Horseback riding in Riobamba offers something few other adventure experiences can: the silence of the Andean highlands, open trails winding through the mountains, and Chimborazo peeking over the horizon at every turn. You don't need to be an expert rider. You just need to want to connect with nature in a way that no car or hiking trail can replicate.
From Hacienda Abraspungo , horseback riding excursions in Riobamba take place in the Cubillines area—a high-altitude moorland landscape just minutes from the hacienda, with open views of Ecuador's highest volcano. It is one of the most highly valued experiences for those visiting the central highlands.
This guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip well: the route, what's included, who it's ideal for, and how to book.
Los Cubillines: the setting for horseback riding in Riobamba
The Cubillines area is a group of volcanic hills in the southern part of Chimborazo province, known for its open páramo landscapes, rural trails, and direct views of Chimborazo on clear days. It's an environment that most visitors to Riobamba don't know—and one that those who discover it from horseback don't easily forget.
Los Cubillines doesn't have the crowds of Ecuador's more famous attractions. That's why riding its trails is a truly peaceful experience: no large groups, no city noise, just the sound of hooves on the damp earth of the páramo and the wind coming down from the snow-capped mountains.
Access from Hacienda Abraspungo includes vehicle transfer to the starting point of the parade, allowing you to arrive rested and without worrying about the logistics of the journey.
What are the horseback riding experiences like in Riobamba from Abraspungo?
The guided horseback ride led by the Cubillines lasts four hours in total, including round-trip transportation from the hacienda. The trail traverses rural páramo paths, with stops at viewpoints offering panoramic views of Chimborazo and the surrounding mountains.
The entire tour is led by ranch staff who are knowledgeable about the terrain and the horses. No prior riding experience is necessary—the guide adapts the pace to each participant's level, from those who have never ridden before to those with experience who want a more active ride.
What does the experience include?
The horseback riding tour in Riobamba from Hacienda Abraspungo includes everything you need to enjoy it without any surprises:
- Guided horseback riding in the Cubillines area with specialized staff
- Transportation from Hacienda Abraspungo to the starting point and back
- Snacks during the hike to keep your energy up on the mountain
The price is $58 plus tax per person , with a minimum of two participants. The activity is subject to availability and weather conditions—on days of heavy rain or dense fog, the guide may adjust the route or reschedule to ensure safety.
Who are the horseback riding tours in Riobamba for?
Horseback riding in Riobamba is designed for a wide range of visitors. It's not an activity exclusively for experienced riders—it's an experience of nature and scenery that adapts to every participant.
| Profile | Why it's ideal |
|---|---|
| Couples | The moorland landscape and the intimacy of the route create an atmosphere that is difficult to replicate in any other activity |
| Families with children | The ranch also offers horses for children on the property — a perfect introduction before the full horseback ride |
| Photography lovers | Chimborazo viewed from Los Cubillines on horseback offers vistas that cannot be obtained from any other accessible point |
| Travelers with no riding experience | The guide adapts the pace and basic instruction is included in the experience |
In all cases, what makes horseback riding in Riobamba special is the setting. Los Cubillines is an authentic landscape of the Ecuadorian highlands—without massive tourist infrastructure, without crowds. Just Andean nature in its purest form.
What to bring for horseback riding in Riobamba
Proper preparation makes all the difference between a comfortable ride and an experience that ends prematurely. Here are some basic recommendations for the Cubillines area:
- Warm clothing: the Cubillines moorland is between 3,000 and 3,500 meters above sea level. The temperature can drop below 10°C, especially with wind. A waterproof jacket is essential.
- Long pants: Trekking pants or thick jeans are ideal. Avoid shorts or very tight clothing that could cause chafing during the hike.
- Closed shoes with a heel: any boot or closed shoe with some heeling works well. Avoid sandals or very soft slippers.
- Sunscreen: UV radiation in the highlands is high even on cloudy days. SPF 30 or higher.
Water and snacks are included in the experience. You don't need to bring extra food for a four-hour horseback ride.
Horseback riding in Riobamba and Chimborazo: combining two experiences in one day
One of the most complete ways to take advantage of a stay at Hacienda Abraspungo is to combine horseback riding in Riobamba with an excursion to the Chimborazo Volcano on the same day or on consecutive days.
The most common plan for those with two days available is to dedicate the first day to Chimborazo—an early departure to the first refuge, at 4,800 meters above sea level—and the second to horseback riding through the Cubillines . This combines two very different experiences: the extreme altitude of the volcano and the warmth of the páramo landscape on horseback.
For those who only have one day, the four-hour horseback ride in the Cubillines is enough to get a complete picture of the Andean environment of the Chimborazo province — without the physical demand of climbing the volcano.
How to get to Hacienda Abraspungo for horseback riding
Hacienda Abraspungo is located at Km 3.5 on the Riobamba–Guano road , 3.5 km from the city's historic center. From there, transportation to Los Cubillines is included in the experience—no need for your own vehicle or to know the route.
These are the time references from the main cities of Ecuador:
| City of origin | Time until the hacienda | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Quito | 3 hours | Pan-American Highway South |
| Guayaquil | 3.5 hours | Riobamba–Guayaquil Road |
| Ambato | 45 minutes | Pan-American Highway South |
| Basin | 3 hours | Pan-American Highway North |
The hacienda has free parking for private vehicles. For those traveling by bus, Riobamba has a bus terminal with connections from all major cities in the country.
Who are the horseback riding tours in Riobamba for, and when is the best time to do them?
The dry season in the highlands—between June and September—is the best time for horseback riding in Riobamba. The days are clearer, the trails are drier, and the visibility of Chimborazo from Los Cubillines is greater. However, the experience is available year-round, with adjustments made depending on the day's conditions.
It's best to book at least 48 hours in advance to confirm guide and horse availability. During long weekends—Easter, the Battle of Pichincha, summer holidays—demand is high, so it's advisable to book even further in advance.
To book, write directly to the hacienda via WhatsApp at +593 997 683 450 or check availability at haciendaabraspungo.com/experiencias .
Frequently asked questions about horseback riding in Riobamba
Is prior experience needed for horseback riding in Riobamba?
No. Horseback riding tours in Riobamba from Hacienda Abraspungo are designed for all levels. The guide gives basic instructions at the beginning and adjusts the pace of the ride according to each participant's experience.
How long do the horseback riding tours last in Riobamba?
The entire experience lasts four hours, including the transfer from the hacienda to Los Cubillines and back. The horseback riding time is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
How much do horseback riding tours cost in Riobamba?
The price is $58 plus tax per person, with a minimum of two participants. The price includes a guide, transportation from the hacienda, and snacks during the tour.
Can children participate in the horseback riding?
Yes, with adult supervision. For younger children, Hacienda Abraspungo also offers children's horses on the property for $10 plus tax per person — a more affordable option for those taking their first steps in horseback riding.
How to book horseback riding tours in Riobamba from Hacienda Abraspungo?
Contact us via WhatsApp at +593 997 683 450 or by email at [email protected] . We recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance to guarantee availability.