Riding around Cotopaxi volcano on a winter morning
Cotopaxi volcano rising in the background
Rainbow on the paramo
Lake reflections
On the mountain
Checking the saddle
Early morning view over crater lake
cloudtops
Canter on top of the world
Ready to ride
Local bridles
beautiful horse
Afternoon ride
Another view
Cotopaxi Volcano
View and my horse
Riding with chagras
Horses drinking in lake
Evening shadows on the paramo
misty hillside
running horses
Alpaca at the local market
room
lounge
Breakfast terrace in the morning
Local market

Experience the beauty and grandeur of the Ecuadorean Andes on this horseback adventure. Friendly Chagras, Ecuadorean cowboys will greet you, exchange news, and even offer a drink as they wish horseback riders luck on their travels. This equestrian adventure incorporates rides past the Corazon, Illinizas and Quilotoa volcanoes.

There are two itineraries for Volcano trails; The Avenue of Volcanoes Trail (9-day programme) and the Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Ride (8-day programme). See the sample itinerary for more information.

Start in the verdant valley of Machachi, to the south of Quito. Surrounded by eleven volcanoes, this region is often referred to as "The Volcano Avenue". The only form of transportation during the trek is on horseback. The ride includes visits to several different haciendas and hostels, one of which is situated next to the Quilotoa crater lake.

One of the top 15 'World's Greatest Horse Treks' as compiled by CNN International

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from AH of Bury St Edmunds on 18/04/2023

Ride Summary
What was your overall impression of the holiday
Fabulous trip, good horses, lovely accommodation and food, beautiful scenery
Overall impression
Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments
Horses and Tack

Additional Comments
Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
We got caught in a hail storm and there were other rainy days, but were provided with waterproof ponchos and chaps so everything was done to keep us dry!
Was there anything you should have known and were not told? NO
Please give more details to explain your response:
N/A
What could we do to improve this ride?
When going to Bomboli, the ride back was mostly the same as the ride there the day before, if it were possible for the routes to be more different it would be great
How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?
6
Please explain why you scored it as you did:
Horses were very well mannered but there was some difficult terrain
Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
Have always been excellent to book with and trips are of good quality
May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?
YES
Any other comments:
Unicorn comments: Thank you for your ride comments... glad you had an amazing time!

There are 3 itineraries, each is outlined below and split into:
Avenue of Volcanoes - 10 days / 9 nights / 8 riding days
Cotopaxi Volcano and Hacienda Ride - 8 days / 7 nights / 6 riding days
Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Loop Ride - 12 days / 11 nights / 10 riding days

Avenue of Volcanoes ride - 10 days
Day 1

Transfer from hotel or airport. Depending on the arrival time, there may be opportunity for a short ride before dinner. Overnight at Hacienda la Alegria (or similar).

Day 2
Ride in the arena and get acquainted with the horses and tack that being used during the ride. Ride around the neighbouring Haciendas in the west Andes to acclimatize to the altitude and environment, horses and tack. Lunch at the Hacienda, followed by a visit to the milking barn, the cheese aging cave before enjoying dinner and a soak in the hot tub. Accommodation: La Alegria (or similar). Riding: 4 hours

Day 3
The morning ride crosses extensive pastures and eucalyptus forests and spectacular views of the “Volcano Avenue” and appreciate the fertile Machachi Valley. From here, the next day's route along the east mountain chain is visible. Ascend the Corazon volcano to 4,000m and descend through the Cloud forest reserve to observe the huge biodiversity of plants and flowers, including giant guneras, orchids, and birds like the turkey of the forest. Arrive at Hacienda Bomboli (or similar) at 3,000m in the afternoon and relax by the fireplace enjoying the sunset and watching the lights of the villages near the coast after dinner. Accommodation: Hacienda Bomboli (or similar). Riding: 6 hour

