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Trip

Ecuador

Biking

Trip Ecuador Advanced MTB
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Fast, flowy singletrack, technical terrain, and epic descents are what this 9-day adventure is all about. Experience Ecuador’s trails and wonder how MTB could still be so undiscovered in this incredible country.
Take an enduro mountain biking tour from the Andes, to the cloud forest, to the sunny coast of Ecuador. Ride your heart out, stay in local haciendas, and enjoy the hospitality of some of the world’s kindest people. This adventure, designed for advanced riders, is powered by our local partners at Activexpedition.

Prepare for an unforgettable mountain biking expedition through Ecuador's stunning landscapes, where adventure, rich culture, and diverse ecosystems converge. Guided by experienced local riders, you'll tackle thrilling trails, from challenging single-track routes in lush cloud forests to steep climbs with breathtaking views of the Andes and iconic volcanoes like Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.

As you journey through this remarkable terrain, immerse yourself in vibrant ecosystems, transitioning from high-altitude paramo to cloud forest and dry valleys. Beyond biking, unwind in soothing volcanic hot springs and rejuvenate in local spas, ensuring you’re refreshed for each day's adventures.

Experience authentic hospitality at charming family-run properties and savor delicious farm-to-table meals featuring local dishes. Explore the burgeoning craft beer and wine scene, sampling exquisite local brews and wines.

Engage with local culture by visiting colorful indigenous markets, where you can discover vibrant textiles and handcrafted goods. Your knowledgeable guides will enrich your experience by sharing insights into local customs and traditions.

This expedition not only promises thrilling rides and breathtaking scenery but supports local communities directly as well as environmentally responsible practices. Join us for the ride of your life, filled with unforgettable memories, cultural immersion, and natural wonders!
 

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Itinerary
Itinerary
Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides due to weather or safety reasons.
  • 1
    Day number 1
    Arrival

    Today, we will warmly welcome you upon your arrival at Quito Airport and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. This day is dedicated to your acclimatization and personal exploration of the city. Feel free to wander at your own pace, soaking in the rich culture, stunning architecture, and local cuisine that Quito has to offer.

    In the evening, at 6 PM, we invite you to join us for an important briefing session. This will be an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow adventurers, as well as to gather essential information and tips for the exciting days ahead.

    Overnight: Dann Carlton Hotel
    Meals included: none
  • 2
    Day number 2
    Mountain Biking in Quito

    Welcome to the first day of our mountain biking adventure! We will begin by exploring the vibrant trails near Quito, starting with a visit to the Metropolitan Forest Park. This park features a network of green and blue trails with dirt paths, roots, and thrilling drops, providing an exciting opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude and assess your biking skills.

    Following our morning ride, we’ll drive to a local organic farm just outside Quito. Here, you'll learn about sustainable farming practices and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table lunch made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

    In the afternoon, we'll head to Lumbici Bike Park, located in a beautiful eucalyptus forest. The park offers a variety of trails for different skill levels, with shuttles available to take you back to the top after each ride, maximizing your time on the trails. After a full day of biking and exploration, we'll return to our hotel in Quito to relax and prepare for the next adventure.

    Overnight: Dann Carlton
    Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
  • 3
    Day number 3
    Teleférico Downhill and Equator Line Exploration

    Today is filled with adventure as we start with a short drive to the foothills of Pichincha volcano. We’ll board the Teleférico “Cable Car”, designed for both passengers and bikes, to ascend close to the volcano's crater. This ride offers stunning panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

    At the top, we’ll embark on a thrilling descent along high-elevation singletrack, featuring grassy landscapes, small jumps, and steeper sections that lead into a native Andean forest. The trails transition into flowy paths through forests of towering pine and eucalyptus trees. Although the ride is short, it’s packed with excitement, allowing us the chance to repeat the course a few times based on the group's enthusiasm.

    In the afternoon, we will head north into the Ecuadorian highlands, stopping for a traditional lunch to experience local cuisine. Our next stop will be at the equator line, where we’ll learn about its historical significance to ancient civilizations.

    By late afternoon, we’ll reach our guest house to relax after an adventurous day, concluding with a delicious homemade dinner that highlights regional flavors.

    Overnight: Family-run Guest House
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 4
    Day number 4
    Northern Andes and El Chota Valley Adventure

    Today, we will journey by car to the high mountains of the Northern Andes in Ecuador. Weather permitting, we’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Cayambe and Imbabura volcanoes, learning about their cultural significance from our guides.

