An essential part of the old hacienda way of life, horseback riding is becoming an increasingly popular pastime with guests of the hacienda-hotels which ring Quito. And since many guests are interested in visiting more than one hacienda, the owners and managers are developing a system whereby you can ride from one to another, while arrangements are made to transport your luggage. "Every day another horse, every day another hacienda" is the motto of this system.

In the Cotopaxi area, several haciendas including La Carriona, La Alegría, Volcanoland and Yanahurco have developed various circuits and routes staying at their places. It’s a wonderful way to see the countryside and to meet the people of rural Ecuador. For more information on this “Avenue of the Volcanoes” ride, see: Volcano Ride

Note, there is an amazing horse round-up in northern Cotopaxi National Park at Hacienda Yanahurco. In 2007, this takes place from 31st March. For more information, see: Rodeos. Another comfortable base in Cotopaxi, with good horseriding, is Hacienda San Agustín de Callo: www.incahacienda.com

In the Otavalo area, rides can be arranged from Haciendas Cusín, Pinsaquí and Zuleta, as well as Casa Mojanda. A good all-round operator for experienced riders, ranging from short tours to nine-day expeditions, is Ride Andes: www.rideandes.com.