Day 4
There is a morning walk around the Hacienda’s gardens to learn about orchids and other Cloud forest plants. Ride up the hill, admiring the forest and the hundreds of flowers and plants. The route follows the old road that was built in 1873 to connect Quito with the coast. Arrive at Hacienda La Alegria for lunch, relax and enjoy the hot tub and the fireplace. Accommodation: La Alegria (or similar) Riding: 6 hours

Day 5
Ride to the west mountain range and through the valley toward Machachi. Stop at the Machachi market before continuing toward the Ruminahui and a stop at a Hacienda for a snack. Continue riding until reaching the Pedregal valley and stay overnight in a Hacienda at 3,500 meters. Accommodations Hacienda at Pedregal Valley (or similar)

Day 6
Transfer by vehicle to the start of the trail (1hr south of the Hacienda). Ride along the Inca trail and dirt trails to Isinlivi. From here it is possible to see from from one valley to another. In the distance one can see the Eastern Mountain Chain. The ride continues through several hills, arriving at the small village of Insilivi, founded in 1857, and the lodge for the night. Riding: 5 hour

Day 7
Meet the horses on a hill with a view of the Canyon formed by several eruptions of Quilotoa volcano. Start the ride uphill to reach Quilotoa Volcano crater lake. Cross villages that have planted the same crops for hundreds of year. Lupins, potatoes, quinoa and barley abound. Volcano pumice and dry soil hinder agriculture and only few people live in the region.
The volcano summit is at 4000 meters above sea level. This is where tonight's lodge is waiting, offering amazing views of the breath-taking Quilotoa Crater Lake. The 3-kilometer-wide caldera was formed by the collapse of this volcano after the last eruption over 1200 years ago. The water colour changes with the light. Accommodation: Quilotoa Lodge (or similar), next to the crater lake at 4000m. Riding: 5 hours

Day 8
This is a long day in the saddle. Ride to Sigchos, the village that was known as the “last home” of the Inca General Ruminahui.
After breakfast, head north along the ridge of Quilotoa Crater Lake. The trail goes across the highest mountain heading north-west. The route passes small dairy farms and artisanal cheese makers, where the group stop for a short visit and cheese tasting and to buy some cheese to mature in our cave at Hacienda la Alegria. Arrive in the afternoon at Hacienda San Jose (or similar), a working dairy farm and guest house. Enjoy a jacuzzi or sauna before dinner. Accommodation: Hacienda San Jose (or similar). Riding: 7 hour

Day 9
Ride through dramatic landscapes, including steep ravines. The final destination may look close, but the route crosses several mountain chains to get there. This area is a combination of forest, rock peaks and eroded land from past centuries. The last day riding in this spectacular region follows the Inca path. Head back to Hacienda La Alegria by car for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Hacienda La Alegria.

Day 10
Depart after breakfast, transfer to airport.

Alternative Itinerary for Cotopaxi Volcano and Hacienda Ride - 8 days
Day 1-4 as Avenue of Volcanoes itinerary, and then:

Day 5
Ride to the West Mountain range and through the valley towards Machachi and continue to the Ruminahui to stop for a snack at a Hacienda. Continue riding until arriving at Pedregal valley to overnight in a Hacienda at 3500m. Accommodation - Hacienda at Pedregal Valley (near the Cotopaxi National Park - or similar). Riding: 8 hours

Day 6
Enter the Cotopaxi National Park and ride towards the Sincholagua volcano making a large loop downhill to the valley where to stop for a snack before continuing to cross the different lava flows. Ascend north of Cotopaxi up to 4100m and the highest plains where to undertake the highest canter in the world! Ride close to herds of wild Berber horses that live in the park and are the descendants of the horses brought by the Spanish in the 16th century. Accommodation - Tambopaxi Refuge (or similar). Riding: 6+ hours

Day 7
Ride to Ruminahui continuing west to pass the highest point of the ride (4250m) on the edges of the rocks of the Ruminahui volcano. Continue riding towards the Machachi valley, as always, guarded by the volcano avenue. Cross the Machachi plaza, where horseman are always welcomed and pass the town of Aloag to arrive at Hacienda La Alegria for dinner and enjoy time in the hot tub reminiscing about the long journey in the mountains. Accommodation - Hacienda La Alegria (or similar). Riding: 5+ hours

Day 8
Depart after breakfast, transfer to airport.
Please note that accommodation may vary from the establishments listed according to availability.

Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Loop Ride - 12 days
Day 1-4 as Avenue of Volcanoes itinerary, and then:

Day 5
Ride to the west mountain range and through the valley toward Machachi. Stop at the Machachi market before continuing toward the Ruminahui and a stop at a Hacienda for a snack. Continue riding until reaching the Pedregal valley and stay overnight in a Hacienda at 3,500 meters. Accommodations Hacienda at Pedregal Valley (or similar). Riding 8 hours

Day 6
Venture into Cotopaxi National Park, heading towards the Sincholagua volcano before descending into the valley in a wide loop. After a short break, ride across ancient lava flows and ascend to the northern side of Cotopaxi, reaching an altitude of 4,100 meters. Here, there is an opportunity to experience one of the world's highest canters. Keep an eye out for herds of Berber wild horses, the descendants of those brought by the Spanish in the 16th century. Accommodation - Tambopaxi refuge. Riding: 6-7 hours

Day 7
Ride westward, reaching the highest point of the journey at 4,250 meters near the Ruminahui volcano, before descending into the lush Machachi Valley, framed by the Avenue of Volcanoes. Crossing the Machachi plaza, where horsemen are always warmly received, continue through the town of Aloag. Accommodation - Hacienda La Alegria. Riding: 5-6 hours

Day 8
The day begins with a one-hour drive south of the hacienda to meet the horses. Today’s ride traverses an ancient Inca trail, winding through dirt roads and paths that lead to Isinlivi. Take in breath-taking views from one valley to the next, where the landscape transitions from ‘paramo’ to an eroded terrain dotted with vibrant colours. In the distance, the eastern mountain range comes into view. After riding through several hills, the ride reaches the small village of Isinlivi, founded in 1857. Accommodation - lodge owned by a Dutch couple. Riding: 5 hours

Day 9
Begin the day by guiding the horses to a viewpoint overlooking the canyon, shaped by multiple eruptions of Quilotoa. From there, ascend to the breath taking Quilotoa Crater Lake. Along the way, pass through villages and along paths that showcase traditional agriculture practices dating back centuries, including the cultivation of lupins, potatoes, quinoa, and barley. Due to the volcanic pumice and arid soil, only a few people inhabit this region. Arrive at the edge of the Quilotoa Crater Lake, a 3-kilometer-wide caldera formed by the volcano's collapse 1,280 years ago. The lake's water shifts in colour with the changing light. Accommodation - the edge of the Quilotoa Crater Lake. Riding: 5 hours

Day 10
A long day of riding awaits, starting with the journey to Sigchos, once the final refuge of Inca general Ruminahui. After breakfast, head north along the ridge of Quilotoa Crater Lake, following high-altitude trails to the northwest. Along the way, pass small dairy farms and artisanal cheese makers, and pause to sample their products. In the afternoon, you'll reach Hacienda San Jose, a working dairy farm and guesthouse. While the horses graze in lush fields, unwind in the jacuzzi or sauna before enjoying dinner. Riding: 7 hours

Day 11
On the final day of riding, traverse dramatic landscapes, including steep ravines and rugged terrain. At 4,000 meters, cross several mountain ranges featuring forests, rocky summits, and eroded landscapes. Along the way, pause for a blueberry wine tasting at a small mountain operation before concluding the ride at the sacred Wingopana Rock. Transfer back to the hacienda for a farewell dinner and an overnight stay. Riding: 6 hours

Day 12
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight home or onward travel.

We can also arrange for extensions to this ride including trips to the Galapagos Islands and to the Amazon Rainforest. Please get in touch if you would like more information.

