6-Day Biking Expedition Through Ecuador's Diverse Landscapes From Quito
Highlights
Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi National Park
nature, cycling, rappelling
Private Tour
6 Days
Medium
English, Spanish
Description
Embark on an exhilarating biking expedition through Ecuador's diverse landscapes, starting in Quito, where a captivating city tour by bike unveils historic wonders amid charming streets and vibrant markets. Cycle to Otavalo, a picturesque town renowned for indigenous markets, immersing yourself in Andean culture and collecting unique souvenirs. Push the limits with a biking excursion to Pichincha Volcano, ascending its slopes for breathtaking panoramic views. The journey continues to Cotopaxi National Park, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and thrilling outdoor activities.
Itinerary
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Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador: Let Your Adventure Begin!
- We extend a warm welcome to Ecuador, and we could not be more excited to have you here!
- Your journey begins with a sense of relaxation and anticipation as you embark on a scenic 45-minute drive into the enchanting city of Quito.
- Along the way, the picturesque landscapes will provide a delightful backdrop as you receive a comprehensive overview of the itinerary for your upcoming adventures, setting the stage for a truly memorable experience.
- Upon your arrival and check-in at your hotel, we recommend taking some time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Quito and explore its captivating cultural offerings.
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Day 2: Biking through Quito's Historic Heart
- In the morning, our biking adventure begins along the Amazonas avenue, renowned as Quito's business district.
- Cycling along dedicated lanes, we will make brief stops at El Ejido and La Alameda park.
- Continuing our journey, we will explore the Neo-gothic La Basilica church, offering the chance to ascend its towers for a breathtaking view of the historic old town of Quito.
- Riding down Garcia Moreno street, also known as the Seven Crosses for its seven churches, we will pause at La Independencia Plaza to delve into some historical insights from our guide.
- Continuing our exploration, we will marvel at the unique architecture of this UNESCO site before concluding our journey at La Ronda street.
- Here, we will indulge in some delightful ice cream before heading back to the hotel.
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Day 3: Otavalo Odyssey: A Cultural Journey Through Ecuador's Highlands
- Heading north through the mountains towards Otavalo, a lively town characterized by its significant indigenous population, easily identified by their traditional attire featuring wool hats, golden necklaces, intricately embroidered blouses, and long black skirts.
- To energize ourselves for the upcoming journey, we will pause to savor a local delicacy of biscotti with cheese and caramel—a delightful sweet start to our adventure!
- Our route leads us across hills and along dirt-patched paths, connecting the farms of local families and traversing pastures of quinoa and other grains that define the region's way of life.
- En route, we will be treated to stunning vistas of the Imbabura Volcano and Lago San Pablo. Our ultimate destination is the vibrant Otavalo Market, Ecuador's largest indigenous market.
- Wander through its aisles filled with locally crafted fabrics, sweaters, carvings, and jewelry, letting the vibrant offerings inspire you to carry a piece of Ecuador in both your heart and suitcase.
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Day 4: Pichincha Panorama: A Biking Expedition through Ecuador's Diverse Landscapes
- Embarking on an action-packed day, we will start by driving up to the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano.
- From this vantage point, our journey continues on two wheels along an old secondary dirt road, offering views of vibrant mountains, local farms, and homes.
- Experience authentic Ecuadorian life as cowboys and farmers often work alongside the road, while cows peacefully graze in the surroundings.
- After a two-hour ride, we will descend into the cloud forest, where the warm air streams from the Pacific converge with the cold winds of the high Andes, creating a remarkably biodiverse environment. The biking adventure spans approximately four hours, with a leisurely lunch by the riverside before a stroll through a local hummingbird sanctuary.
- Our day concludes with a return to Quito.
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Day 5: Volcanic Vistas: Cycling Adventure through Cotopaxi National Park and the Avenue of Volcanoes
- After picking you up at the meeting point at 8:00 am, our journey heads south down the Pan-American Highway.
- Along the route, we will be treated to majestic views of the Avenue of Volcanoes, a captivating part of the central Ecuadorian Andes! Our biking adventure unfolds in Cotopaxi National Park, named after one of the highest active volcanoes on earth, standing just over nineteen thousand feet tall. This awe-inspiring sight is among the most stunning in Ecuador.
- Cycling alongside the volcano's base at 13,000 feet, we will traverse dirt roads and single tracks, surrounded by an otherworldly landscape adorned with rocks scattered by the volcano during its last major eruption.
- Depending on your luck, you might encounter wild animals such as deer, alpacas, llamas, bulls, and horses in this area.
- The ride spans about fifteen miles, mostly on flat terrain.
- To conclude our day, we will enjoy a picnic with a delightful view of some Inca ruins before returning to Quito.
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Day 6: Private Transfer to Quito Airport for Departure
- At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for your at your hotel lobby to help you with your luggage and drive you to the airport for your departure.
What's Included
What's Excluded
Know Before You Go
What To Bring
Meeting Point
Cancellation Policy
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No refund in case of any cancellation.
Price
Persons | |
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1 to 1 | /person |
2 to 10 | /person |
This is a private tour |