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Trip

Ecuador

Biking

Trip Ecuador Advanced MTB
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Fast, flowy singletrack, technical terrain, and epic descents are what this 9-day adventure is all about. Experience Ecuador’s trails and wonder how MTB could still be so undiscovered in this incredible country.
Take an all-mountain mountain biking tour from the Andes, to the cloud forest, to the sunny coast of Ecuador. Ride your heart out, stay in local haciendas, and enjoy the hospitality of some of the world’s kindest people. This adventure is powered by our local partners at Activexpedition.

After an arrival day in Quito, head northwest of the capital, deeper into the Andes. Your adventure begins with one big drop and some fun, bumpy terrain on the Frog’s Trail. Next up, experience the cloudforest of the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve - named for a volcano with an unusually inhabited caldera. Ride the Infiernillo Trail as it drops from the sierra into the forest (with a couple of climbs), as well as long, high desert descents on El Chota Trail.

Following the Avenue of Volcanoes south, our next destination is Cotopaxi National Park, named for Ecuador’s most iconic and one of the highest active volcanoes on Earth. Ride sandy singletrack through other-worldly lava rock fields on Cotopaxi Trail, and look out over Incan ruins. Going south, we’ll head toward the mighty Chimborazo (20,564 feet) and ride the high alpine rock and sand of Los Hieleros Trail with its astounding panoramic vistas. Last and hands down the best is Mama Rumi, one of South America’s best MTB trails. Originally carved by the ancient Inca, follow this trail on a 6,500 foot mostly downhill ride characterized by singletrack, lots of bobsled sections, and natural jumps. If you’re an advanced rider and in search of a true adventure, this trip is just right for you.
 

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Itinerary
Itinerary
Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides due to weather or safety reasons.
  • 1
    Day number 1
    Arrival

    Welcome to Ecuador! There are no activities planned for your first day so you can explore the beautiful capital city of Quito at your own pace. If you feel like having a guided day tour (additional cost would apply), please let us know and we’re happy to accommodate. Meet at 6:00pm in the hotel lobby to meet your guide and the rest of the group as well as learn about what’s in store for the days ahead!

    Overnight: Dann Carlton or similar
    Meals included: none
  • 2
    Day number 2
    Valle De la Muerte
    Distance: 22.9 miles
    Descent: 4163 feet
    Climb: 2543 feet

    Today we will drive up to the Pichincha volcano at 15.000 feet, along the way we will have beautiful views of Andean farms near Lloa village, once at the basecamp of this reserve we will walk our bikes to the summit of this Active Volcano, on clear days is possible to see the crater, after a safety talk we will start riding one of the most epic single tracks of this region, the first part will be on sand and then down the grassland of the Andean paramo, later we continue connecting the DH trails of the Slopes of Teleferico trails into the forest and then ending in the City of Quito.

    Overnight: Dann Carlton
    Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
  • 3
    Day number 3
    The Infiernillo Trail
    Distance: 22.9 miles
    Descent: 4163 feet
    Climb: 2543 feet

    From bed to bike our ride starts in the morning from our hotel near the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve. Pululahua is one of the few calderas in the world where people reside. The area is generally cloudy as this is where the hot current from the pacific reaches the cold altitude of the sierra creating a hugely biodiverse ecosystem. We pedal alongside the breeze leisurely downwards on single track and into a rich green forest. Ending with a beautiful view of the river valley, we will continue down a dirt road to meet up with our transport to the lodge.

    Overnight: Yellow Guest House or similiar
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
  • 4
    Day number 4
    El Chota Trail
    Distance: 9.7 miles
    Descent: 3164 feet
    Climb: 0 feet

    Fueling up with a hearty breakfast, we will drive north on the Pan-American Highway passing Ibarra and the stunning Imbabura volcano. Our day’s adventure begins near Laguna Yahuarcocha on the El Chota trail through rocky terrain, narrow passes, and dry forest. The valley where the ride will take place is generally breezy and dry as the mountain ranges that line its sides act as a shield for oncoming storms. After hours of twists, turns, bumps, and loads of adrenaline we will head back to the hacienda by car to unwind. For those interested in shopping for souvenirs to take home, our driver is readily available to take guests to the Otavalo Market, located a mere 10 minutes from the hacienda.

    Overnight: Cuello de Luna or similar
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 5
    Hot Springs and Spa

    Today is to relax and recover, after an scenic drive over the estern range of the Andes we will arrive to Papallacta, at the hots prings you can take a refreshing dip into varying pools of hot a cold volcanic waters, and reinvigorate your body, mind, and soul. If you so choose there are also optional services offered at the facility such as massages and facials. Within the Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve, where the springs reside, there are also many winding trails to explore for those of you who prefer to be more active. Along the trails it is possible to see orchids, hummingbirds and other varying types of flora and fauna. In the afternoon we will head towards Cotopaxi province to spend the night.

