Ecuador E-Biking North-to-South Andes Spine (21 days)

Overview

This is the definitive long-distance e-bike expedition across the backbone of the Ecuadorian Andes, charting a spectacular course from the northern volcanic zones to the historic southern highlands. Designed for riders seeking unparalleled geographic and cultural depth, this journey traverses five distinct ecological zones—ranging from the high-altitude páramo (Andean moorlands) to the dense biodiversity of the western cloud forests.

By leveraging premium electric mountain bikes, you will seamlessly conquer demanding high-altitude passes, ancient Inca highways (Qhapaq Ñan), and remote agricultural backroads. Along the route, your physical efforts are balanced by deep farm-to-table culinary experiences, organic ingredients, and overnight stays in historic, centuries-old colonial haciendas. Every pedal stroke directly supports grass-roots ecotourism, channeling economic vitality into indigenous Kichwa communities and remote Andean settlements.

Ecuador E-Biking North-to-South Andes Spine (21 days)

Highlights

Historic Hacienda Overnights: Stay in living monuments of Ecuadorian history, including Hacienda Zuleta, Hacienda Guachalá (the oldest in the country), and Hacienda La Cienega.
Expert Local Guiding Team: Journey under the leadership of certified, high-altitude wilderness guides and expedition managers who bring deep ancestral knowledge, mechanical expertise, and localized cultural connections to every mile of the trail.
Regenerative Farm-to-Table Gastronomy: Fuel your physical journey with organic, locally sourced meals—ranging from traditional family-cooked highland dishes to refined farm-to-table culinary experiences at historic haciendas that utilize fresh ingredients grown in the volcanic soil.
The Cloud Forest Descent: Ride from the rugged foothills of the Western Cordillera down into the hyper-biodiverse Tandayapa Valley and Mindo cloud forests.
Equator & Pre-Inca Roads: Cross the geographic equator line at zero degrees latitude and descend the ancient Culebrillas road, historic territory of the pre-Inca Caranqui culture.
Indigenous Artisan Immersion: Meet traditional master weavers in Peguche and experience the bustling, ancestral trade rhythms of the famous Otavalo Market.
The Trans-Andean Páramo Traverse: Cross the pristine Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve on a remote mountain route connecting the indigenous community of Oyacachi to the Papallacta thermal valleys.
Continental Divide Cresting: Conquer the geographic spine where waters split between the Pacific watershed and the Amazon basin, riding remote backroads at breathtaking altitudes.
Avenue of the Volcanoes: Bike directly into the heart of Cotopaxi National Park, tracking beneath the perfectly symmetrical, glaciated cone of the Cotopaxi Volcano.
The Toachi Canyon & Quilotoa Loop: Navigate the deep, dramatic cuts of the Toachi River Canyon before climbing to the rim of the breathtaking emerald-aquamarine Quilotoa crater lake.
The Spine of the Andes (Salinas de Bolívar): Traverse the legendary “cross of the spine of the heart of the Andes,” transitioning into the highly successful community-owned cooperative network of Salinas.
The Chimborazo High Basecamp: Push your e-bike limits on the massive, sweeping volcanic deserts of Mt. Chimborazo—the closest point on Earth to the sun—reaching the first high-altitude basecamp.

Activities

E-Biking
Spa
Foodie
Culture
Wildlife

Activity level

Moderate

Skill Ratings

Skill Level 5 – Intermediate

Mostrar Detalles Skill Rating Information

SKILL LEVEL 1 – NEWBIE
You’ve never ridden a mountain bike before.

SKILL LEVEL 2 – BEGINNER
You have limited experience with off-road trail riding.

SKILL LEVEL 3 – NOVICE
You’re hooked on riding off-road and wide dirt trails (atv trails or doubletrack), but still lack the skills and confidence to consistently ride terrain with roots, rocks, tight corners, tight trees and steeps. Singletrack – what is singletrack?

SKILL LEVEL 4 – STRONG NOVICE
Your dedication to mountain biking has led you to your first handful of rides on real singletrack. You enjoy smooth mellow singletrack, although often the trees feel too tight, the climbs come too quick to shift and have you walking, and the obstacles have you a bit surprised as you did not even know people ride right over logs!

