LTE- QTP013
COTOPAXI HORSEBACK ADVENTURE
(2 Days, any day)

Day 1.
Quito – Cotopaxi – Hacienda El Porvenir:
Upon arrival at Cotopaxi National Park, we will visit the interpretation center where descriptions of the local flora and fauna as well as a history of the major eruptions from the worlds highest active volcano are provided. From the parking lot, we will begin climbing up to the refuge where we will rest and enjoy a snack. Back to the parking lot, a decision will be made as to whether we down quickly on mountain bikes to Limpiopungo Lake, or continue the visit in a 4x4 jeep. The exciting journey will continue, whether by bike or in a jeep, amidst streams and large rocks through El Pedregal valley where the remains of large mud and lava flows that came down from the volcano during ancient eruptions are still evident. We pass the Pucara de Salitre, a strategic military fortress of the old Inca Empire, and the drive ends at the farmhouse in Hacienda El Porvenir, where a delicious dinner will be ready for us.L, D

Day 2.
Hacienda El Porvenir – Quito:
A brief lecture will be given in the morning to teach us how to ride and get acquainted with the horses.  Wearing the typical "chagra" attire, we will begin a visit to the foothills of the Rumiñahui volcano, riding side by side with herds of wild horses and brave bulls and, if luck is on our side, perhaps we will catch a glimpse of the majestic condor. We will reach the base of the dormant volcano peaks - a foreboding site - and while we enjoy a warm cup of "zunfo" tea, we will learn about the meaning of the word "Rumiñahui."  Returning by the lowermost route, we will pass the impressive Chusig cave and the valley known as Condor Machai, or refuge of the condor. A delicious lunch consisting of local dishes will be waiting for us at the farmhouse. In the afternoon we will go down to Santa Rita "hacienda" on the foothills of Pasochoa volcano where we will walk along paths through the native Andean forest. After a two or three hour trek, we will reach the place where we will begin our return to Quito.  B, L Duration: 2 days, 1 nightActivity Level: Easy to ModerateWhat to bring: Comfortable-warm clothing.

Includes:
Transportation, English speaking guide,  full biking equipment(front suspension mountain bike, helmet, elbow and knee pads, gloves), mechanical assistance, full riding equipment(poncho, chaps, wool hat), nice gentle horses, 1 night stay at local hacienda El Porvenir or similar, meals as listed in itinerary(B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner).

Does Not Include:
Cotopaxi park entrance fee $10