Ecuador is one of the world's great rose growers, and the highlands around Quito are where many of those roses begin. The day trip linked here combines a visit to a rose farm with a horseback ride, giving you both the flower story and the countryside. It is a private tour, which means it is arranged around your group and your pace, with a guide taking care of the plan from the moment you are collected. The Andean climate is why the industry thrives here. High altitude, strong equatorial light and cool nights produce roses with long stems, large heads and unusually vivid colours, and they are shipped around the world, especially around Valentine's Day. On a farm visit you can see how the blooms are grown, cut, graded and packed, which is surprisingly fascinating even for people who rarely think about flowers. The ride then lets you enjoy the rural scenery that surrounds the farms.
What to expect
Pick-up in Quito, a drive into the highlands, a guided walk through the greenhouses or packing areas, and then a gentle ride on horseback through fields and trails. Because the tour is private, the order and the timing are flexible, and you can usually adjust the pace for children or less confident riders. Confirm the route, the length of the ride and whether lunch is included when you book.
Why choose it
If you want a relaxed day outside the city that is not a hike or a long drive to a volcano, this is a good option. It suits couples, families and small groups of friends, and it is a particularly memorable choice around Valentine's Day or Mother's Day, when the farms are at their busiest.
If you are visiting at other times of year, the flowers are still in production, though the intensity of activity varies with the season. Tips: wear long trousers and closed shoes for the ride, plus layers, because it can be cool in the morning and sunny at midday. Bring sun protection, a camera and a little cash for small purchases.
Tell the guide about your riding experience and any allergies, especially to pollen, as greenhouses can be intense. Ask whether you can take a bouquet home, because many farms sell flowers at a fraction of the price you would pay abroad.
What to expect
The experience
A private day trip combining a rose farm visit with a horseback ride in the highlands.
Best time
A morning start; flower activity peaks around Valentine's Day and Mother's Day.
How long
A full day including transfers.
Tips
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, mention pollen allergies and tell the guide your riding experience.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples and small groups who want a gentle, scenic countryside day.
- Families
- Easy to adapt for children on a private tour; check age limits for riding.
- Couples
- Romantic and relaxed, especially around Valentine's Day.
- Pair with
- A quiet dinner in the Old Town.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is it private?+
Yes, this is a private day trip, so the plan is arranged around your group.
Do I need riding experience?+
Not usually. Tell the guide your level and they can match the horse and pace.
Can I buy roses?+
Many farms sell flowers. Ask your guide, and check any import rules for your return journey.
When are the farms busiest?+
Around Valentine's Day and Mother's Day, but they operate year round.
What should I wear?+
Layers, long trousers, closed shoes, sun protection and a rain jacket.