    Our biking adventure begins in the unique paramo ecosystem, where we’ll take in scenic vistas of the Yaguarcocha lagoon and ride along fast, flowy single tracks next to local farms.

    After a brief stint on a road, we will enter the El Chota dry valley, experiencing a dramatic shift in landscape from lush greenery to arid terrain filled with cacti and agave. The trails here are more technical, featuring loose dirt and rocky sections, with steep areas that provide stunning views. Our guides will tailor the trail selection to the group’s skill level to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.

    The ride concludes in the lower part of El Chota Valley, home to the Afro-Ecuadorian community. We will visit a local artisan workshop to learn about their craftsmanship and cultural traditions.

    In the afternoon, we will return to the guest house and have a cooking class using local products with our family host.

    Overnight: Family-run Guest House
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 5
    Day number 5
    Cultural Exploration and Relaxation Day

    Today is dedicated to cultural exploration and relaxation, starting with a visit to the famous Otavalo indigenous market, one of the largest in South America. Here, you can browse colorful handicrafts, textiles, and traditional artwork made by local artisans, all within a lively and aromatic atmosphere.

    After our market experience, we will head to the Papallacta hot springs spa, where you can unwind in natural thermal waters surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. This peaceful environment offers various therapeutic pools, with optional spa treatments available for those seeking extra relaxation.

    Later, we will travel by car to a charming hacienda near the impressive Cotopaxi Volcano, enjoying breathtaking landscapes along the way. As evening approaches, we’ll gather for a social hour by the fireplace, where you can enjoy a selection of wine and other drinks while sharing stories and reflecting on the day’s experiences, providing a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow travelers.

    Overnight: Family-run Farm Hacienda
    Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
  • 6
    Day number 6
    Cotopaxi Volcano Trails

    Today, we embark on an exciting adventure in the breathtaking Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, Cotopaxi, which stands at an impressive 19,347 feet (5,897 meters). This protected reserve boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including bulls, horses, foxes, and condors, making it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts.

    Our day starts with a short drive into the park, where we will ascend to the parqueadero, located at nearly 15,000 feet above sea level. Here, we will prepare for our thrilling descent along sandy and rocky trails that lead us back to the base of the volcano. Depending on the group's preferences and energy levels, we may have the opportunity to shuttle back up a couple of times to experience more exhilarating rides down these picturesque trails.

    Please keep in mind that access to certain trails may vary based on seasonal conditions and decisions made by the reserve authorities. If the trails are closed during our visit, we will head to the nearby Cotopaxi Bike Park, which offers an exciting alternative with a variety of flowy trails suitable for different skill levels, ensuring everyone has a great time.

    In the afternoon, we will travel to a historic hacienda, where we will spend the night.

    Overnight: Historic Hacienda
    Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
  • 7
    Day number 7
    Chimborazo Iceman Trail

    Today, we embark on an exciting journey to the Chimborazo Reserve, home to the remarkable Chimborazo Volcano, the highest point on Earth when measured from the center of the planet.

    Upon reaching the reserve, we will ascend to nearly 16,000 feet, the highest elevation of our trip, where stunning views await. Our biking adventure will vary depending on the season, featuring either sandy trails or snow-covered paths for a thrilling experience.

    We’ll ride along the Iceman Trails, named after local communities that collect and transport ice from the volcano to sell in nearby markets using donkeys. As we descend, we'll learn about this unique cultural tradition while enjoying the exhilarating ride.

    Surrounded by the stunning vistas of the Central Andes and fertile volcanic farmland—responsible for producing about 40% of Ecuador's vegetables—we'll navigate diverse terrains, including rocky sections and flowy single tracks, with incredible views of deep canyons and the volcanic landscape. As the day winds down, we will arrive at a cozy, family-run mountain lodge, where we will have the opportunity to create our own pizzas from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. This delightful culinary experience not only results in a delicious meal but also fosters a sense of community and connection with local culture, making it a perfect end to our adventurous day.


    Overnight: Family Run Mountain Lodge
    Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 8
    Day number 8
    Mamarumi Downhill Trail

    On the final day of our adventure, we’ll embark on an exhilarating ride down the Mamarumi Downhill Trail. After a short drive to the trailhead, we’ll be ready to experience one of the top downhill trails in South America, known for its thrilling descents and vibrant scenery. This trail has hosted numerous competitions, making it a favorite among downhill enthusiasts.

    The Mamarumi Trail is steeped in history, as it follows ancient culuncos once used by the Incas and other civilizations for trade, connecting the Andean regions to the coast. As we ride, you’ll navigate through tunnels formed by lush vegetation, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.

