Bike on volcanic trails and explore the diverse landscapes of the Galapagos Islands. The volcanic terrain offers a unique and challenging biking experience, allowing you to witness the geological wonders of the archipelago.
Visit the local brewery and enjoy a wine tasting experience. As part of the itinerary, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Santa Cruz Brewery and taste their craft beers. This cultural experience will give you a taste of the local flavors and traditions.
Share time with the local people and learn about their culture and way of life. This itinerary emphasizes cultural interactions, allowing you to meet and learn from the local people. You'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in their traditions and gain insights into their way of life.
Stay at unique places in every location, immersing yourself in the beauty of the islands. Throughout the trip, you'll stay at carefully selected accommodations that showcase the beauty and unique character of each location. This ensures that you have a comfortable and memorable experience.
Be led by top Activexpedition experienced guides at every step you take. Your biking adventure will be guided by experienced and knowledgeable guides from Activexpedition. They will provide you with insights into the local environment, wildlife, and culture, ensuring that you have a safe and enriching experience.
Support sustainable travel to preserve the unique culture and nature of the Galapagos Islands. The itinerary is designed to promote sustainable travel practices, with a focus on minimizing environmental impact and supporting local communities. By participating in this trip, you contribute to the preservation of the unique culture and nature of the Galapagos Islands.
The Galapagos Biking 8-Day Itinerary offers a range of exciting activities:
Biking: Explore the islands on two wheels, riding on volcanic trails and through farmlands. This allows you to cover more ground and experience the diverse landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.
Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Galapagos. The islands are known for their pristine beaches and inviting waters, providing the perfect opportunity for a swim.
Snorkeling: Discover the underwater world and encounter marine life up close. The Galapagos Islands are home to a rich and diverse marine ecosystem, offering incredible snorkeling opportunities.
Culture: Interact with the local people and learn about their traditions and way of life. This itinerary includes cultural experiences that allow you to gain insights into the local culture and engage with the communities.
Wildlife: Observe the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands, including giant tortoises, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. The islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife encounters.
The Galapagos Biking 8-Day Itinerary is designed for individuals with a moderate activity level. While biking is a key component of the trip, the routes are carefully selected to cater to a range of fitness levels. The itinerary allows for breaks and rest periods, ensuring that participants can enjoy the biking experience at their own pace.
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 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.
Year around
The Galapagos Islands can be visited year-round, as they offer a unique and diverse experience regardless of the season. Each season brings different wildlife encounters and weather conditions, making the islands an exciting destination throughout the year.
8 years old
To participate in the Galapagos Biking 8-Day Itinerary, the minimum age requirement is 8 years old. This ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants, as well as the ability to participate in the activities included in the itinerary.
Full Itinerary
Arrival in Quito
Overnight: Wyndham Garden Hotel or similar
City Tour By Bike in Quito
Biking distance: 15 miles
Max elevation: 2850 m. (9350 ft.)
Overnight: Wyndham Garden Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Travel to the Galapagos
This island is home of many iconic native and endemic species of this enchanted archipelago such us: blue footed boobies, penguins, frigate birds, flamingos, marine iguanas, giant tortoises among others.
Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Biking to the Wall of Tears
Along the bike trails there are also optional stops for higher lookouts where you can observe more beautiful landscapes.
After visiting the Wall of Tears, we will explore the flamingo lagoon and the tortoise breeding center.
Biking distance: 15 miles
Max elevation: 150 m. (492 ft.)
Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Biking to the Sierra Negra Volcano and Farmlands
Biking distance: 24 miles
Max elevation: 1000 m. (3280 ft.)
Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch and beer tasting.
Free Day
Overnight: Cormorant Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Biking to Garrapatero Beach and Brewery
Later, visit the Santa Cruz Brewery and taste their craft beers, especially their IPAs are considered some of the best ones in whole Ecuador.
Enjoy your final night on the Galapagos exploring the pubs in Puerto Ayora on Friday night.
Biking distance: 23 miles
Max elevation: 200 m. (656 ft.)
Overnight: Pelican Bay Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Return to Quito and International Connections
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
LET'S DESIGN YOUR ADVENTURE
Top Experienced Certified English-Speaking Guide
Airport transfers
Land and water transport
Accommodation for seven nights
Meals according to the itinerary
Water and snacks at all times
Biking gear: Hybrid bikes, certified helmets, and gloves
Snorkeling gear: Mask and fins
International or domestic flights
Galapagos transit control card (INGALA)
Galapagos National Park fee
Isabela Island fee
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips for guides and drivers
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Optional activities
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: We assure your comfort during transit no matter the size of the group, while in the Galapagos the speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela can be a bit challenging if you are not use to travel by boat, so we highly recommend to carry some seasickness medicine with you.
Level of Activity: This trip is considered as 3 out of 5. Participants need to have some experience for riding bikes on different kind of terrains like pavement, dirt, gravel and sand. However our guides will always provide assistance in any kind of situation.
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
We do recommend travelling light for this expedition. A duffel bag of 50 litters for your luggage and a backpack of 20 litters for daily activities should be sufficient. In Ecuador and The Galapagos, the weather can change drastically so please be ready.
Passport
Credit card
Three pairs of shorts
Two bathing suit
Three biking jersey
Two non-cotton T-shirts
One cotton T-shirts
One water T-shirt
One fleece
One rain jacket
Two buffs
One pair of tennis shoes
Optional biking shoes and cleat pedals
Optional personal helmet
One pair of water sandals (chacos or keens)
One pair of flip flops
One- or two-night outfits
One cap or hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Mosquito repellent
Camera (if posible gopro)
Head lamp
Optional binoculars
NOTE: Laundry is available almost at every location and it is cheap, this helps traveling light too.
Regular Season Price:
PRICE
$2200/per person
All premium features
Go private
We are ready to meet your needs and put together an unforgettable experience.
