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Last Update: 21 Apr 2013

Riding Holidays | Ecuador

Ecuador is located in the northwest of South America between Colombia and Peru. It is a similar size to Great Britain. The Andean Mountains run the length of the country and divide it into three distinct areas; the Highlands, the Amazon and the Pacific Coast. Not forgetting the Galapagos Islands, six hundred miles offshore which make a wonderful extension to a horse riding holiday in Ecuador.

The starting point for an Ecuador riding holiday will be the capital city, Quito. This was the first city to be named a World Heritage Site and is the best preserved of all the cities in Latin America. Due to the altitude of Ecuadorian riding holidays we suggest visitors have at least two nights in Quito to acclimatise before your riding trip. Join a Colonial Hacienda Ride or a Cotopaxi Adventure ride. These two trail riding itineraries allow you to explore amazing scenery from horseback and experience the wonderful local culture. As you ride through small villages you often pass by the friendly Ecuadorians wearing vibrant traditional dress as they go about their daily tasks. Both the above trail rides finish with long canters across the stunning volcanic landscape around the Cotapaxi Volcano.

The mountain terrain can be challenging in places which makes these rides best suited for experienced riders or very confident intermediate riders. Your host Sally Vergette fell in love with Ecuador many years ago making it her home and her enthusiasm for the country is clear in her guiding style which is a highlight for many. The horses used for these rides are Criollo crosses. Descended from the Spanish Conquistadors' stock, the Criollo are fit and sure footed, ideally suited to the terrain of the high Andes. They are specially selected, well trained and good natured. Maybe try a cattle round up in the Ecuadorian Andes.

Horse riding vacations in Ecuador are also possible based at an eco lodge in the El Choco rainforest reserve or following an Inca Trail through the San Jorgo botanical reserve. Visit another eco lodge set in an extinct volcano crator and explore this unique bioshere from the back of a horse. Fit and experienced riders can also try a ten day challenging riding trail through the high Andes.

The weather in Ecuador is difficult to predict but as a general rule, the dry season is from the end of May until the end of September. From November until the middle of March you can expect sunny mornings but occasional afternoon rain.

	Colonial Hacienda Riding adventure in the Andes, staying in wonderful old family homes.
	Cotapaxi Adventure Varied paced riding in two stunning yet very distinct areas of Ecuador. Start on the grassy tracks between the patchwork fields of the valleys of the northern highlands and end with long canters across the arid plains in the Cotopaxi park.
	Note - either ride can be combined with a visit to the Galapagos Islands