The Alya Luxury Cruise will...
Expedition Overview
Join the most spectacular cycling adventure in Ecuador! Bike through the Andean mountains and tropical lush jungles while enjoying stunning landscapes of active volcanoes, craters, lakes, diverse wildlife and remote villages populated by traditional cultures
Itinerary
DAY 1: BIKING IN COTOPAXI
Biking in Cotopaxi
We will begin this adventure traveling south on the Pan American highway for 2 hours through The Avenue of Volcanoes, named like this by the famous German explorer Alexander Von Humboldt. On the way, enjoy views of volcanoes such as Cayambe, Antisana, Pichincha, Illinizas, Pasochoa, and Corazon. Once we enter the park we will drive on the high alpine line where we will learn from our guide about the flora and fauna of the Paramo ecosystem, along the road we will cross a pine forest and with some luck, you could spot a whitetail deer.
Begin your journey in The Avenue of Volcanoes and start biking at an elevation of 13000 feet. Travel along a dirt road where wild horses and bulls roam, surrounded by the remains of the last eruption of Cotopaxi, which took place about 140 years ago. From here we will ride on an exciting single track all the way to the Pucara Inca Ruins, where our guides will prepare a delicious lunch for you. In the afternoon, we will continue on our way 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.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or Double
Lunch. 
Dinner
DAY 2: PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS
Papallacta Hot Springs
On this day, after breakfast, we will drive to the western part of the Ecuadorian Andes, our first stop is at the Guango Hummingbird Reserve, here enjoy the ability to view about 20 species of these marvelous birds, all while enjoying a cup of coffee or some amazon tea. Later, we continue to the Papallacta resort to check in at your cabin with location right in front of the pools of volcanic water. Today, have lunch on your own as there are plenty of choices for restaurants that offer traditional food, in the afternoon we will go for a hike in the nearby cloud forest in search of orchids, bromeliads and several other different species of flora; with some luck you could observe some birds such us tanagers, trogons, warbler, flycatchers and even a condor.
The rest of the day and night is yours to enjoy the volcanic hot springs and the Spa treatments high in the midst of the cool Andes.
Hiking time: From 2 to 3 hours depending on the weather.
Hiking Distance: 2 miles ( 3,2 Km)
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (152 m)
What to wear: T-shirt, hiking pants, tennis shoes, rubber boots for rent at the reserve, bring rain gear in your day pack as well as binoculars.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast. Lunch.
DAY 3: BIKING IN CAYAMBE COCA
Biking in Cayambe Coca
Travel upon a precious, exclusive road with no traffic in this high region. This is a special experience because this ecological reserve is very remote and pristine with little influence from people. While descending from 13000 ft (3962 m) to 9000 ft (2743 m), enjoy the views of the Andean fields and witness the surroundings of grassland and colorful flowers, with occasional deer and rabbits crossing. This park is home of the Spectacled Bear, the only species in South America. Enjoying views of the Andean fields, the local people from the region depend much upon the agriculture of products like potato, corn, fava beans, lupine, etc.
We arrive at the Hacienda to check-in during the early afternoon, later we will do an optional bike ride of 20 minutes each way to the Equator monument to learn a bit more of the Latitude 0.
Biking time: From 2 to 4 hours.
Biking Distance: Miles 35 ( 56 Km)
Elevation Gain: 350 feet ( 106 m ) optional elevation gain 3000 feet
What to wear: Biking shorts or pants, t-shirt, fleece, biking or tennis shoes, biking gloves.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast. Lunch. Dinner
DAY 4: BIKING TO OTAVALO & SAN PABLO LAKE
Biking to Otavalo & San Pablo lake
In the morning, venture for about 1 hour to the point where we start biking. It will be along a beautiful paved road that surrounds the Imbabura Volcano and experience the great views of the San Pablo Lake and the small indigenous villages of this province. During our journey, we will stop to visit a weavers workshop and learn how they make their tapestries. Lunch is on your own and the rest of the afternoon is for you to explore the Otavalo Indigenous Market. Here you will find the best souvenirs for the best prices, and most importantly most of the products are made locally by families from the area. The main things you will find here are ponchos, tapestries, blankets, jewelry, etc. In the late afternoon we will go to the hacienda for a welcome drink and a delicious dinner.
Biking time: From 2 to 4 hours
Biking Distance: 18 miles ( Km )
Elevation Gain: Optional 1000 feet ( 304 m )
What to wear: Biking shorts, t-shirt, biking or tennis shoes, biking gloves
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast. Lunch.
DAY 5: BIKING INTO PULULAHUA
Biking into Pululahua
Today we will drive for two hours heading south on the Pan-American highway, the first stop will be in Tabacundo town to see the rose shops. Most of the people in this town depend on the rose farms, they are considered among the top 5 largest businesses of Ecuador. Afterwards, we continue to the dry valley of Guayllabamba and stop for tasting the local fruit such as chirimoya.