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Horses & Riding

Most horses have been bred on the farm from mixed Criollo (native South American), English Thoroughbred and Arabian stock, resulting in a near perfect combination of toughness, agility, calm temperament and "mountain sense".

Beginners and experienced riders alike have found them easy to ride, willing and good mannered. On the trail you will be given plenty of opportunity to canter. There is a range of tack available including North American style, English style, McClellan cavalry, Chillean and traditional Ecuadorian "Chagra" style with its intricate leather-work and saddle horn.


Rider requirements

This trail is for intermediate riders capable and in control at walk, trot and canter in varied terrain. There will also be some long days in the saddle (7+ hours).
There is assistance available to mount and dismount, some of the terrain will be rough and/or steep.

Minimum age 10 years old - riders must be strong and capable in the saddle and ready for the long days in the saddle at high altitude.

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 198 lb/90 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

Accommodation is a combination of overnight stays in highland haciendas and hostels. All meals feature international cuisine and Ecuadorian foods and wines. Rooms have private bathrooms. Luggage is transported for you.

Hacienda Alegria is owned by the host and guide for this trail. It is a family-run organic dairy farm and the hospitality of the Espinosa household is remarked upon by visitors who return year after year. Guests are welcomed with a roaring log fire in the sitting room and in the bedrooms when the nights are cold.

La Alegria can accommodate up to 24 people both in the farmhouse and a recently completed extension. The extension has been tastefully restored with solid cypress floors and beams and modern en-suite bathrooms with plenty of hot water and powerful showers. There are also split-level family rooms which sleep five in comfort. Patty and her staff provide full board. All meals are tailored for hungry travellers, riders and hikers, and combine delicious Ecuadorian and international cuisine. The visitors book contains many compliments to the chef!

Please note that accommodation may vary from the establishments listed according to availability.


Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Documents - Visa and Consulate Info

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures and requirements while travelling. Both visitors and residents must have a minimum of 6 months’ validity on their passport from the date of entry. This is a strict legal requirement from the Ecuadorean government. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you will be denied entry to Ecuador. All visitors to the Galapagos Islands should be ready to provide a copy of their hotel booking upon entry. National and foreign tourists must also present evidence of a return flight, as well as the Galapagos Transit Control Card, to be filled out online at least 24 hours before the flight. Travel health insurance is mandatory for foreign tourists. Passport and Visa requirements can change regularly depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/ecuador In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Ecuador.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/ecuador

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions

Climate Summary

The climate in the Andean highlands is temperate and relatively dry compared to the rainforest. Because of its location at the equator, Ecuador experiences little variation in daylight hours during the course of a year.
Through the trail, you will experience a diversity of geography and weather. Be prepared for a period of intense equatorial sun followed by the chill of the Andes’ wind—all within the space of a few hours. The locals say that the highlands experience all four seasons within the same day.

Climate Chart

Health

At Unicorn Trails, the health and safety of our customers is of paramount importance.

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Ecuador and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

Health (ride specific)

Please take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.

High altitude, e.g. in Quito (2800m) can affect some people's health. You should take sensible medical precautions and seek advice from your doctor before travelling.

Be aware of higher exposure to UV radiation. Since January 2020, the levels of UV radiation have significantly increased throughout Ecuador. You should use a high factor sunblock, wear long sleeved clothing and keep very well hydrated.

Electricity

In Ecuador the standard voltage is 120 V and the frequency is 60 Hz. You can use your electric appliances in Ecuador if the standard voltage in your country is in between 110 - 127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries). Manufacturers take small deviations (plus or minus 5%) into account.

Packing List

Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries, casual clothes, and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant.

Please note: Day temperatures can vary considerably in the mountains (18º C during the daytime, 0º C at night). Average temperatures will be in the region of 10ºC.

ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
• Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards (some locations can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)
• Riding boots designed for riding and walking
• Riding gloves
• Chaps
• At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best for anything, except western riding (Jeans)
• Long sleeved shirts
• Lightweight waterproof
• Water bottle
• Mobile phone

Ride specific:
- Insulated or Gore-Tex mountain parka for rain and wind (important)
- Cotton or wool, long sleeved or turtleneck shirts
- Heavy wool or fleece sweater or vest
- Trousers: Full length, wool, blend, pile or other warm pants.
- Light-weight (polypropylene) thermal underwear, top and bottom

Provided by hosts
Boots are available if your shoe size is 9 and a half US or less at Hacienda La Alegria

Programmes

Avenue of Volcanoes Trail - 10d / 9n programme with 8 or 9 riding days available on set dates.
Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Ride - 8d / 7n programme with 6 or 7 riding days on set dates.
Loop Cotopaxi & Quilotoa - 12d / 11n / 10 riding days
Private dates may be available for groups of 6 or more, please enquire.

Departure Dates

2025: Avenue of Volcanoes: 9 Jan; 13 Mar; 24 Jul; 4 Sep; 16 Oct
2025: Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas: 14 Feb; 9 May; 2 Jun; 15 Aug; 5 Dec
2025: Loop Cotopaxi & Quilotoa: 2 Jun; 4 Nov

Pricing
No single supplement is charged if the rider is willing to share with someone of the same sex, and a sharer can be found.


No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description £
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8double pp2,289
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8single supplement125
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8small group supplement 2 people125
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6double pp1,879
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6single supplement125
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6small group supplement 2 people125
2025 Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Loop 12d/11n10double pp2,859
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8double pp2,749
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8single supplement149
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8small group supplement 2 people149
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6double pp2,259
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6single supplement149
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6small group supplement 2 people149
2025 Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Loop 12d/11n10double pp3,435
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description US $
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8double pp2,909
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8single supplement155
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8small group supplement 2 people155
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6double pp2,389
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6single supplement155
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6small group supplement 2 people155
2025 Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Loop 12d/11n10double pp3,639
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description SEK
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8double pp31,339
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8single supplement1,679
2025 Avenue of Volcanoes10d/9n8small group supplement 2 people1,679
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6double pp25,745
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6single supplement1,679
2025 Cotopaxi Volcano and Haciendas Trail8d/7n6small group supplement 2 people1,679
2025 Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Loop 12d/11n10double pp39,175
Wildlife

Andean deer, spectacled bears, Andean fox and pumas, as well as a variety of birds and the majestic condor. In warmer ravines, you’ll also see colourful hummingbirds sipping nectar from a multitude of flowers. As we ride through the paramos, you will see the great alpaca and llama herds that roam at this altitude. Seeing these herds gallop together with Cotopaxi in the background is truly an amazing experience.

Other Country Information

Bordering the Pacific Ocean at the equator, Ecuador has a tropical climate in coastal regions, getting cooler inland. It is the smallest country in the rugged Andean highlands. The terrain consists of coastal plain (costa), inter-Andean central highlands (sierra), and a flat, rolling eastern jungle (oriente) and the Galapagos Islands. Ecuador is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world. The Galapagos Islands and the waters surrounding it are both World Heritage Sites and of vital ecological importance. Charles Darwins visits to The Galapogos played a vital role in the development of his ideas on evolution.

Advanced indigenous cultures flourished prior to the arrival of the Incas in the 15th century. The capital, Quito, was once the centre of the Inca Empire. Ecuador was subsequently conquested by the Spanish in 1534, finally gaining independance in 1830. Ecuador has retained an array of vibrant cultures and stunningly well preserved colonial architecture.

Ecuador is five hours behind GMT and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.

Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):
Quito Airport (UIO)
Transfer:
2025: return transfer from Quito airport is approximately $100pp return per car. (1-3 pax) Transfer time approximately 1 hour. Payable on site. (subject to change)
Flight Guide:
2025: London to Quito (UIO) return from £880pp (Season Dependent)
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