The hacienda is located an hour by car or bus from Quito, close enough for you to enjoy a full day of riding and return to your hotel the same day. We can arrange all transfers. The transfer will pick you up at 9:30 AM and bring you back at 5:00 PM.
Whether you are a total beginner or an experienced rider, a day out at La Alegria will introduce you to a side of Ecuador that few on the “tourist trail” get to see. The hacienda is surrounded by fabulous riding country, with cobbled tracks winding through lush farmland up to the rolling paramo (high grassland) and the rocky summit cones of the many extinct volcanoes that line both sides of the Machachi valley.
Our one-day programs include a horse ride from 2 to 5 hours depending on the guests preference. You will ride around the local farms or for the more adventurous an ascent of La Viudita (“The Widow”, 3760m), our “local” peak from which you can enjoy fine views of the “Avenue of the Volcanoes”. You will then enjoy lunch at the Hacienda. Our meals are a mix of local and international cuisine. Cooked with fresh and local ingredients. In the afternoon you can enjoy a small walk around the property or relax in front of the fireplace.
The ride can often be combined with a visit to one of the many beautiful haciendas which we are lucky to count as neighbors. We can usually tailor the itinerary to your requirements. We have horses suitable for both first-time and experienced riders. We are careful to match all riders with a horse suitable for their level of riding ability and experience. Before setting off you will be given time to get used to your horse and tack in the safety of our paddock and “round”. Hacienda La Alegria offers a quality riding experience. Many riding outfits in Ecuador do not do our fine equestrian tradition justice. At La Alegria you will ride well-behaved, willing and fit horses and will be fed and accommodated in style. Rider satisfaction is very important to us.
