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Trip

Ecuador

Mountain Biking

Trip Guided Ecuador, Mountain Biking Trip Package
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Experience the incredible terrain and rich culture of Ecuador on this 8-day mountain biking adventure. Ride through the heart of the Avenue of Volcanoes, including Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Chimborazo, descending all the way to the Amazon.
Mountain bike and explore the highlights of Ecuador, one of the most naturally striking and biodiverse countries on the planet. This one-of-a-kind trip is powered by our local partners at Activexpeditions.

After meeting in Quito, your adventure begins in the Andes biking the Pululahua reserve, one of the world’s only inhabited calderas, along colorful mountains and cloud forest. Explore Otavalo, Ecuador’s largest indigenous market, meet local artisans, and unwind at your hacienda accommodations. Follow the path of snow capped volcanoes south through Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world’s most famed peaks.

Continue south through the Ilinizas reserve and ride along the brilliant turquoise blue of Quilotoa’s crater lake. Witness the towering Chimborazo (over 20,000 feet) before descending to the mystical town of Baños. For the trip finale, ride Llanganates National Park and during 5,000+ feet of downhill, witness the transition from the rugged Andes to the lush, land of waterfalls as you approach the Amazon.

Please note: we have Women's specific departures available, please select that trip option if you prefer to join other women!

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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. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
  • 1
    Day number 1
    Arrive!

    Welcome to Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cultural capital of South America. This day is designed to be at your leisure, so you can acclimate, rest and explore the beautiful city of Quito on your own terms. Explore the colonial streets, chocolate shops and artisan markets before a trek up to El Panecillo for stunning panoramas of the entire town. If you feel like having a guided day tour to learn more about this Andean gem, no problem! We are more than happy to arrange an expert guide to help you learn more about the city and surrounding areas. Regroup at 6PM in the hotel’s lobby to meet your weeks guide, the rest of the group and hear an orientation of what’s in store for your coming adventure!

    Overnight: Wyndham Garden or similar
    Meals included: none
  • 2
    Day number 2
    Biking into the Pululahua Crater
    Distance: 13 miles
    Descent: 5479 feet
    Climb: 4708 feet

    During our first day adventure, we will go by car to the entrance of the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve where we will start biking on an old secondary dirt road surrounded by beautiful landscapes of colorful mountains. After descending for about two hours we will enter a lush forest. This area is generally cloudy as this is where the hot current coming from the Pacific reaches the cold altitudes of the sierra and condenses creating a hugely diverse ecosystem. We will have lunch at the roadside and then visit the Equator Solar Museum after which we will travel by car to the hotel.

    Overnight: Wyndham Garden or similar.
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
  • 3
    Day number 3
    Biking to Otavalo Market
    Distance: 13.6 miles
    Descent: 2572 feet
    Climb: 452 feet

    In the morning we will continue our biking expedition driving up to the foothills of Imbabura volcano. We will start descending on grass and dirt patched paths and roads that connect local indigenous people’s farms. Along the way, we will see corn and quinoa plantations--staples in the local diet.

    Once at the base of the volcano we will continue riding along the side of San Pablo Lake, and later head over to Peguche Falls. There we will visit an indigenous family of artisans who will teach us how they weave and make their clothing. Our final stop will be the Otavalo Market, the largest indigenous market in Ecuador, where you can spend some time shopping for unique and colorful souvenirs.

    Overnight: Wyndham Garden or similar.
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
  • 4
    Day number 4
    Biking Cotopaxi
    Distance: 17 miles
    Descent: 1722 feet
    Climb: 1669 feet

    After an early breakfast we will drive south down the Pan-American highway. Our ride will take place in Cotopaxi National Park named after one of the highest active volcanoes on earth, which at nineteen thousand feet, is the most beautiful volcano in Ecuador. We will bike next to the volcano’s base, on dirt roads and single tracks surrounded by an other-worldly landscape dotted by rocks strew about by the volcano during its last major eruption.

    For lunch we will picnic within views of Incan ruins and then depending on how the group feels will continue on biking around for a couple of hours longer.

