Most horses can be ridden western style (neck reining, one hand) or English style, some are only used to one or the other ALL the horses need to be ridden with contact and not a loose-rein style (please let us know if you have a preference for English or Western style).
PACE The pace is very varied due to the great variety of terrain. Most days there are opportunities for faster pace riding and on the last 3 days of the scheduled (group/set date) departure itineraries there is ample opportunity for long canters,the ride is not suitable for those unable/unwilling to trot and canter.. The rides in Ecuador - due to the altitude - are not suitable for guests wanting to ´gallop flat out´ for most of the day, please consult with us for other destinations.
RIDING ABILITY We ride through varying terrain, some parts quite steep and across open ground; guests will be given horses depending on their riding experience. The set date (group) departure rides are for intermediate riders and above. Novice/beginner riders are welcome on private rides and the routes will be adapted to suit their level of riding ability. Enjoyment from these rides can be greatly increased if guests are physically fit and their riding muscles toned. Guests are welcome to arrive before the start of the tours in order to do an extra ride with the guide or some riding lessons. It is vital that we are provided with the most accurate information possible regarding rider ability, height and weight. (Also see booking form) Please refer to the list of competence levels as detailed at the end of this document, when in doubt please check with us. NOTE: The guides have full authority to exclude a rider from the trip for inability to ride at the level required or riding ability/behavior which endangers the other riders or horses. No refunds will be made under these circumstances.
RIDING TIME PER DAY All rides of more than three hours include regular breaks, all day rides normally include a lunch break of approximately one hour. On the 7 day tours we ride on average 5-7 hours a day except for a shorter ride on the first day (please refer to each itinerary for details). All times given are approximate.
NON-RIDERS The haciendas are lovely buildings and have wonderful gardens, so there is plenty of interest for non riders. If non-riders wish, activities can be organised for them (extra charges apply) and, on some days, everyone can meet up for the lunchtime picnic. Please ask for further details.
GUIDES/GROOMS Guests are accompanied by a guide (bilingual: English/Spanish) and at least one local second guide/groom. The guides have excellent local knowledge of the highlands of Ecuador and are expert riders with many years of experience guiding on and off horseback. There is also additional ground staff. Professional guides speaking other languages are available on prior request.
RIDING EQUIPMENT/TACK The MacClennan saddles used are classed as western style (ex US Cavalry saddles) but it is very easy to ride English style instead of western in these saddles. Sheepskin seats are provided. English saddles are sometimes available upon prior request. A few horses are only ridden in English tack. The bits are mainly English, not western but can be ridden western style (neck reining) or English style (two hands/direct rein).
GENERAL EQUIPMENT (please also refer to EQUIPMENT LIST ) A medical kit both for horse rider is carried on all outings however short. Saddles have saddlebags for a few personal belongings. Ponchos are provided for each guest. Support vehicles to carry most of the equipment and luggage. On most trips a four-wheel drive vehicle is present each night. All the haciendas/farmhouse have telephones on the CH ride, but not all on the CA ride. On all rides mobile telephones and/or two-way radios are carried.
GROUP SIZE Set date (group/scheduled) departures: No more than 12 guests per group, often 10 or less. Private tours any group size can be catered for.
HEALTH It is a very healthy environment both for riders and for horses. There are comparatively few insects in the highlands and malaria is not present here. Vaccinations: it is essential that you consult your doctor or an appropriate vaccination/health centre for up to date information. No vaccines are currently required to enter Ecuador except if you have visited a country which has yellow fever, in which case the yellow fever vaccination is required. Guests travelling to certain parts of the jungle or the coast will need, for example, malaria pills. Medical kits are carried on every ride. In Quito there are excellent English speaking doctors and dentists. Please also see section on altitude.
WEIGHT RESTRICTION Due to the altitude and terrain, there is a weight restriction. Without prior agreement we are unable to accept riders of over 85kg and will apply this rule. By special request we are able to cater for a small number of heavier riders on some rides, a supplement to be paid as two horses per day will be provided.
