The Hummingbird Trail - (4 days) (also 5 days possible)
From Pululahua Volcano to Bellavista Bird Lodge
Day 1:
Transport from Quito to the Green Horse Ranch inside the ancient crater and National Reserve Pululahua with its big selection of beautiful sceneries. Once on our horses, we enter a tropical climate with a lot of bamboo, sugar cane and banana trees along the way, until we start climbing gently but continually in order to leave the crater to the south-west. On our trail up the mountain, we only come across a few small farmhouses, where the highland farmers scratch a meagre income from the steep, infertile land beside the forest. Accommodation in a more than 300 years old beautiful colonial Hacienda and a hot evening meal await us, next to the volcanic springs of El Cachaco
Bring your bathing dress for the mineral water Jacuzzi!
Day 2:
We'll be riding across the Valley of Nono, along green, hilly pastures, passing several stately farms, where we can observe fighting bulls and flower crop for exportation, getting a good impression about present and past of the country. Some extensive canters along fields and pastures make our way shorter this time. This picturesque valley is also the home and breading place of many beautiful horses. Drawing closer to Pichincha volcano, which towers above us at almost 4800 m, we begin our trek along the Northwest side to the tiny, colonial village of Nono, where rustical country-style-suits with a beautiful view over the valley await us. Next to a hot chimney fire, the farmer’s family might tell us some interesting stories about people and lifestyles and spoil us with the chefs cuisine.
Day 3:
Today we leave Nono, climbing up to the edge of the paramo grassland, catching views on the ashy slopes of Pichincha Volcano and the surrounding valleys. After crossing a ridge that divides the Interandean Valley from the Pacific Andean slopes, we start heading downhill into a lush green region of virgin forests studded with waterfalls toward the fishing resort of Tandayapa. Once back on the road, we say goodbye to the horses and shall meet our accompanying vehicle that brings us up the rest of way to Bellavista nature reserve, where hundreds of hummingbirds have found their home. We'll be welcomed into a comfortable lodge with hot showers and delicious, wholesome food. From the balcony of our shared room, we can enjoy a breath-taking view far over the cloud forest and listen to the sound of exotic birds.
Hike and Ride - (4 days)
Prices
Minimum 2 Passengers.
For all tours prices include
- transport from and to Quito
- an accompanying provisions vehicle for the whole tour
- transportation of the horses
- full catering
- accommodation in farms, hotels, reserve lodges and tents
- your horse and its equipment
- the tour guide and helpers
- entrance to national parks, pools and other fees
- tours of the natural reserves
- wellington boots
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