Ecuador Cycling Adventure Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Quito

Upon arriving in Quito, you can check-in at your hotel and then the day is yours to explore. Make sure you’re back at the hotel for your 6:00 pm welcome meeting in the lobby. T

his quick meeting will introduce you to your guide and fellow travellers and outline the adventure you’re about to embark on!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Quito (2,850m / 9,350’)
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Cycle the Volcanic Foothills

Your bike ride today begins travelling north to Cayambe, the third-highest volcanic peak in Ecuador. You’ll take a break for coffee and a local sweet treat before continuing on to Olmedo.

Take in the beautiful pastoral fields of wheat, potatoes, and corn that lay at the foot of the volcano. You’ll be stopping for lunch at Zuleta Hacienda, a former presidential residence in a gorgeous building set in an even more beautiful location. You’ll enjoy an Ecuadorian lunch made from fresh local ingredients.

After lunch, you’ll be riding through the Imbabura province, cycling through lush indigenous farmlands.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Otavalo (2,532m / 8,302’)
Distance: 2 to 3 hours, average of 30 to 50 km, maximum 600m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 3 Bike the Training Routes of Champion Richard Carapaz

Today’s ride will take you further north towards the border between Ecuador and Colombia, on roads that serve as the training grounds for champion Ecuadorian cyclists. Challenge yourself on these high-altitude routes alongside some of the best cyclists in the country!

After pushing your limits on today’s ride, reward yourself with a stop at the home of Richard Carapaz, Ecuador’s first champion of the international competition the Giro d’Italia.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Otavalo (2,532m / 8,302’)
Distance: 2 to 3 hours, average of 30 to 50 km, maximum 600m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 4 Ride to the Famous Otavalo Market

Your route today has many stops meant to introduce you to the local culture. Beginning in San Antonio de Ibarra, you’ll have time to peruse the local markets famous for wood carvings.

Then, you’ll bike along the road to the indigenous village of Peguche where you’ll learn about traditional weaving techniques. As you admire the iconic patterns and beautiful woven crafts you’ll also have time for a traditional lunch.

Then you’ll ride on to the Otavalo Market, which is the largest indigenous market in the country. You’ll be amazed by all the incredible crafts, clothing, carvings, and jewelry that have been handcrafted by the locals. You’ll end the day here.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Otavalo (2,532m / 8,302’)
Distance: 2 to 3 hours, average of 30 to 50 km, maximum 600m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 5 Cycling in the Dry Valleys

The climate today will vary widely as you ride through the fresh mountain air and down into the warmer cloud forest. You’ll witness incredible lush vegetation as you descend to lower altitudes.

Enjoy a break during a visit to a rose plantation in San Jose de Minas, where you’ll learn about this important Ecuadorian export. Once you’ve had a chance to stop and smell the roses, you’ll embark on the toughest part of your ride as you navigate hills and valleys on your way to the river.

Once you arrive at the Pisque River, you’ll be picked up and driven to Quito, where you’ll head out for your farewell dinner with your new friends.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Otavalo (2,532m / 8,302’)
Distance: 2 to 3 hours, average of 30 to 50 km, maximum 600m of elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6 Departure Day

Your tour ends after breakfast. Check out of the hotel and continue on your journey or begin your travels home.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast