The round-up is the most important annual event in the vast cattle ranches (‘haciendas’) of the Ecuadorian Andes. Dating back centuries, since the first Spanish settlers introduced cattle to the Andes, it involves the ‘chagras’ (Andean cowhands) riding their horses up into the mountains to round up the fighting bulls and herd them down into the corrals. It is an incredibly exciting riding experience for competent riders and gets the adrenalin flowing as you ride across steep and rough terrain surrounded by the most stunning scenery imaginable.

This ride offers a real insight into the local culture and tradition as the chagras show their horsemanship and lasso skills and it is a great experience to be part of thesee the camaraderie among the chagras working together in close proximity to these very feisty fighting bulls. The stunning location of the hacienda provides guests with the chance to see the wild horses that roam the area and the ‘Paramo’ (high Andean habitat) wildlife, including the unforgettable sight of the magnificent Andean condor soaring overhead.

The excitement of the roundup begins with the chagras arriving at the hacienda (where you will be staying) from neighbouring farms and the preparations in the corrals where the bulls will be branded and sorted. Then the chagras and guests head into the rolling hills, with the Andean peaks providing a fantastic backdrop for this unique experience.

Please note that this is an authentic bi-annual farming event and the exact itinerary can be altered by the farm owners. It is not an event staged for guests but a necessity in the hacienda farming calendar.Guests will be riding alongside the ‘chagras’ (cowhands) who will be rounding up fighting bulls, by nature a very aggressive breed of cattle. The work is tough and the animals are sometimes treated harshly. This challenging ride is for experienced, competent and confident riders only.