SKILL LEVEL 5 – INTERMEDIATE
At a controlled speed and on mellow singletrack terrain, you are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand. You are comfortable and confident rolling over small obstacles (a couple inches high) like roots, rocks and small rollable drops (a couple inches high). On rare occasions you take your wheels off the ground intentionally. You are now becoming comfortable in anticipating terrain and shift gears accordingly and you are comfortable using both front and rear brakes when required.

SKILL LEVEL 6 – STRONG INTERMEDIATE
You are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand and are comfortable doing so on more challenging terrain. You are comfortable and confident with a front wheel lift and rear wheel lift to get up and over larger obstacles (up to 6 inches) such as roots and rocks that are not rollable. When climbing you shift your bodyweight forward in efforts to keep traction on your front wheel. Climbing is typically successful, unless technical roots, rocks or corners have you walking a short section. You are comfortable with speed and letting go of your brakes as long as you can see the exit or end of the descent. You are also now grasping effective cornering techniques although still need to work on your timing and coordination.

SKILL LEVEL 7 – ADVANCED
You are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand and are comfortable doing so on aggressive terrain with little braking. You can hop over obstacles such as small roots and rocks that less advanced riders may wheel lift over. You use the brakes sparingly, and are open to taking some air off little rocks and roots. Your timing and coordination on all types of berms is solid. You are comfortable leaning your bike through the corner and exit with acceleration.

SKILL LEVEL 8 – EXPERT
You are comfortable riding a variety of singletrack which may include tight trees, mud, loose rocks and sand and are comfortable doing so on aggressive terrain with little braking. You rarely, if ever, walk. Small drops are no issue for you and you are comfortable with having both wheels leave the ground. Climbing technical roots, rocks and switchbacks are no issue for you. You use the brakes sparingly and air off of every rock, root and drop you can find. Your timing and coordination on all types of berms, switchbacks and corners is solid. You are comfortable leaning your bike through fast corners and exit with acceleration.

SKILL LEVEL 9 – PRO
You are a mountain bike god/goddess. You can handle the most technical terrain imaginable, eat up steeps for breakfast and can hit all the gaps, drops and jumps any trail throws at you.

Fitness Rating

Fitness Level 6

Mostrar Detalles Fitness Ratings Information

FITNESS LEVEL 1
You are a couch potato.
You cannot ride for more than half an hour on flat terrain at a time, and the thought of climbing on a bike is daunting.
You exercise less than 1 hour per week.

FITNESS LEVEL 2
You live a fairly inactive life with little physical activity other than walking.
You can handle a 1-hour bike ride on flat terrain at a relaxed pace.
Small, short hills are challenging to climb, but are sometimes manageable.
You exercise on average 1 hour per week (including riding a mountain bike).

FITNESS LEVEL 3
You are capable of 2 hours of pedal time in a day at a relaxed pace, as long as there are several breaks.
You can handle one or two easy climbs of up to 330 vertical feet (150 m) total.
You exercise on average 2 hours per week (including riding a mountain bike).

FITNESS LEVEL 4
You are capable of climbing up to 650 vertical feet (200 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 3 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 5
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 2-3 hours of pedal time each day.
You are confident climbing up to a total of 1,000 vertical feet (300 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 4 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 6
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle moderately steep climbs of up to a total of 1,650 vertical feet (500 m) in a day.
You exercise on average 5 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 7
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle moderate climbs up to 2,450 vertical feet (750 m) total in a day.
You exercise on average 6 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 8
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You have little trouble climbing 3,280 vertical feet (1,000 m) in a day on moderate to steep terrain.
You exercise on average 6-10 hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

FITNESS LEVEL 9
You are capable of riding at a moderate pace for an average of 3-4 hours of pedal time each day.
You can handle steep, sustained climbs of up to 4,920 vertical feet (1,500 m) in a day.
You exercise over 10-hours per week.
Your exercise regime includes a combination of endurance training like riding a bike and strength training.

