Private - Cotopaxi Biking Adventure Day Tour

Quito , Ecuador

Private - Cotopaxi Biking Adventure Day Tour

Active

6h - 8h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Cotopaxi with 19397 feet above the sea level, is considered as the highest active volcano on earth, it is located in the central Andes of Ecuador, it is part of the National Park of the same name, and its main attractions are; Cotopaxi Volcano, Rumiñahui Volcano, wild horses and bulls, the remains of the last eruption of the volcano have left amazing landscape formations and nowadays are part of great biking paths.

Important Note: A minimum of 2 passengers is required for this trip

Available options

Private - Cotopaxi Biking Adventure Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Lunch

Use of bicycle

Gear: Trek X caliber, 29 inches wheels, rock shock suspension, hydraulic brakes, bontrager helmets.

Certified AJ expert English-speaking Adventure Trip Leader

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We begin this adventure driving south on the pan American highway for about 2 hours, this area is known as The Avenue of Volcanoes, it was named like this by the famous German Explorer Alexander Vond Humboldt, on the way you might be able to enjoy views of volcanoes like Cayambe, Antisana, Pichincha, Illinizas,

Pasochoa and Corazon.

Once we enter the park we will drive on the high alpine line, and we will learn from our local guide about the flora and fauna of the Paramo Ecosystem, along the road we will cross a pine tree forest and with some luck you could spot a white tail deer.

The biking experience will start at 13000 feet of elevation and will take place on a dirt road surrounded by the remains of the last eruption of Cotopaxi that was about 140 years ago, we will see wild horses and bulls along the road, and later we will ride on a fun single track all the way to the Pucara Inca Ruins, here our guides will prepare some delicious lunch for you. Then in the afternoon we will continue riding for about 1 hour to the Hacienda Santa Ana.

Biking time.- from 2 to 4 hours

Biking Distance.- 20 miles ( 32 Km)

Elevation Gain.- 300 feet ( 91 m)

What to wear.- Biking shorts or pants, t-shirt, fleece, biking or tennis shoes.

What's not included

Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.