The first part of the ride includes acclimatization at the Hacienda and the cloud forest. At the cloud forest you will enter a completely different environment and see an exciting change in the surrounding vegetation; from a lush native tundra landscape of the high attitude to an impressive sub-tropical vegetation. Here, nestled deep in the mystical cloud forest, learn about medicinal plants and trees that are native to the area, and be regaled by tales of the remote life of living in the Cloud Forest.
Around the cosy fireplace of the hacienda, you will reminisce about the day’s events and discuss local traditions, especially those related to the chagras. You will also talk about the itinerary for the rest of the trip and prepare for what is to come.
After acclimatization at the hacienda as well as riding to the cloud forest you will be prepared for the second part of the ride and you shall start your journey towards the mighty Cotopaxi. After you have prepared for the main part of the ride, you shall start towards the mighty Cotopaxi. You will visit the colourful animal and produce market of Machachi on your way where you can enjoy the unique beauty of an Andean market as well as have the opportunity to buy any handicraft or leather-work you find interesting. You will then continue the trip to Cotopaxi, the tallest active volcano in the world (5,987m). Cotopaxi’s impressively symmetric cone will guide you past its surrounding hills. You will ride around the massive rocks of Rumiñahui into the plains near Cotopaxi.
As you ride through the Andes Mountains, you will experience a diversity of geography and weather. Be prepared for a period of intense equatorial sun followed by chill Andes’ wind—all within the space of a few hours. The locals say that the highlands experience all four seasons within the same day. As you ride through the paramos, you will see the great llama used for packing.
Long after your return to the Hacienda and the end of your journey, the memories of this rugged but beautiful world will linger as a lifetime ride.