    Overnight: Cuello de Luna or similar.
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
  • 5
    Day number 5
    Biking Quilotoa
    Distance: 16.7 miles
    Descent: 3897 feet
    Climb: 3061 feet

    In the morning we will travel to the nearby Ilinizas ecological reserve. This area is known for local art and we will have some time to visit some of the painting and handicraft galleries of the local people who dedicate themselves to their craft. At Quilotoa there is the option to enter into the crater hiking to take in the stunning views and infinite masterpiece of turquoises and blues. Later, we take an epic MTB ride around the rim of the magnificent crate lake. The first part of the ride is a single track that gives you 360 views of the reserve before descending on a narrow dirt road. Ending our day, we will have a picnic in the scenic and hilly town of San Pedro Guayama before driving back to the lodge.

    Overnight: La Andaluza or similar.
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
  • 6
    Day number 6
    Biking Chimborazo
    Distance: 15.7 miles
    Descent: 5551 feet
    Climb: 669 feet

    We will continue this amazing expedition driving south to the central Andes, passing Chimborazo Volcano. At over twenty thousand feet, Chimborazo is considered the highest peak in the world if measured from the center of the planet. We will take a short walk to the basecamp of the volcano at sixteen thousand feet and then start biking on an exclusive single track. Along the ride we will see wild vicunas; small relatives of the llama who make their home in the Andes and are very common at this reserve. We will have a picnic in front of the volcano and then drive to the town of Baños, a great place to go out to have a cocktail and dance salsa.

    Overnight: La Floresta or similar.
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
  • 7
    Day number 7
    Biking Llanganates
    Distance: 18.8 miles
    Descent: 8966 feet
    Climb: 4770 feet

    In the morning after breakfast we will go by car up the mountains of the Llanganates National Park. Legend has it there is a hidden Incan treasure in this area and although many explorers venture in trying to find it, it has yet to have been found. We will start biking on asphalt road a bit up the hill to warm up and then we will descend about five thousand feet. An impressive change from the heights of the majestic Andes to the entrance of the lush Amazon Basin. Afterwards we will visit Pailon del Diablo Waterfall so we can refresh a bit, have lunch and then drive to Quito.

    Overnight: Wyndham Garden or similar.
    Meals included: Breakfast and lunch.
  • 8
    Day number 8
    Departure

    Eat breakfast, purchase souvenirs or partake in any last minute events in conclusion to our week-long adventure. If you wish to stay longer, please don’t hesitate to ask. We can help you organize an extension trip to places you wish to spend more time or did not see during this week. Safe travels!

    Meals included: Breakfast

Trip Package Includes:

  • Experienced certified English-speaking guide
  • Private and comfortable land transportation
  • Accommodations for seven nights (based on double occupancy), including boutique hotels, ecolodges and haciendas.
  • Meals included: 7 breakfasts and 4 lunches
  • Water and snacks at all times
  • Water bottle
  • Biking gear rental: Trek X-caliber bike, certified helmets and gloves
  • ​All fees to reserves, national parks and museums

Trip Package Does Not Include:

  • International flights
  • Upgraded bike rental (Trek Top Fuel, $200 supplement)
  • 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
  • 20% off discount code at evo.com

Questions? Contact us!

Area Information
Cotopaxi National Park

An adventure travel trip to Ecuador is not complete without a visit to Cotopaxi National Park. Standing at 19,000 feet, Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and a spectacular landmark of the Cotopaxi National Park and surrounding area. The massive national park extends through three of Ecuador’s provinces and is home to three other volcanoes Rumiñahui, Quilindaña, and Antisana. Hikers and mountaineers alike can explore the glaciated slopes of Cotopaxi or trek along the many trails at its base. Limpiopungo Lagoon, a large lake at the base of the mountain, is a popular destination as its waters reflect the volcanoes perfectly. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for the wild horses that roam the park.

