Hacienda Antisana
This trip affords great views of snow-capped peaks, rugged plains and the chance to see many birds of prey.
You camp in a remote area used by explorers of yesteryear, close to the Antisana glacier. We pack up and head out across the paramo where we encounter bulls and llamas and perhaps see the Andean condor.
Day 1
Met in Quito and taken to Pintag to meet the horses.
We ride from the farm in Pintag into the private Antisana Reserve. From here we follow trails that winds up onto the wild, rugged plains of Antisana with opportunities to see many birds of prey in the beautiful blue skies. The views across the valley are stunning as we climb up into the ‘paramo’ (unique Andean vegetation type).
After a stop for a picnic lunch, we continue on to Hacienda Antisana crossing the huge, rolling expanses of grassland. The views are spectacular: we can see several snow-capped volcanoes as well as the pastoral valleys below.
We pitch our tents next to an old hut that both von Humboldt and Whymper used during their expeditions several centuries ago, we dine and enjoy the camp fire while admiring the incredible night sky packed with stars, the glistening Antisana glacier and the bright snows of the distant Cotopaxi volcano. Riding time: 6 hours. PL, D.
Day 2
We ride from Hacienda Antisana crossing the rugged grasslands of the paramo, often meeting a lone chagra checking the cattle on these isolated plains, we have to be careful as some of these cattle are purebred fighting bulls! The chagras that accompany us, equipped with lassos keep us safe. There is a llama flock here as well as the grazing hacienda horses, roaming the hills. As well as the birds of prey and high altitude humming birds, it is very rare not to see at least one Andean condor on this route.
After a picnic lunch, we descend back down the farm by a different route, our sure footed horses tackling the steep slopes with ease. The grasslands are carpeted with wild flowers and as we descend we pass native trees. Riding time: 5 to 6 hours. Return to Quito. AB, PL, D.
Please note: On certain tours, small groups may arrive and/or leave the farm by public transportation. A guide will always accompany guests and we will pay for the fares.
About the farm
The farm, close to Pintag (from where the rides start), is only 45 minutes by car south-east of Quito but offers a range of different riding options through spectacular terrain, close to the private Antisana Ecological reserve (on some rides we enter this reserve).
The rides follow ancient trails used by the ‘chagras’ (Andean cowhands) for centuries, the tracks wind through the scenic countryside, through Andean forest and up to the high plains and wild grasslands of the ‘paramo’ (Andean highland vegetation). All of the trails that we ride along have stunning views of Ruminahui, Sincholagua and Pasochoa volcanoes, and on a clear day the snow-capped peak of Cotopaxi volcano and many of the routes take us alongside the fascinating lava flow and up to the point where the liquid lava flowed out of the earth almost 400 years ago.
The earth tracks and cobbled lanes are lined with a huge variety of native plants and the ‘paramo’ grasslands are filled with wild flowers. On the routes guests see a wide variety of birds including hummingbirds, hillstars and many species of birds of prey. The magnificent Andean condor sometimes puts in an appearance as we ride high into the sierra.
We have a selection of horses to suit riders of all abilities (it is vital that guests give us accurate riding details), saddlebags and ponchos, snacks and water bottles for each rider.
These tours are available all year round. They are offered on a private or group basis and suitable for riders of all levels of ability and experience. On most day’s the ride can easily be adapted to suit less experienced riders.
Notes
Transport
The tours all include transport from Quito and all services (horses, guides, grooms, food, equipment and- where applicable- accommodation). Transport for individual riders/small groups can be in the form of being accompanied on a public bus.
Luggage
On camping/hacienda trips packhorses or a vehicle carry all of our equipment and personal luggage from the farm to our overnight destination. Saddlebags are used to carry picnic lunches and personal items.
Equipment
Ponchos are provided and (upon prior request) we can often lend chaps or half chaps. The equipment includes ‘half’ western style saddles (guests can ride either English or western style), saddlebags and ponchos for each guest.
You are requested to bring a sleeping bag and mat for overnight camping trips (these can be rented). CAMPING is very basic, with two man tents with mats. Toilet facilities are basic. Hot meals & drinks are provided.
Riding skills
It is the responsibility of the individual guest to ensure that he or she has the necessary riding skills to take part in the tour chosen. You can request instruction if you wish and for private groups can have a riding lesson at the farm on day 1 prior to the riding out or have more formal lessons prior to day 1 (prior notice needed).
Health and Safety
We pay special attention to the safety of our guests and the health of our horses. The guide always carries a mobile telephone and first aid kits and a back-up vehicle is always available.
Appropriate medical insurance is mandatory and the responsibility of each indivudual.
You are strongly recommended to wear your own riding helmet on the riding tour.
Guests will be required to sign a responsibility release before starting a tour.
Horses
We make every possible effort to provide ideal horses for the terrain for each rider’s level of experience. You usually have at least two horses to choose from and start by riding in an enclosed area to ensure you are comfortable with their horse.
Prices
Prices are per person in GBP pounds and US Dollars and include all services as described in the individual itineraries (i.e guide, horses, meals, accommodation, transport all included). Local taxes and park and reserve entrance fees included. Food key: AB= cooked breakfast, PL= picnic lunch (different menus, not just a sandwich), D=dinner.
Please contact the office for more pricing information.
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.
You can combine your Ecuador holiday with a magical trip to the unique Galapagos Islands. Choose a cruise or if you want to get active have a look at our popular Multi-Activity Holiday. Or if you want to extend your stay on the mainland, explore the wildlife of the beautiful Ecuadorian Amazon jungle.
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