Parque Jerusalem - Horseback Riding Guayllabamba - Ecuador

Parque Jerusalem (Jerusalén) lies within a protected dry forest (Bosque Protector Jerusalén)–the only such area in Ecuador's highlands–in the Guayllabamba Valley, 28 kilometers (17 mi) north of Quito. The 1,100-hectare park (2,718-ac) was created in 1989, to protect the area from human development, and sections of the park have undergone reforestation. Parque Jerusalem features arid soil and the valley experiences mild weather, with large fluctuations in daily temperatures. There are three types of forest in the park, including many medicinal plants. Common plants are labelled along footpaths, and there is a tree, the Quishar, that you can hug for luck. Parque Jerusalén is also home to 42 kinds of bird, including peregrine falcons, hummingbirds and giant sparrows, as well as 10 types of amphibians and reptiles. The park has excellent walking trails, including a new path for the blind, and you can fish for trout, go horseback riding, or take a informative guided tour by train (pulled by a converted tractor). The park also has a camping area, football pitches, tennis and basketball courts, and a swimming pool.

Location:
Near Quito, Guayllabamba, Ecuador

Horseback Riding Types:
Trail riding, horseback archery, dressage and showjumping

Getting There

Drive north on the Pan-American Highway and turn off at the Puélllaro-San José de Mina road, which has signs that will direct you to the park. Alternatively, take a bus from the northernmost Metrobus station, Ofelia, bound for Malchanguí. Ask to be let off at the park entrance.

Price Description:

$1 adults, $0.50 children, the elderly and disabled. Camping area $5 per night, per person.

Relative price: Budget

Open Hours from:8 a.m.

Open Hours to:Monday-Friday until 3 p.m., weekends and holidays until 4 p.m.

You Need to Bring:

Bring comfortable clothing, suitable footwear, sunblock and insect repellent.