Llanganates National Park Llanganates National Park 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 itinerary is rated "intermediate"; a 5 out of 9 in terms of skill level. At a controlled speed and on mellow singletrack terrain, you are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand. You are comfortable and confident rolling over small obstacles (a couple inches high) like roots, rocks and small rollable drops (a couple inches high). On rare occasions you take your wheels off the ground intentionally. You are now becoming comfortable in anticipating terrain and shift gears accordingly and you are comfortable using both front and rear brakes when required.
  • 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 gear should I bring? Do you offer rentals?
    All gear is included. Activexpeditions always makes sure to have the best and most updated outdoor gear possible.
  • 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 $100 off the package price.
  • 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.
  • What is the minimum and maximum number of guests per trip?
    Minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 10. Trips usually average 8 people.
  • Is there a minimum age required for this trip?
    Yes, 12 years old.
  • When is the best time to go?
    Since Ecuador is on the equator, weather patterns are fairly consistent meaning it is a great place to travel all year round. The average temperature annually is 64°F (17.8°C). There are only really two seasons in the city: dry and wet. The dry season runs from June to September and the wet season is from October to May. In Ecuador the weather can vary greatly depending on which side of the Andes you are traveling to, so it is highly recommended to come ready for all kinds of weather. When they say “Ecuador, All in One Place” they mean it! The altitude determines the temperature and the higher you go, the colder it gets. The coastal lowlands in the western part of Ecuador and the Amazon are typically warm with temperatures in the region of 25 °C (77 °F). The weather in Quito is consistent with that of a subtropical highland climate. The average temperature during the day is 70 °F (21 °C), which generally falls to an average of 50 °F (10 °C) at night. The weather in the Andean Highlands tends to be cooler due to its high altitude, especially during the night. We recommend cool weather clothing and layers for activities and when roaming the town in the Andes.
  • 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 needed for this trip.
  • Do I need travel insurance?
    Travel insurance is mandatory and allows you to seek reimbursement if you are forced to cancel your trip for unforeseeable reasons, or if you need to cover medical help, emergency transport, theft and/or accidental damage while traveling. We recommend World Nomads.
Testimonials
Once again, Activexpedtion has managed to create an original, unique, and simply breath-taking tour; allowing you to mountain bike (and some sections, hike), near, on and down (!) some of the most beautiful volcanoes! While there are, for example, tours of Chimborazo, this tour is different because it combines the various (and very different) volcanoes in the area. Besides, the staff is super accommodating, and the owner Christian, an Ecuadorian, definitely knows his country and can provide you with interesting facts about nature, culture and the food. The food provided is also excellent, and the views while enjoying the food are to. Love chocho! Finally, this tour company focusses on responsible ecotourism, which I consider a great plus. The difficulty level is average, and I’d say doable for anyone looking for an adventure. For more experienced mountain bikers, there are some more technical parts that allow you to show off your skills!
Anabel - Netherlands
Trip Guest
We had an amazing experience! At the end of each day I thought that it was the best day but it somehow kept getting more amazing!! We 1st went to Quilotoa and hiked down to the crater, absolutely stunning. Then we went to Baños for the perfect bike ride down a mountain with a view of a volcano. The mountain bikes and gear were all in top condition. It was super safe and fun. Also one of my highlights...stopping for fresh fruits and homemade guacamole. Topping that day we continued to the Amazon and went canyoning in the jungle, learned to make chocolate and have a fun time hanging out with the two brothers who lived there. Rafting was probably my favorite activity. SO much fun and stunning views the whole day. Ended the trip with the most relaxing time at the hotsprings....couldn't have ended in a more perfect way.
Kristen C - USA
Trip Guest
This trip had everything we love for activities, food, and culture. We were able to hike, bike, whitewater raft, and go canyoning. The scenery was simply amazing everywhere we looked. We were able to try all kinds of local cuisine and stayed in a range of accommodations that were both comfortable and interesting. I definitely felt like we were exposed to the true Ecuadorian culture, while feeling safe every step of the way. This was our first time to South America as well as our first guided trip. One of my favorite parts was being surprised by little details along the way. We had no idea how much Ecuador had to offer.
Leanna Popp - USA
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