Distance & elevation

Day 2: Pichincha Volcano Foothills to Tandayapa Valley & Mindo Cloud Forest

Day 3: Equator Solar Museum & Culebrillas Road to San José de Minas

Day 4: San José de Minas to Cuicocha Lagoon & Cotacachi

Day 5: Cotacachi to Peguche Weavers, Otavalo Market, & Hacienda Zuleta

Day 6: Zuleta to Cayambe to Hacienda Guachalá

Day 7: Cayambe-Coca Reserve: Oyacachi to Papallacta

Day 9: Papallacta to Pifo (Crossing the Continental Divide)

Day 10: Sangolquí into the Avenue of Volcanoes & Cotopaxi National Park

Day 11: Cotopaxi Control Norte to Inca Ruins, Santo Domingo Lagoon, & Hacienda La Ciénega

Day 12: Sacred Guingopana Mountain to Isinlivi & Quinticusig Wine Tasting

Day 13: Isinlivi to Guantualó, Toachi Canyon, Sigchos, & Chugchilán

Day 14: Chugchilán to Quilotoa Volcano Crater to Angamarca

Day 15: Angamarca to Salinas de Bolívar

Day 16: Salinas de Bolívar to Mt. Chimborazo First Basecamp to Andaluza

Day 18: Columbe to Alausí (Highland Farming Countryside)

Day 20: Ingapirca to Cuenca (Backroads & Farewell Dinner)

Season

Year around

Minimum age

8 years old

Full Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Quito City (9,350 ft / 2,850 m)

Your expedition begins in the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage capital city, framed by the active Pichincha volcano. Upon landing, a private transfer will bring you to your hotel in the city. At 6:00 PM, you will gather with your lead expedition guide for a comprehensive trip briefing, where you will review the upcoming digital GPS routes, , and discuss safety protocols for riding at high altitudes.

Overnight: Swissotel
Meals included: None

Day 2

Pichincha Volcano Foothills to Tandayapa Valley & Mindo Cloud Forest

Leaving the high ridges of Quito behind, your first ride descends the dramatic western slopes of the Andes Mountains. You will experience a profound ecological shift as you drop from the crisp Andean scrub into the lush, hyper-biodiverse Chocó-Andean Cloud Forest. This unique ecosystem is globally celebrated for its high concentration of endemic species, blanketed in dense bromeliads, orchids, and mosses, and alive with the buzzing of dozens of hummingbird species. You will navigate winding trails into the heart of the Tandayapa Valley before arriving in the eco-haven of Mindo, end the ride at the Chocolate factory.

Overnight: Terra Bambu or similar
Meals included: Lunch

Day 3

Equator Solar Museum & Culebrillas Road to San José de Minas

The day starts with a fascinating visit to the equatorial line at the Intiñan Solar Culture Museum, where you will stand at zero degrees latitude and learn about pre-colonial astronomical understandings. From there, you will launch your e-bikes down the ancient Culebrillas road, a historic corridor used by the pre-Inca Caranqui culture to connect the highlands with the subtropical valleys. Your ride winds down into San José de Minas, a beautifully isolated valley historically famed for its colonial sugarcane plantations and white stone quarries.

Overnight: Aguacate Lodge or similar
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4

San José de Minas to Cuicocha Lagoon & Cotacachi

Today’s route challenges your e-bikes with a steady climb up into the breathtaking Imbabura province to reach the spectacular Cuicocha Lagoon. This striking two-mile-wide active caldera lake rests at the foot of the extinct Cotacachi Volcano. Its Kichwa name, Kuychi-kocha, translates to "Rainbow Lake," though it is also known as the "Guinea Pig Lake" due to the shape of the massive volcanic islands rising from its mineral-rich, metallic-blue waters. After riding the volcanic rim, you will enjoy a sweeping downhill cruise into the peaceful town of Cotacachi, renowned for its generation of leather artisans.

Overnight: Yellow Guest House or similar

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5

Cotacachi to Peguche Weavers, Otavalo Market, & Hacienda Zuleta

You will pedal deep into the indigenous heartland of northern Ecuador today, starting with an immersive visit to an ancestral Kichwa family of master weavers in Peguche to see how hand-spun wool is dyed using natural plants and woven on traditional backstrap looms. Afterward, explore the vibrant, colorful tapestry of the world-famous Otavalo Market, a bustling trading hub that has functioned continuously since pre-Inca times. The day concludes with a scenic ride into a hidden valley to overnight at Hacienda Zuleta, a magnificent 17th-century working colonial estate and former home of Ecuadorian presidents, which now leads vital wild Andean Condor rehabilitation efforts.