CLIMATE (degrees centigrade) WE ARE RIDING IN THE MOUNTAINS: AT TIMES IT IS VERY HOT DURING THE DAY (30 degrees centigrade) BUT BOTH DURING THE DAY AND NIGHT IT CAN BE COLD AND WINDY and can rain. The climate in the Ecuadorian highlands allows us to offer rides almost all year round. During the day the temperatures can rise to 28-30C, although most days start with a crisp 6-10C and the night-time temperature can be 2C. At night around the crater lakes the temperature can drop to freezing. In the rainy season (October to May in most areas) the rain does not fall daily and is hardly ever prolonged. Afternoon showers occur, by then the day s ride is usually over. Rain ponchos are available for each guest.
ALTITUDE For the exact altitude please consult the information about each individual ride. Most of the riding takes place above 2500 metres (on some rides we go up to 4200m on a high pass but then descend for the night). On arrival guests often feel slight effects of the altitude. The rides are planned so that guests can acclimatise and while the horses will be doing most of the work guests should check with their doctor as high altitude may be inadvisable for certain medical conditions. It is beneficial to arrive in Quito one or two days prior to the start of the tour and strongly advised for the CA ride - tow or three days to acclimatise.
Clothing, equipment personal effects: All bed linen and towels will be provided at the haciendas/hotels tours (CH for example) but guests should bring their own towel on the adventure tours (CA) and also a 4 season, mountaineering sleeping bag if camping (private tour option only). Given prior notice, we are able to rent good quality sleeping bags with inner cotton liners. Please do not forget: -a photocopy of your passport (we carry copies for identification.) Your passport (not a copy) is needed for Galapagos Islands, Amazon trips and also for any domestic flights. -camera/video equipment -spare batteries for cameras/videos etc., memory cards etc. (batteries run down quicker at altitude). -high quality sunglasses with protective lenses - NOT fashion glasses -suitable sun protection cream -clothing for COLD weather (riding and for evenings) Guests may like to bring: -binoculars -travel adaptor (110V, 2 or 3 pin USA style plugs)
Riding in the highlands: Multiple thin layers of clothing are recommended for the changes in temperature. The Ecuadorian Highlands are famous for all four seasons in one day! -stretch trousers/jodhpurs (we advise against denim jeans/baggy trousers. Lightweight jodhpurs may be too thin.) -riding chaps - full or half length -thin longjohns /stockings/stretch lycra-style cycling shorts are useful under trousers/jodhpurs. -thermal underwear (if you feel the cold) -woollen cotton scarf -fleece jacket wool jumper (lovely examples for sale in Ecuador) -warm waterproof jacket (suitable for cold evening temperatures occasional rain/high winds when riding) -long sleeved cotton shirts and T-shirts -polo neck jumpers (cotton and/or wool) -strong boots (hiking boots/riding boots with rubber soles - you may have to walk on rough terrain.) -trainers/canvas shoes/deck shoes (for evenings market visits - comfortable, low/no heels) -riding gloves -wide brimmed hat (Stetson / panama/ safari style) - panama hats can be purchased in Ecuador -day pack -evening wear (trousers, shirt and sweater for the hotels, no formal wear necessary, except for special occasions) -flashlight -sun protector adequate for your skin type -small personal first aid kit (personal prescription drugs/medication, ibruprofen gel) -insect repellent -swimming costume (hot tub/thermal springs/swimming pool on some of the tours)
Additional items for adventure tours (Around Cotopaxi/Cotopaxi Adventure) and tours involving camping: -woolly hat -thick socks -thick jumper (there are beautiful examples in Ecuador for you to purchase, but bring at least one!)
-warm nightwear -towel -thermal underwear -pillow case if camping (to fill with clothes to make a pillow) -metal water bottle (if you feel the cold) to be filled with hot water used as a hot water bottle
LANGUAGE Most of the population speak Spanish - little English is spoken except in the haciendas/hotels and larger shops. Quichua is the Inca language spoken by the majority of the indigenous population.
LUGGAGE Please see equipment lists. Guests are required to bring the minimum of belongings - one medium sized bag per person- and we suggest that you pack your belongings for the riding tour in one bag and the Galapagos/jungle belongings in another bag (the Galapagos/rain forest bag will be stored safely during the riding tour.) On certain rides (private rides only, not the set date departure rides) packhorses are used so a soft duffle type bag is needed. Luggage limits on flights to the Galapagos are 20KG or 44LB and to the rain forest 10KG or 22LBS per person - one piece of checked luggage. Luggage storage available in Quito during the riding, Galapagos and rain forest trips (sometimes for a small fee). Luggage allowances for international flights: please consult the airline concerned.