    Overnight: Hato Verde or similiar
    Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
  • 6
    Day number 6
    Cotopaxi Trail
    Distance: 22.4 miles
    Descent: 2813 feet
    Climb: 723 feet

    After an early rise we will drive southbound on the Route of Volcanoes. Today’s adventure will take place in Cotopaxi National Park named after one of the highest active volcanoes on earth. Standing at a massive 19,347, Cotopaxi is easily one of the most beautiful volcanoes in Ecuador. We will bike over its foothills, on sandy singletrack surrounded by an other-worldly landscape, with rocks strewn from the last major eruption. For lunch we will picnic within views of Incan ruins and then, depending on how the group feels, will keep riding around for a couple of hours longer.

    Overnight: La Andaluza Hacienda or similar
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
  • 7
    Day number 7
    Los Hieleros Trail
    Distance: 14.1 miles
    Descent: 5358 feet
    Climb: 613 feet

    Higher we go southbound to the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve. Chimborazo is the tallest volcano in the country as well as the closest point to the sun if measured from the center of the earth. Warming up with a trek, we ascend up from the first basecamp at 16.000 ft (4.800m), to the second basecamp at almost 17,000 feet (5.000m). Now that we’re warmed up, our day of biking begins. Named after the dying tradition of collecting ice from the glaciers of Chimborazo, the Hieleros Trail makes its way through sandy and rocky terrain and into the Polylepis forest ending near the city of Guaranda. The snowy peaks, multi-colored paths of volcanic sediment, and endless sea of blue Ecuadorian sky on this ride make it a real treat for those seeking to be left breathless.

    Overnight: El Angel Hotel
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 8
    Day number 8
    Mama Rumi Trail
    Distance: 7.1 miles
    Descent: 6368 feet
    Climb: 0 feet

    They say to save the best for last and our last ride of this adventure surely checks that box! Mama Rumi Trail is considered one of the top MTB trails in South America and is home to the world-renowned Mami Rumi Downhill Race— a heart-pumping, wild ride filled with switchbacks from the high and breezy Andes mountains down to the humid banana plantations of the coast. This trail follows a centuries old Incan footpath used to transport goods and even the local hooch to avoid taxation. Spend the day riding the expanse of the trail ending in between the banana trees on our final full day of the trip.

    Overnight: Dann Carlton or similar
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 9
    Day number 9
    Departure

    Say goodbye to new friends, pack up, and head out. As you depart we thank you and wish you safe travels! If you wish to continue exploring more of Ecuador, we can help you organize an extension trip to places you did not see during this trip. Hasta luego!

    Meals included: Breakfast

Trip Package Includes:

  • Experienced certified English-speaking guide
  • Private and comfortable land transportation
  • Accommodations for eight nights (based on double occupancy), including boutique hotels, ecolodges and haciendas.
  • Meals included: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
  • Water and snacks at all times
  • Water bottle
  • Biking gear rental: 2020 full suspension Trek Fuel EX5 with Shimano SLX brakes, helmets, pads and gloves
  • ​All fees to reserves and museums
  • 20% off discount code at evo.com

Trip Package Does Not Include:

  • International flights
  • Airport transfers (we will meet at the hotel lobby in Quito on Day 1)
  • Single supplement
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, we recommend World Nomads)
  • Meals not described in the itinerary 
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guides and drivers
 

Questions? Contact us!

Area Information
Ecuador

Along South America’s northwest coast lies beautiful Ecuador, a country the size of Nevada yet one of the most biodiverse places in the world. From the rugged, snow-capped highlands of the Andes to the lush Amazon jungle, the array of wildlife and landscapes here are spectacular and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are plentiful. Ecuador is equally rich and diverse in its cultural heritage, with 14 Indigenous nationalities as well as deep-rooted African and European influences that make for colorful markets, traditional villages, and cosmopolitan cities. This adventure takes us to a select handful of wild places, iconic national parks and reserves, and diamond-in-the-rough trails.

Mama Rumi Trail Mama Rumi Trail Read More Activexpedition Activexpedition Read More
FAQ
FAQ
  • Are departures guaranteed?
    There is a minimum of 2 people required per departure date, with each trip departing on a Sunday. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation.
  • What if I need to cancel?
    evoTrip upholds Activexpeditions policies regarding cancellation. Guests have: - 72 hours from booking to cancel with no fee. - 3 days after the booking - 89 days before the trip a $100USD cancellation fee per person would be charged. - 89 to 60 days before departure, 20% of the total price of the trip will be applied. - 59 to 30 days before departure, 50% of the total price of the trip will be charged. - 29 days or fewer, 100% of the trip cost will be forfeited. There may be additional fees associated with cancelling within the stated periods by hotel and transport providers. Clients are responsible for any cancellation fees incurred. Travel insurance is mandatory. For any unexpected event that may affect your trip, guests are strongly recommended to hire insurance. *Flight tickets included in a tour or purchased by Activexpedition upon client request are non-refundable.
  • What if I need to postpone my trip?
    Available postponement of traveling dates depends upon following conditions: - You may only request changing the date of your trip until 60 days before your departure. - New departure date cannot be over a year from old departure date. - Activexpedition will propose the available shared departures options.
  • What are the accommodations like?
    Accommodation is provided at charming eco-lodges and colonial Haciendas. Eco-lodges are boutique accommodations designed to have the least possible impact on the natural environment in which it is situated. Haciendas are historical farm houses or Ecuadorian estates that date back to the 16th century and have been renovated into first class hotels, lodges and inns. Most of the haciendas are family-run and offer charming amenities, historic relics, traditional home-cooking and cozy, intimate settings. Haciendas are a major part of Ecuadorian culture and a highlight of the region.
  • Is there a Single Supplement if I am a solo traveler? Can I book my own room?
    Generally a single supplement fee is not incurred, as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room. If you prefer not to share and have your own room, then there will be an associated fee equal to that of the complete cost of accommodation.
  • What skill/experience level is required for this trip?
    This trip is a challenging all-mountain experience that includes technical trail riding, therefore it is recommended for advanced riders and up. The whole trip involves a mix of trails and roads, some on dirt, rocks, grass and gravel. Every ride is about 20 miles, and the elevation gain can be 1000 feet a day, if people want to do more elevation gain, our guides will be happy to do longer rides. There will always be transport support close to the trails, and guides will be in contact with the driver by radio.
  • What are the guides like?
    All guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; meaning they have a degree in guiding, with top-notch skills and knowledge. Each guide has many years of leading experience, including additional courses taken for other outdoor activities and International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, all guides are extremely personable and strive to deliver exceptional travel experiences for each guest.
  • What is the minimum and maximum number of guests per trip?
    Minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8.
  • What gear should I bring?
    All biking gear is included (bike, helmets, gloves, pads). Activexpeditions always makes sure to have top of the line gear from well-known and reputable international brands as we understand that the best gear gives extra confidence to our riders. For biking we use Trek Top Fuel, and for protection we use Bontrager and Fox.
  • What if I’d like to bring my own bike? Will I get a discount?
    No problem! If you’d like to bring your own bike, we will take $200 off the package price.
  • How do you address sustainability on your trips?
    We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we are able to teach our guests about the rich culture Ecuador, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
  • When and how do I meet up with the group?
    Please be ready to meet the group on Day 1 at 6 PM in the hotel lobby.
  • What will the food be like?
    Pork, chicken, beef, and cuy (guinea pig) are really popular in the Andean regions of Ecuador, and are served with a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods, especially rice, corn, and potatoes. A popular street food is hornado (roasted pig), which is often served with llapingacho (a pan seared potato ball). Some examples of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine generally include Ecuadorian ceviche (shrimp, lime and corn), hearty quinoa soups, patacones (unripe plantains fried in oil), llapingachos (fried potato pancakes), and seco de chivo (a type of stew made from goat). A wide variety of fresh fruits are available, particularly at lower altitudes, including granadilla, passionfruit, naranjilla and several types of bananas. Another local favorite are fresh juices, including the tree tomato or a colada morada (a traditional Ecuadorian drink made with fruits, spices, and purple corn flour).
  • Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
    As Ecuador has a great variety of cuisine and gastronomy, vegetarians, vegans and gluten free options are widely available and welcome. If you have any allergies or food restrictions, please inform Activexpeditions prior to your departure. Our guides are always ready to coordinate with chefs and restaurants for substitute meals and allergy needs.
  • Is there a minimum age required for this trip?
    Yes, 12 years old.
  • What is transportation like?
    Driving time can take more than expected in Ecuador, as it is a small country with many people and consists of both dirt and paved roads. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group.
  • Do I need a Visa, Passport and Vaccinations?
    A valid passport for at least six months past the planned date of departure is required. Make sure you check your passport validity and expiration date prior to travel. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador and travelers can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa. However, sanctions including fines and deportation can occur if you stay past this time period. No vaccinations are required for this trip, however we recommend checking with your doctor prior to travel.
  • What about Covid-19?
    We are optimistic that travel will continue to become more plausible with the advent of Covid-19 vaccines, but also understand that there is uncertainty about how quickly these will become widely available to all groups both in the US and abroad. We strongly suggest checking the CDC and WHO for the latest public health guidelines, and if you choose to travel while the pandemic is still underway, that you adhere to recommended health & safety measures before, during, and after your trip. Please note that currently Ecuador requires proof of a negative Covid-19 test result (within 72 hours of departure) in order to enter the country, and that the US currently requires proof of negative Covid-19 test result (within 72 hours of return) in order to re-enter the country.
Testimonials
I had such an amazing time on these great trails with new and old friends! I can't wait to come back for more! Thank you so much for an epic trip Activexpedition!
Aimee
Trip Guest
This was honestly probably the best trip I’ve ever been on! I can’t stress enough how caring Christian and all of the staff are. They are very attentive to individual needs, stress safety over all, and ensure that each person has an enjoyable time. The land, the people, the food, the guides, the activities - all beautiful, unique, and mind-blowing.
Josh
Trip Guest

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