Overnight: Hacienda Zuleta
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Zuleta to Cayambe to Hacienda Guachalá

Leaving the Zuleta valley, you will follow rural paved roads toward the base of the massive, snow-capped Mount Cayambe. You will pass through the bustling agricultural town of Cayambe to experience its famous culinary staples, sampling traditional wood-fired bizcochos (savory, flaky biscuits) paired with fresh leaf-cheese. From here, a short ride brings you to Hacienda Guachalá, a living monument recognized as the oldest hacienda in Ecuador, dating back to 1580. This historic estate famously hosted the French Geodesic Mission in 1736, a scientific team whose measurements helped prove the true shape of the Earth and mapped the equatorial line.

Overnight: Hacienda Guachalá
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Cayambe-Coca Reserve: Oyacachi to Papallacta

Today brings a rugged, remote alpine traverse across the southern boundary of the vast Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve. You will begin in the isolated, mist-shrouded indigenous village of Oyacachi, where hot thermal springs bubble up naturally through the valley floor. Your e-bikes will power up and over pristine mountain passes, cutting directly through the wet páramo ecosystem. This unique high-altitude wetland sponge consists of dense cushion bogs that capture glacial moisture, serving as the critical headwaters for both the Amazon River basin and the capital city below. You will finish the day dropping into the volcanic thermal valley of Papallacta.

Overnight: Termas de Papallacta
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8

Rest Day: Papallacta Thermal Springs

After a demanding week of high-altitude riding, today is dedicated entirely to physical recovery and relaxation. You can spend the hours soaking in the highly mineralized, volcanically heated thermal pools of Papallacta, which naturally range from soothingly warm to therapeutic hot zones. The resort rests in a crisp mountain valley, allowing you to enjoy the cool Andean air while submerged in the healing waters. Optional professional spa, mud, and hydrotherapy treatments are available to soothe tired muscles.

Overnight: Termas de Papallacta
Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Papallacta to Pifo (Crossing the Continental Divide)

You will climb back into the saddle to conquer one of the great geographic landmarks of the expedition: the crest of the Continental Divide. Riding along remote, unpaved backroads surrounded by stark páramo landscapes, you will reach the physical spine where the east and the west water systems are mathematically split. Standing on this windy ridge, any rainwater falling to your left gravity-drains down the Western Cordillera toward the Pacific Ocean, while water dropping to your right journeys thousands of miles east to the Atlantic Ocean via the Amazon River network. A long, rewarding descent leads you to your historic hacienda on the outskirts of Pifo.

Overnight: Hacienda La Jimenita or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10

Sangolquí into the Avenue of Volcanoes & Cotopaxi National Park

Your journey continues south out of the agricultural valley of Sangolquí, where your e-bikes will tackle a long, steady ascent onto the high volcanic plateau of Cotopaxi National Park. As you enter the park gates, you are riding directly into the "Avenue of Volcanoes," a famous geographic term coined by the legendary Prussian explorer Alexander von Humboldt in 1802 to describe the dramatic double row of towering volcanic peaks that flank this central Andean valley. You will pedal across vast, windswept plains beneath the perfectly symmetrical, glaciated cone of the active Cotopaxi Volcano.

Overnight: Tambopaxi Lodge or similar
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 11

Cotopaxi Control Norte to Inca Ruins, Santo Domingo Lagoon, & Hacienda La Ciénega

You will spend the morning exploring the ancient secrets preserved within Cotopaxi National Park. Your route guides you past the Pucará de Salitre, the stone ruins of a strategic military fortress built by the Inca Empire to monitor movement between the highlands and the Amazon basin. After pausing at the serene, high-altitude Santo Domingo Lagoon, you will enjoy a long downhill ride off the park’s southern flanks into the fertile valley of Lasso. Tonight is spent at Hacienda La Ciénega, a stunning 300-year-old stone estate that has miraculously survived multiple major volcanic eruptions of nearby Cotopaxi.

