Cotopaxi National Park Horseback Riding (LFHB-02)

	Duration: 2 days Departing: Daily
	Itinerary Day 1 Cotopaxi National Park Day 2 Horse back riding at the Cotopaxi National Park.
	Package Descriptions

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Cotopaxi National Park

After breakfast you will visit The Cotopaxi National Park. Upon arriving at the Park, we will visit the interpretation center where descriptions of the local flora and fauna as well as the history of the major eruptions of the world’s highest active volcano are provided. From the parking lot, we will begin climbing up to the first refuge (4,800 m /15,744 ft.). After our descent, we continue the visit to Limpiopungo Lake. The exciting journey continues in our well-equipped vehicle, amidst streams and large rocks through El Pedregal valley where volcanic remains are still evident. We pass the Pucará de Salitre, a strategic military fortress of the old Inca Empire; the drive will then end at the farmhouse in Hacienda El Porvenir, where a delicious supper will be ready for us. Accommodation in the hacienda (B-L-D)

Day 2 - Horseback riding and hiking

The next day after a delicious breakfast, a brief lesson will be given in the morning at Hacienda El Porvenir. They will teach you how to ride and get acquainted with the horses as needed. Wearing the typical “Chagra” attire, we will begin a visit to the foothills of Rumiñahui volcano, riding side by side with herds of wild horses and bulls. Our native guides will share their knowledge in medicinal plants. The ride will take about 4 hours and will provide an opportunity to enjoy the most breathtaking views of the Ecuadorian Andes and valleys, wildlife and will even allow you to ride at full speed in open pastures if desired. A delicious lunch of local dishes will be waiting for us at the farmhouse. In the afternoon we will reach Hacienda Santa Rita Private Reserve on the foothills of Pasochoa volcano where we will walk through the native Andean forest. After the hike, we will begin our return to Quito. (B - L)