Join us for horse trekking across the open paramo - contouring trails around steep hills - deep in forest - on top of the world.  If that is where you want to be, join us on this horse riding adventure in Ecuador.  The clump of the hooves and hummingbirds buzzing is all we hear as trek through our own world, away from the roads and tourist trails. It's a mystical experience...

Day 1: Quito - Nature Reserve Bellavista / no riding
From Quito we drive over the western cordillera towards the Pacific cloud forest where our horses await us. On our way we have the chance to visit the Equator Monument 15 km north of Quito. After lunch we arrive at "Bellavista" nature reserve where we'll be welcomed to the cosy lodge with hot showers and delicious, wholesome food. From the balcony of our shared room, we can enjoy a breath-taking view far over the cloud forest and listen to the sounds of exotic birds. L, D.

Day 2: Nature Reserve Bellavista - Nono / Riding time 5:30 hrs
On horseback, we head through a lush green region of pristine forest dotted with waterfalls towards Tandayapa fishing resort. We then ride a gentle uphill section for several hours, drawing closer to Pichincha volcano, which towers above us at almost 4800m. We then ride to the tiny picturesque village of Nono, where we set up camp at a farm. Next to a warm fireplace, the farmer’s family may tell us something about local lifestyles. B, L, D.

Day 3: Nono - Calacali / Riding time 4:00hrs
We'll be riding along green, hilly pastures, passing several stately farms, where we get a good impression of the history of the country. Awaiting us is a hot evening meal in the 200 year old romantic farm house situated next to the volcanic springs of Calacalí. Bring your swimming gear in case it's a hot day. B, L, D.

Day 4: Calacali - Pululahua / Riding time 5:00hrs
After crossing the Equator from south to north we ride downhill through forests of bamboo into the crater of Pululahua volcano. The scenery is magnificent. We only come across a few small farmhouses along the way, where the highland farmers scratch a meagre income from the steep land. At the bottom of the crater, a mystical and very peaceful place, we rest at a pleasant country. B, L, D.

Day 5: Pululahua - Aguacatal / Riding time 4:30hrs
Leaving the volcano we pass deep gorges and cross eroded lava fields which bloom with wild orchids, and then are in the valley of the Rio Blanco. We enjoy the warm and tropical climate where we find coffee bushes, fields of sugar cane and tropical fruits. Pre Inca ruins can be observed along the way. "Aguacatal" is the name of the very remote and beautiful farm that offers us beds for tonight. B, L, D.

Day 6: Rest day in Aguacatal / no riding
Having gone half our way to Otavalo, we will take a rest today, for those who wish to. Those who could spend their life on horseback, also have the chance to explore the beautiful surroundings by horse on their own. Those who would like a change of activity, are invited to accompany us by jeep to the Inca ruins of Rumicucho and after that take a mountain bike ride back to El Aguacatal. B, L, D.

Day 7: Aguacatal - San José de Minas / Riding time 7:30hrs
This is the day for the adventurous! After crossing the bridge over the furious and turbulent river Guayllabamba, we ride along a nerve-wracking trail above the river for several hours. We follow the river upstream through the most breathtaking landscapes you can imagine. We will have to dismount on several sections of this trail. In the late afternoon we reach the village of San José de Minas, an old mining town. The view of the town is dominated by a mighty colonial church with stories to tell. In its stony archways we'll find shelter and a restaurant in a local hostel. B, L, D.

Day 8: San José de Minas - Cuicocha / Riding time 6:00hrs
Riding across the fields and pastures of the Paramo and up into wild and windy heights, we head to the beautiful lakes of Cuicocha, which is surrounded by mountains. Here, we spend the night in a hostel at an altitude of 3700m above sea-level. Bring warm clothing and a warm sleeping bag; playing cards welcome! B, L, D.

Day 9: Cuicocha - Otavalo - Quito / no riding
After breakfast our support vehicle will pick us up and take us to Otavalo where we have a great view across the next valley to the surrounding mountains. In this small Andean town, world-famous for its handicrafts and woollen products, we have chance to visit its lively, colourful market. You can stay on in Otavalo on your own (nearby attractions are Peguche waterfall or San Antonio de Ibarra) or drive back with us to Quito, where we will leave you at your hotel. B, L.

Grade: Difficult - experienced riders only. 

Weight Limit: The riders should not weigh more than 85kg. 

Saddle Type: On this ride you have the choice between English and Western Saddles.