Overnight: Hacienda La Ciénega
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12

Sacred Guingopana Mountain to Isinlivi & Quinticusig Wine Tasting

Today you will push westward into the rugged, deeply creased valleys of the Western Cordillera. Your e-bikes will tackle a dramatic climb onto the high flanks of the sacred Guingopana Mountain, reaching altitudes of over 13,000 feet (4,003 m) for sweeping, panoramic views of the twin-peaked Ilinizas volcanoes. Descending down rural tracks toward Isinlivi, you will stop in the tiny hamlet of Quinticusig. Here, a local grassroots cooperative will introduce you to their unique production of artisanal wine crafted from wild mortiño (the native, high-altitude Andean blueberry).

Overnight: Llullu Llama Eco-Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13

Isinlivi to Guantualó, Toachi Canyon, Sigchos, & Chugchilán

This segment is visually spectacular as you navigate the dramatic topography of the famous Quilotoa Loop. You will ride through the indigenous market village of Guantualó before plunging down into the sheer, breath-taking walls of the Toachi River Canyon. This deep geological gorge showcases exposed, multi-colored volcanic strata and creates a unique dry-microclimate zone within the lush highland slopes. After cross-cutting the canyon floor, you will utilize your e-bike motors to climb back up out of the canyon, passing through historic Sigchos before ending the day in Chugchilán.

Overnight: Hostal Mama Hilda
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14

Chugchilán to Quilotoa Volcano Crater to Angamarca

A challenging, high-altitude morning climb leads you directly to the dramatic rim of the Quilotoa Volcano. Peering over the edge, you will be rewarded with views of its massive three-kilometer-wide volcanic caldera, filled with emerald-aquamarine water that continuously shifts colors depending on the sunlight due to heavy concentrations of dissolved sulfur and volcanic minerals. From the crater rim, you will turn south, tracing remote, wind-scoured ridges along dirt paths that lead to the isolated, seldom-visited mountain outpost of Angamarca.

Overnight: Angamarca Basic Accommodation
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15

Angamarca to Salinas de Bolívar

You will traverse one of the most rugged and legendary geographical crossings of the trip today: the "Spine of the Heart of the Andes." This remote dirt track cuts through isolated mountain gaps, navigating a patchwork of vertical agricultural plots tended by local indigenous families. Your destination is the alpine valley town of Salinas de Bolívar, a community globally celebrated for its inspiring cooperative economic model. Once a impoverished salt-mining village under a feudal landlord system, the community successfully united to build a network of highly successful artisan cheesemaking factories, chocolate production facilities, and wool-spinning cooperatives.

Overnight: El Refugio or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16

Salinas de Bolívar to Mt. Chimborazo First Basecamp to Andaluza

Today features an epic mountain ascent as you power your e-bikes onto the high-altitude volcanic sand flats known as El Arenal, which surround the base of Mount Chimborazo. You will push your bikes up to the Carrel Mountaineering Refuge, sitting at an astounding 15,900 feet (4,850 m) above sea level. Mount Chimborazo (20,548 ft / 6,263 m) is not only Ecuador's highest mountain, but due to the Earth's equatorial bulge, its glaciated summit stands mathematically as the closest point on the planet's surface to the sun. The day finishes with an exhilarating, long-distance downhill on the foothills of Chimborazo.

Overnight: Hacienda Andaluza
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 17

Rest Day: Hacienda Andaluza

After the intense physical output of conquering the high flanks of Mount Chimborazo, you will enjoy a complete day of rest and relaxation. Hacienda Andaluza offers a beautifully preserved colonial atmosphere, complete with manicured courtyards, historic art pieces, and antique lounges. You can spend the day strolling the grounds, enjoying the on-site spa amenities, or simply resting beside a roaring fireplace with a warm drink while taking in views of the surrounding peaks.

Overnight: Hacienda Andaluza
Meals included: Breakfast

Day 18

Columbe to Alausí (Highland Farming Countryside)

Your journey continues south along remote dirt tracks winding through the traditional indigenous agricultural heartland of Columbe. This region offers an intimate, authentic look at ancestral Andean farming practices, where rolling, steep hillsides resemble a vibrant patchwork quilt patterned with small plots of native potatoes, quinoa, and golden barley. You will navigate an undulating landscape, riding alongside local farmers and shepherds, before completing your ride in the historic, colorful railway town of Alausí.

