Cycling Journey Ecuadorian Andes

No scheduled activities are planned for your first day, giving you the freedom to explore Quito at your own pace. Wander through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or visit local markets and museums to get a feel for the city’s vibrant culture. If you’d like a deeper experience, guided city tours are available at an additional cost and offer insights into Quito’s rich history and architecture. In the evening, please join us for a welcome meeting at 18:00 in the hotel lobby. This will be an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travelers, and to review the itinerary and important details for the days ahead.

Today marks the true start of our Andean cycling adventure! We begin with a visit to Quitsato, an extraordinary equatorial site where you can stand directly on the line that divides the Northern and Southern Hemispheres—a perfect photo opportunity! Next, we journey to the quaint village of Olmedo, where we gear up and set off on our bikes. Our path takes us through rolling farmland and lush valleys, riding beneath the towering Cayambe Volcano, the highest point on the equatorial line. As we cycle along these stunning routes, we’re immersed in the rural beauty of Ecuador’s highlands, with panoramic views and encounters with local farmers along the way. We soon arrive in the charming, historic town of Zuleta, known for its artisanal embroidery and Andean cultural heritage. By late afternoon, we reach the San Clemente Indigenous Community, where the warmth of local hospitality awaits. Here, we’ll enjoy an authentic cultural exchange, learning about indigenous customs and connecting with the community. Tonight, we rest in comfortable, community-based accommodations, sharing stories and dinner prepared with fresh, local ingredients—a perfect close to a thrilling first day on the road.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

After a hearty breakfast, we set off towards the majestic slopes of Imbabura Volcano for today’s thrilling ride. Our route combines scenic double-track paths with paved roads, winding through Ecuador’s stunning highlands. As we pedal, we’re treated to breathtaking views of San Pablo Lake, a mystical body of water often called the “Lake of Tears” by locals for its serene beauty. Midway, we take a break to explore Peguche, a village renowned for its rich weaving traditions. Here, local artisans welcome us into their workshops, offering a close-up look at the vibrant, handwoven textiles for which the region is famous. From intricate designs to bold colors, each piece tells a story of Andean culture and heritage. Next, we ride to the legendary Otavalo Market, where we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by the market’s vibrant energy and endless stalls of handmade goods. Take time to wander, shop for unique souvenirs, or simply soak in the colorful atmosphere. As the day winds down, we’ll drive through scenic landscapes for approximately three hours to reach our next destination: the Cotopaxi region, where tomorrow’s adventure awaits.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

After breakfast, we drive into the heart of Cotopaxi National Reserve, where the nearly 6,000-meter Cotopaxi Volcano—one of the highest active volcanoes in the world—dominates the landscape. This unique páramo ecosystem is an Andean treasure, home to Ecuador’s iconic national bird, the Andean Condor. Keep an eye on the sky for the chance to see these magnificent birds soaring high above. Our cycling journey today follows a mix of double-track and single-track trails, offering an exhilarating route through stunning Andean scenery. As we navigate these diverse trails, we may encounter local wildlife, including wild horses grazing in the open fields, foxes, and other species native to the reserve. The high-altitude setting adds to the thrill, with panoramic views of the rugged Andes stretching as far as the eye can see, making every climb and descent all the more rewarding. Midway through, we’ll stop for a relaxing picnic surrounded by the untouched beauty of the reserve, breathing in the fresh mountain air before continuing our ride.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Today’s adventure takes us to the breathtaking Chimborazo Volcano, the highest point on Earth when measured from the planet's center. After a one-hour drive, we begin our cycling journey at an astonishing 4,800 meters above sea level, navigating a sandy single-track trail that circles the base of this legendary peak. The high-altitude setting provides a unique challenge, but the incredible scenery keeps us energized. Keep an eye out for vicuñas, graceful Andean animals that roam freely within the reserve, adding to the magic of the landscape. As we continue, the trail transitions to a gravel road, offering new vistas of the vibrant Andean farmlands where crops like quinoa and carrots thrive in the rich volcanic soil. In the afternoon, we descend to the charming town of Baños, nestled at the foot of the Tungurahua Volcano. Here, you can unwind in the town’s famous hot springs, relaxing your muscles after the day’s ride. Baños invites exploration with its vibrant local culture, bustling streets, and scenic surroundings, providing a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure to end the day.

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

This morning, we embark on a scenic drive up the winding roads of the Llanganates Mountain Range, an area steeped in mystery and beauty. From the trailhead, we’ll begin our cycling journey along a paved road with stunning views of the active Tungurahua Volcano in the distance. The gentle initial climb serves as a warm-up for the exhilarating downhill ride back toward Baños, where breathtaking landscapes unfold at every turn. As we descend, the environment transforms, and we find ourselves surrounded by lush cloud forests, alive with towering trees, vibrant greenery, and an incredible variety of flora and fauna unique to this region. It’s a descent that captivates the senses, offering moments to pause and appreciate the Andean ecosystem in all its diversity. In the afternoon, we take a break from cycling to visit the legendary Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, a roaring cascade nestled within the dense forest, where you can feel the raw power of nature up close. Finally, we head back to Quito, with memories of an unforgettable journey through Ecuador’s Andes—each turn and vista a testament to the adventure we’ve shared.

• Breakfast
• Lunch

Our services conclude today, but if you wish to extend your stay, we would be delighted to assist with additional travel arrangements. We highly recommend pairing this Andean adventure with an exploration of the Galápagos Islands, where unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes await. Alternatively, consider extending your journey to other destinations in Latin America, such as the ancient ruins of Peru, the vibrant cities of Colombia, or the natural wonders of Chile and Argentina. Safe travels, whether you’re heading home or continuing your adventure!

• Breakfast