6-Day Biking Tour in Ecuador with Quito, Otavalo and Cotopaxi

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Bike through Quito's historic streets, parks, and UNESCO-listed old town
• 02 Experience Andean culture at Otavalo's renowned indigenous market
• 03 Ride from the foothills of Pichincha into a biodiverse cloud forest
• 04 Cycle beneath Cotopaxi Volcano along dirt roads and single tracks
• 05 Take in sweeping views of the Avenue of Volcanoes in the Ecuadorian Andes

Embark on an exhilarating 6-day biking expedition through Ecuador's diverse landscapes, beginning in Quito, where a city tour by bike reveals historic wonders, charming streets, and vibrant markets. Continue to Otavalo, a picturesque highland town renowned for its indigenous market, and immerse yourself in Andean culture while browsing locally crafted goods. Ride through the foothills of Pichincha Volcano and into the cloud forest, then cycle through the dramatic scenery of Cotopaxi National Park beneath one of the world's highest active volcanoes. This journey blends cultural immersion, historical exploration, and thrilling outdoor adventure.

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.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Otavalo, Imbabura Volcano

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arrival in Ecuador and Transfer to Quito

• We extend a warm welcome to Ecuador, and we could not be more excited to have you here.
• Your journey begins with a relaxing and scenic 45-minute drive into the enchanting city of Quito.
• Along the way, the picturesque landscapes 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 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.

2

Day 02

Bike Ride Through Quito's Historic Heart

• In the morning, our biking adventure begins along 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 Basílica church, with the chance to ascend its towers for a breathtaking view of Quito's historic old town.
• Riding down García Moreno Street, also known as the Seven Crosses for its seven churches, we will pause at Plaza de la Independencia to hear historical insights from our guide.
• As we continue our exploration, we will marvel at the unique architecture of this UNESCO site before concluding our ride at La Ronda Street.
• Here, we will indulge in some delightful ice cream before heading back to the hotel.

3

Day 03

Otavalo Ride and Indigenous Market Experience

• Heading north through the mountains toward Otavalo, we reach 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 journey ahead, 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 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, and let the vibrant offerings inspire you to carry a piece of Ecuador in both your heart and suitcase.

4

Day 04

Pichincha Foothills and Cloud Forest Biking

• Embarking on an action-packed day, we will start by driving up to the foothills of 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 surrounding landscape.
• 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 followed by a stroll through a local hummingbird sanctuary.
• Our day concludes with a return to Quito.

5

Day 05

Cotopaxi National Park and Avenue of Volcanoes Ride

• After picking you up at the meeting point at 8:00 am, our journey heads south along 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.

6

Day 06

Private Transfer to Quito Airport

• At the designated time for your international flight, your private driver will be waiting for you in your hotel lobby to assist with your luggage and drive you to the airport for your departure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Breakfast x5 days
• Lodging x5 days
• Use of bicycle
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Meals as detailed on the itinerary

What's Not Included

• Gratuities
• International flights

What to bring

• Comfortable shoes and clothes
• Bottle of water
• Waterproof jackets

Know before you go

• Ecuador uses US dollars.
• You can use credit cards in Quito.
• Use small bills in stores (10 & 20 USD).
• Situated at an astonishing elevation of 9,350 feet (2,850 meters), Quito proudly stands among the highest cities in the world, and its breathtaking views are sure to leave you in awe.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Mariscal Sucre Airport, Quito, Ecuador

Tour start

Quito, Ecuador

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.