Overnight: Hostería La Quinta or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 19

The Devil’s Nose Vista & Ingapirca Inca Complex

The morning begins with a visit to the dramatic viewpoints overlooking the legendary Nariz del Diablo (Devil's Nose), a near-vertical wall of rock that required early 20th-century engineers to cut a series of tight switchbacks into the cliff face to allow trains to pass. Afterward, a private vehicle will transport you south into the Cañar province to visit the Ingapirca Archaeological Complex. Here, you will take an in-depth historical walking tour of Ecuador's most significant Inca site, marveling at how the Inca built their unique, seamlessly fitted semi-elliptical Sun Temple directly on top of the older, sacred solar-lunar foundations of the native Cañari civilization.

Overnight: Posada Ingapirca
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 20

Ingapirca to Cuenca (Backroads & Farewell Dinner)

Your final day of riding takes you along quiet country lanes and historic rural corridors heading south toward the beautiful city of Cuenca. You will pass through peaceful valleys and small artisan villages, watching the rugged geography of the high Andes gently soften into the rolling hills of the southern highlands. Arriving in the colonial center of Cuenca, you will check into your hotel and gather in the evening for a celebratory farewell dinner, reflecting on the epic 21-day journey across the spine of Ecuador.

Overnight: Hotel Victoria
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 21

Departure from Cuenca

After breakfast, your epic trans-Andean e-bike expedition officially comes to a close. A private transfer will arrange your connection to the local airport for domestic flights back to Quito to catch your international flights home, or you can choose to extend your stay to explore the beautiful cobblestone streets, historic cathedrals, and vibrant riverfront of Cuenca.

Meals included: Breakfast

Let's design your adventure

Included

Professional, certified English-speaking lead cycling guide
Private support vehicle throughout the entire route (luggage transport, technical support, passenger transfer)
Premium Electric Mountain Bike (E-Bike), protective helmet, and riding gloves
20 nights of premium accommodation in double-room configurations (historic haciendas, hand-picked eco-lodges, and select rural guest houses). Single supplement available upon request for an additional fee.
High-quality meals as specified in the daily itinerary (focusing on fresh, local, farm-to-table cuisine)
Comprehensive daily trail hydration, fresh fruits, and high-energy trail snacks
Curated GPS tracks and route profiles for digital navigation

Not Included

Discretionary tips for the professional guiding team and support drivers
Comprehensive international travel and medical/evacuation insurance (mandatory)
Meals, drinks, and alcoholic beverages not explicitly listed in the itinerary
Personal expenses and optional spa/wellness treatments

