Horse Riding
Ecuador's sierra region offers numerous opportunities for horse riding , particularly at the many haciendas that have been converted into country inns, where riding has been a way of life for centuries. Riding up to the region's sweeping paramos framed by snow-capped volcanoes is undoubtedly a memorable experience, especially if you get an early start to catch the clear morning light and avoid the characteristic afternoon showers in the sierra. Ecuadorian horses are a very tough breed, capable of climbing steep slopes and trotting and cantering at high altitudes. Note, however, that they are all small and thin-looking, and not half as beautiful as the horses found in North America and Europe. Most haciendas and reputable tour companies provide healthy, well looked-after horses, but it's not unusual for cheaper outfits to take tourists out on neglected, overworked animals. If you sign up to a riding tour and your horse looks lame or ill, refuse to ride it and ask for another one. Also, be sure to check that the saddle is securely fitted, with the girth pulled tight, and take time to adjust your stirrups to the right length - they should be level with your ankles if you let your legs hang freely. Be warned that Ecuadorian riding outfits hardly ever provide protective hats. Two highly recommended dedicated riding operators are: the Green Horse Ranch, north of Quito (tel 02/523856, fax 504773, ranch@accessinter .net ), which offers one- to ten-day rides throughout the Sierra; and Ride Ecuador ( rideecuador@accessinter.net , 09/738221), run by a British woman who organizes riding holidays throughout Ecuador. Other outfits and guides are detailed throughout the text, including: Hacienda Cusin ; Hacienda Guachala ; Hacienda Zuleta ; Hostal Casa Nieves ; and Hosteria La Cienega .
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