Itinerary

1. Day 01: Welcome to Ecuador!

   • No scheduled activities are planned for your first day, allowing you to explore Quito at your own pace. Wander through the historic city centre, 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.
   • Please join us for a welcome meeting at 18:00 in the hotel lobby in the evening. This will be an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travellers, and to review the itinerary and essential details for the days ahead.

   Meals included: None.

2. Day 02: The Highlands to Cloud Forest

   • Today marks the true start of our Andean cycling adventure! We will ascend by car to the foothills of the Pichincha Volcano. 
   • From this point, we will bike on an old secondary dirt road while cruising past landscapes of colourful mountains, farms, and local homes. You will get to witness real Ecuadorian life, as many of the time, cowboys and farmers work alongside the road, as well as cows leisurely grazing. 
   • After a two-hour ride, we will descend into the cloud forest, where the warm air streams of the Pacific meet with the cold winds of the high Andes, creating a hugely biodiverse area. The bike ride will take about four hours total. 
   • We will have a relaxing lunch along the riverside before strolling through the local hummingbird sanctuary.

   Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch.

3. Day 03: Crossing Hemispheres: From Volcanic Valleys to Indigenous Villages

   • Early in the morning, 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 equator.
   • 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. 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 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.

   Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

4. Day 04: Cycling the Foothills of Imbabura Volcano

   • 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. Each piece, from intricate designs to bold colours, 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 soak in the colourful 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.

   Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

5. Day 05: Exploring the Grandeur of Cotopaxi Volcano

   • 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 to see these magnificent birds soaring above.
   • Today's cycling journey follows 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 reserve's untouched beauty, breathing in the fresh mountain air before continuing our ride.

   Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

6. Day 06: Hotel SPA: Time To Relax!

   • Today is all about you! Indulge in a well-deserved day of rest. Our hotel offers a variety of spa treatments, from soothing massages to rejuvenating facials. 
   • Dip in the pool, relax in the sauna, or unwind with a good book. It’s the perfect opportunity to recharge your batteries and prepare for the adventures ahead.

   Meals included: Breakfast.

7. Day 07: Cycling the Roof of the World: Chimborazo

   • 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. Look 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.

   Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

8. Day 08: Descending from the Llanganates Mountains to Baños de Agua Santa

   • This morning, we embark on a scenic drive up the winding roads of the Llanganates Mountain Range, an area steeped in mystery and beauty. 
   • We’ll begin our cycling journey from the trailhead along a paved road with stunning views of the active Tungurahua Volcano in the distance. The gentle initial climb is 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. This descent 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 our shared adventure.

   Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

9. Day 09: Cycling Around Turquoise Lake in A Volcanic Crater

   • Today, we will pick you up at your hotel in Quito city and then drive for three hours to the entrance of the Illinizas Ecological Reserve. Here we will have some coca tea and prepare all the equipment for today’s ride.
   • We will start taking the trails of the rim of Quilotoa. From there, we will have amazing views of the turquoise water of the crater. We will be riding single tracks, and in some parts, we will have to push our bikes as the terrain is very steep.
   • Later, we will start the decline to San Pedro town. Here we will have a short break and have some food.
   • Later, we continue down an impressive canyon.
   • We will then start climbing for a couple of hours until we reach Isinlivi village, where we will spend the night.

   Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch.

10. Day 10: Time to say, Goodbye!

    • Our services conclude today, but if you wish to extend your stay, we would be delighted to assist with additional travel arrangements. We recommend pairing this Andean adventure with exploring 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!

    Meals included: Breakfast.