MONEY MATTERS The national currency is the US Dollar. Please consult each individual itinerary for inclusions/exclusions (i.e what you may need money for). Apart from at the haciendas, where the prices tend to be only slightly below European/North American prices, the cost of drinks/meals is generally speaking cheap in Ecuador. Guests will need to bring money for: -drinks (soft drinks and alcoholic beverages) although juices and water are provided while riding. -several meals in Quito (depending on your itinerary). General guide to prices: meals around US$15-25. -expenses such as telephone calls and laundry bills -discretionary tips -souvenirs (Panama hats, wool jumpers, rugs and many other crafts.) N.B. US Dollars Foreign currency must be in perfect condition, otherwise it will not be accepted - no tears or writing on the notes etc. Please check very carefully with your bank. We suggest you bring a small amount of dollars in cash, in small denominations ($1, 5, 10, 20 s) and a credit card to get cash in Quito. US$ travellers cheques (also in smaller denominations of $20, 50 s - well known brands such as Amex and Visa are the most widely accepted) can only be cashed in Quito and this is getting more and more difficult. Please note, it is worth carrying a separate photocopy of your cheques in case of loss. Please note that on a lot of tours, especially adventure/camping, once you leave Quito there are no money exchange possibilities nor cash machines nor the possibility of paying by credit card. The haciendas accept payment in US$ cash and now rarely in US$ travellers cheques. Credit cards, of which Visa is the most popular, are only accepted at certain haciendas, in large stores and finer restaurants and can attract a surcharge. When changing money/accepting change, please be careful of false notes.
QUITO Your guide will be happy to assist you in the city by pointing out post offices as well as recommending shops, restaurants, bars etc. Quito Otavalo are the best places on the tours to buy stamps postcards.
TIME ZONES Mainland Ecuador is 5 hours behind GMT, the Galapagos Islands are 6 hours behind GMT. Ecuador is the same time zone as Eastern USA.
TIPPING Tipping is at your discretion. Hotels and restaurants will add, or have added, 10% service charge to your bill (please read the menu carefully), it is customary to add 10% as a tip. Airport and hotel porters: $US1. Taxi drivers do not expect tips. The Galapagos guide and boat crew are usually tipped as are the staff on a riding/trekking tour and the staff and guide at rain forest lodges. As a guideline, at the end of the riding tour guests usually give the guide US15-25 per guest per day to be distributed among all the staff.
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. the operator cannot accept any responsibility for loss/theft during your stay in Ecuador.
VISAS / PASSPORTS It is the responsibility of each individual guest to check that their passport and necessary papers are in order. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of departure from Ecuador. Citizens of most European and North American countries visiting Ecuador as tourists for less than 90 days currently do not require a visa. However, it is essential that you contact the Ecuadorian Embassy/Consulate in your home country for an update. Please leave a photocopy of your passport at home and bring an additional copy with you to Ecuador.
Trip summary
| Category | Country | Duration | Season | Level | Riders |
| Riding holiday | Ecuador | 8 days | All year | Level B | 2 - 10 |
Group price guide per person from 8-2 riders
| 8 riders | 7 riders | 6 riders | 5 riders | 4 riders | 3 riders | 2 riders |
| $1995 | $1995 | $1995 | $1995 | $1995 | $2660 | $3990 |
Fast riding pace
Accommodation standard
Sunny weather
Cultural interest
| Ride | Trip dates | Current status |
| Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure | 15 Jun - 22 Jun 2013 | Proposed |
| Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure | 20 Jul - 27 Jul 2013 | Proposed |
| Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure | 17 Aug - 24 Aug 2013 | Confirmed |
| Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure | 21 Sep - 28 Sep 2013 | Proposed |
| Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure | 05 Oct - 12 Oct 2013 | Proposed |
| Ecuador Cotopaxi Adventure | 14 Dec - 21 Dec 2013 | Proposed |
For more trip dates go to the list of proposed riding dates, please feel free to request a closed group booking of this ride.