    The trail features steep sections with numerous switchbacks, providing a fluid and exhilarating ride. The first part of our descent takes us through a native Andean forest, eventually leading us into the coastal region, where we’ll ride through expansive banana and sugarcane plantations. We aim to complete our ride before midday to allow for our long drive back to Quito.

    It's important to note that access to the Mamarumi Trail may be affected by seasonal weather conditions. If the trail is closed during your visit, we will instead explore the Quilotoa Volcano trails. These trails offer a unique experience, including stunning single tracks along the rim of the crater lake and ancient paths that lead into picturesque canyons. Regardless of the route, today promises to be an unforgettable conclusion to our adventure!

    Overnight: Dann Carlton
    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • 9
    Day number 9
    Departure

    As our incredible journey comes to an end, we will prepare for your departure. Transfers to the airport will be arranged based on your individual flight schedule. To ensure a smooth departure process, we recommend scheduling your pick-up at least three hours prior to your flight.

    Meals included: Breakfast

Trip Package Includes:

  • Experienced certified English-speaking guide
  • Airport transfers
  • Private transport
  • Accommodations for eight nights (based on double occupancy), including boutique hotels, mountain lodges, and haciendas
  • Meals per itinerary
  • Cooking class
  • Wine and beer tasting
  • Water and snacks at all times
  • Biking gear rental: Full-suspension Trek Fuel EX5 with Shimano SLX brakes, helmets, pads and gloves
  • ​All fees to reserves, museums, and spas
  • 20% off discount code at evo.com

Trip Package Does Not Include:

  • International flights
  • Single supplement $400
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, we recommend World Nomads)
  • Meals not described in the itinerary 
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for guides and drivers
 

Questions? Contact us!

Area Information
Ecuador

Along South America’s northwest coast lies beautiful Ecuador, a country the size of Nevada yet one of the most biodiverse places in the world. From the rugged, snow-capped highlands of the Andes to the lush Amazon jungle, the array of wildlife and landscapes here are spectacular and the opportunities for outdoor recreation are plentiful. Ecuador is equally rich and diverse in its cultural heritage, with 14 Indigenous nationalities as well as deep-rooted African and European influences that make for colorful markets, traditional villages, and cosmopolitan cities. This adventure takes us to a select handful of wild places, iconic national parks and reserves, and diamond-in-the-rough trails.

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FAQ
FAQ
  • Are departures guaranteed?
    Yes! There is no minimum number of guests required for each departure to run. If you are a solo traveler and there are no other guests booked on the same departure, however, you will need to pay a single supplement of $400 since accommodation pricing is based on double (shared) occupancy. Please wait to make travel arrangements until you have received confirmation from Activexpedition.
  • What if I need to cancel?
    evoTrip upholds Activexpeditions policies regarding cancellation. Guests have: - 72 hours from booking to cancel with no fee. - 3 days after the booking - 90 days before the trip a $100USD cancellation fee per person would be charged. - 89 to 60 days before departure, 20% of the total price of the trip will be applied. - 59 to 30 days before departure, 50% of the total price of the trip will be charged. - 29 days or fewer, 100% of the trip cost will be forfeited. There may be additional fees associated with cancelling within the stated periods by hotel and transport providers. Clients are responsible for any cancellation fees incurred. Travel insurance is mandatory. For any unexpected event that may affect your trip, guests are strongly recommended to hire insurance. *Flight tickets included in a tour or purchased by Activexpedition upon client request are non-refundable.
  • What if I need to postpone my trip?
    Available postponement of traveling dates depends upon following conditions: - You may only request changing the date of your trip until 60 days before your departure. - New departure date cannot be over a year from old departure date. - Activexpedition will propose the available shared departures options.
  • What are the accommodations like?
    Accommodation is provided at charming mountain lodges, family-run guest houses, and historic haciendas. Haciendas are historical farm houses or Ecuadorian estates that date back to the 16th century and have been renovated into first class hotels, lodges and inns. Most of the haciendas are family-run and offer charming amenities, historic relics, traditional home-cooking and cozy, intimate settings. Haciendas are a major part of Ecuadorian culture and a highlight of the region.
  • Is there a single supplement if I am a solo traveler? Can I book my own room?
    Generally a single supplement fee is not incurred unless you specifically request your own single room, as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room. If you prefer not to share and have your own room, then there will be a $400 single supplement fee equal to that of the complete cost of accommodation.
  • What skill/experience level is required for this trip?
    This trip is a challenging all-mountain experience that includes technical trail riding, therefore it is recommended for advanced riders and up. The whole trip involves a mix of trails and roads, some on dirt, rocks, grass and gravel. Every ride is about 20 miles, and the elevation gain can be 1000 feet a day, if people want to do more elevation gain, our guides will be happy to do longer rides. There will always be transport support close to the trails, and guides will be in contact with the driver by radio.
  • What are the guides like?
    All guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; meaning they have a degree in guiding, with top-notch skills and knowledge. Each guide has many years of leading experience, including additional courses taken for other outdoor activities and International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, all guides are extremely personable and strive to deliver exceptional travel experiences for each guest.
  • What is the minimum and maximum number of guests per trip?
    Minimum of 1 person and a maximum of 8.
  • What gear should I bring?
    All biking gear is included (bike, helmets, gloves, pads). Activexpeditions always makes sure to have top of the line gear from well-known and reputable international brands as we understand that the best gear gives extra confidence to our riders. For biking we use Trek Top Fuel, and for protection we use Bontrager and Fox.
  • What if I’d like to bring my own bike?
    No problem! You are more than welcome to bring your own bike, and if desired, your guides can help with reassembling it.
  • How do you address sustainability on your trips?
    We do our best to not produce any trash; we believe that recycling is not enough so we try to avoid using any plastic or materials that pollute our environment. Every day we work towards being a zero waste tour operator and our staff is well trained to leave the least impact possible in our service areas. We also work with local indigenous communities in the different regions. By doing so we are able to teach our guests about the rich culture Ecuador, all the while helping the people preserve their traditions and lands. By working directly with local peoples we are able to create a sustainable touristic income for the community.
  • When and how do I meet up with the group?
    Please be ready to meet the group on Day 1 at 6 PM in the hotel lobby.
  • What will the food be like?
    Pork, chicken, beef, and cuy (guinea pig) are really popular in the Andean regions of Ecuador, and are served with a variety of carbohydrate-rich foods, especially rice, corn, and potatoes. A popular street food is hornado (roasted pig), which is often served with llapingacho (a pan seared potato ball). Some examples of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine generally include Ecuadorian ceviche (shrimp, lime and corn), hearty quinoa soups, patacones (unripe plantains fried in oil), llapingachos (fried potato pancakes), and seco de chivo (a type of stew made from goat). A wide variety of fresh fruits are available, particularly at lower altitudes, including granadilla, passionfruit, naranjilla and several types of bananas. Another local favorite are fresh juices, including the tree tomato or a colada morada (a traditional Ecuadorian drink made with fruits, spices, and purple corn flour).
  • Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
    As Ecuador has a great variety of cuisine and gastronomy, vegetarians, vegans and gluten free options are widely available and welcome. If you have any allergies or food restrictions, please inform Activexpeditions prior to your departure. Our guides are always ready to coordinate with chefs and restaurants for substitute meals and allergy needs.
  • Is there a minimum age required for this trip?
    Yes, 12 years old.
  • What is transportation like?
    Driving time can take more than expected in Ecuador, as it is a small country with many people and consists of both dirt and paved roads. We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group.
  • Do I need a Visa, Passport and Vaccinations?
    A valid passport for at least six months past the planned date of departure is required. Make sure you check your passport validity and expiration date prior to travel. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador and travelers can stay in Ecuador for up to 90 days without a visa. However, sanctions including fines and deportation can occur if you stay past this time period. No vaccinations are required for this trip, however we recommend checking with your doctor prior to travel.
  • What about Covid-19?
    We are optimistic that travel will continue to become more plausible with the advent of Covid-19 vaccines, but also understand that there is uncertainty about how quickly these will become widely available to all groups both in the US and abroad. We strongly suggest checking the CDC and WHO for the latest public health guidelines, and if you choose to travel while the pandemic is still underway, that you adhere to recommended health & safety measures before, during, and after your trip. Please note that currently Ecuador requires proof of a negative Covid-19 test result (within 72 hours of departure) in order to enter the country, and that the US currently requires proof of negative Covid-19 test result (within 72 hours of return) in order to re-enter the country.
Testimonials
I had such an amazing time on these great trails with new and old friends! I can't wait to come back for more! Thank you so much for an epic trip Activexpedition!
Aimee
Trip Guest
This was honestly probably the best trip I’ve ever been on! I can’t stress enough how caring Christian and all of the staff are. They are very attentive to individual needs, stress safety over all, and ensure that each person has an enjoyable time. The land, the people, the food, the guides, the activities - all beautiful, unique, and mind-blowing.
Josh
Trip Guest

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