Important Information

Itinerary Disclaimer: Even though we have a detailed itinerary, changes can be made by your guides, due to weather or safety reasons. Please also note that none of the wildlife sightings mentioned on the itinerary are guaranteed.
Visas and Passports: Make sure you check your visa and passport validity and requirements per country. It is important your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel.
Accommodation: We strive to use small and charming places that are unique and provide stellar service. - Single Supplement Costs: Generally, this fee is not incurred as we match you with another person of the same gender in a twin room, but if you prefer not to share and have your own room, then there will be an associated fee
Transportation: In Ecuador, car rides may take longer than anticipated due to the majestic Andean Mountains. However, we prioritize your comfort on every journey, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable travel experience throughout your trip.
Gear: We strive to provide the best gear possible for every trip. For this expedition, we utilize high-quality Italian brand e-bikes equipped with front air suspension, hydraulic brakes, and a 1 x 10 speed Shimano Deore drivetrain. Additionally, we provide lightweight helmets and gloves to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the ride.
Level of Activity: This expedition takes place in the breathtaking high elevation Andes. With the support of our e-bikes, you'll feel well-assisted throughout your journey. Rides can cover up to 30 miles in a day, but we pride ourselves on flexibility, allowing you to choose shorter or longer routes based on your group's preferences. The terrain will be diverse, featuring a mix of pavement, dirt, and sand, including both double and single tracks. Fortunately, the rides are not technical, making them accessible for all skill levels. Our experienced guides will be there to assist you in every step of the way, and transport support will be available for most of the journey, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Weather and Elevation: Although the islands are located on the equator, the Humboldt Current brings cold water to them, causing frequent drizzles during most of the year. The weather is periodically influenced by the El Niño events, which occur about every 3 to 7 years and are characterized by warm sea surface temperatures, a rise in sea level, greater wave action, and a depletion of nutrients in the water. During the season known as the garúa (June to November), the temperature by the sea is 22 °C (72 °F), a steady and cold wind blows from south and southeast, frequent drizzles (garúas) last most of the day, and dense fog conceals the islands. During the warm season (December to May), the average sea and air temperature rises to 25 °C (77 °F), there is no wind at all, there are sporadic, though strong, rains and the sun shines. Weather changes as altitude increases in the large islands. Temperature decreases gradually with altitude, while precipitation increases due to the condensation of moisture in clouds on the slopes. There is a large range in precipitation from one place to another, not only with altitude, but also depending on the location of the islands, and also with the seasons. The precipitation also depends on the geographical location. During March 1969, the precipitation over Charles Darwin Station, on the southern coast of Santa Cruz was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), while on Baltra Island, the precipitation during the same month was only 137.6 mm (5.42 in). This is because Baltra is located behind Santa Cruz with respect to the prevailing southerly winds, so most of the moisture gets precipitated in the Santa Cruz highlands. There are significant changes in precipitation from one year to another, too. At Charles Darwin Station, the precipitation during March 1969 was 249.0 mm (9.80 in), but during March 1970, it was only 1.2 mm (0.047 in). On the larger islands, the pattern of generally wet highlands and drier lowlands impacts the flora. The vegetation in the highlands tends to be green and lush, with tropical woodland in places. The lowland areas tend to have arid and semi-arid vegetation, with many thorny shrubs and cacti, and almost bare volcanic rock elsewhere.
Sustainability: 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.
Guides: All our guides have a professional background from the Tourism University; this means they have a degree in guiding, so their knowledge and skills when leading a group are top-notch. Each guide has many years of experience and they all have taken additional courses for other outdoor activities as well as have International First-Aid certifications. On top of all of this, they are all extremely personable and strive to deliver travel experiences of a lifetime.
Heath advices: no vaccinations needed for this trip

Packing list

This comprehensive packing list will ensure you are well-prepared for your thrilling e-bike adventure through the stunning landscapes of Ecuador!

Clothing

Moisture-wicking base layers (shirts and long pants)
Insulating layer (fleece or lightweight jacket)
Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants (for rain and wind protection)
Comfortable biking shorts (preferably with padding)
Biking Jerseys (preferably with long sleeves)
Lightweight hiking pants (for off-bike activities)
Thermal leggings (for cooler temperatures)
Warm hat and gloves (for high elevation)
Sun hat or cap (for sun protection)
Socks (preferably moisture-wicking; bring several pairs)
Underwear (enough for the trip duration)
Swimsuit (spa)

Footwear

Sturdy biking shoes (compatible with your pedals)
Comfortable sandals or shoes (for relaxation and walking)
Warm socks (for evenings and downtime)

Gear and Accessories

Lightweight backpack or hydration pack (to carry essentials)
Helmet (if not provided)
Gloves (if not provided; biking gloves recommended)
Portable charger or power bank (for devices)
Camera or smartphone (for capturing memories; consider a waterproof case)
Binoculars (optional, for wildlife viewing)

Personal Items

Sunscreen (high SPF; waterproof preferred)
Insect repellent (especially for evenings)
Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
Medications (any personal prescriptions)
First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.)
Reusable water bottle (to stay hydrated; consider insulated)
Towel (quick-dry for spa or post-ride)

Optional Items

Snacks (energy bars, trail mix, etc. for the rides)
Travel guide or map (for exploring)
Notebook and pen (for journaling your adventure)

Documents

Passport (and photocopies for safety)
Travel insurance information
Emergency contact information

Regular Season Price:

All premium features
Apply on these dates

Price 2 - 3 guests

^$6790_{/per person}

All premium features
Every day

Price 4 or more guests

^$5100_{/per person}

All premium features
Every day

Go private

We are ready to meet your needs and put together an unforgettable experience.