Our bike ride will start at the small village of Yunguilla and will enter the Pululahua Crater on a dirt road into the beautiful Cloud forest. There is actually a geobotanical reserve that is taking place inside the collapsed caldera of this old volcano. According to the experts, an immense eruption occurred here thousands of years ago and left these great formations, specifically the lava domes in the center of the volcano. While descending on our bikes, every curve will offer a chance to enjoy the amazing scenery, the two wheel adventure will finish in the center of the caldera. We will have lunch prepared by our driver and guide; and in the afternoon it is optional to hike out the volcano, otherwise we continue back to Quito. Today our trip will end and you will have your International departures. Take with you your memories and photos and leave a piece of your heart, as you will want to return to Ecuador soon to experience more of this enchanted land. We wish you a “buen viaje”!
Biking time: From 2 to 4 hours.
Biking Distance: 15 miles ( 24 Km )
Elevation Gain: 350 feet ( 106 m ) Optional 1500 feet ( 457 m )
What to wear: Water t-shirt, shorts, sandals, expedition hat.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleLunch. Dinner
What to Expect
Accommodation: Hotel
Location: ecuador - quito
Season: year-round
Meeting Point: Quito
Trip Type: Land Tours, Adventure
Activity: Biking
Activity List
1
.- Bike the hidden trails around the biggest highlights in Ecuador, explore Cotopaxi Volcano national park, downhill to Mindo Cloud Forest, immerse in the Pululahua Crater and surround San Pablo Lake.
2
.- Relax in Papallacta Hot Springs resort
3
.- Enjoy barging in Otavalo Indigenous Market
4
.- Experience deep cultural encounters with local people in the Andes visiting Sacha Warmy women project.
Additional options
Pre-Post Trip Accommodation
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night
Transfers
Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person
What is the food like?
Throughout the adventure, you'll be fueled by delicious local food, such potato soup, corn, fresh vegetables with plenty of local fresh tropical fruits. Lunch usually consists of nice picnic self-service in the mountains and local restaurants that serve traditional soup, main dish and juice, a warm and filling meal after a big day of adventure.
What is the accommodation like?
Ecuador Inland
During your journey you'll stay in local own charming hotels with their own personality such us; Experience colonial hacienda Pinsaqui in the Andes, and a beautiful Spa Mountain lodge with natural springs like Papallacta. they are all with excellent location and fantastic personalized service.
General Specifications
STARTS
Sheraton – Quito
Upon arrival on Day 1 - 07:00am
ENDS
Sheraton – Quito
Upon arrival on Day 6 – 18:00
TRANSFERS
Your adventure begins in Quito on Day 1, at Swissotel at 7:00am when your host will meet our IE Guide and the group. We highly recommend to get thar one day earlier and check the extra services we provide extra nights. Your trip will end on day 7 at Quito by Wyndham Garden hotel at 18:00 approximately.
To make your own way from Quito airport to the hotel accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.
What´s Included
✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation
Private and comfortable land transportation
Accommodations
Based in double occupancy: 1 night in Papallacta Resort, 3 nights in Colonial Haciendas.
Activities
Biking in Cotopaxi National Park, Biking in Cayambe Coca ER, Biking to Otavalo, Biking into Pululahua Crater, Hiking in Papallacta, Soaking in volcanic hot springs.
Meals
4 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner
Gear
Trek X caliber, 29 inches wheels, rockshox suspension, hydraulic brakes, bontrager helmets.
Guides
Certified expert English-speaking adventure guide and local guides.
Trek X caliber, 29 inches wheels, rockshox suspension, hydraulic brakes, bontrager helmets.
🚫 WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Accommodation
Single Supplement USD 329
Airport transfers
Airport transfer (international flights)
Insurance
Travel & health insurance (mandatory)
Meals
Not described in the itinerary
Tips
For local guides, IE trip leaders & staff
What to bring?
What do I need to bring
Passport
Travel insurance
Airline tickets
Fleece top
Shirts/t-shirts
Watch or alarm clock
Quick dry clothing
Flashlight
Swimming suit
Water bottle
Tennis shoes
Sunglasses
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, antihistamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.
Credit or debit card
Buff
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Biking Shorts
Biking full fingers gloves
Long trousers or light hiking pants
Extra formal clothing for the nightlife optional while in Quito
Sport sandals (Chacos, keens or similar)
Flip flops
Expedition hat
Binoculars
Insect repellent
Sun cream 50 SPF
Camera – waterproof if possible
FAQS
What is the minimum age for this trip?
8 years old as a minimum age.
What is the currency?
US American Dollars
What Travel Insurance do you recommend?
World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000
What vaccinations do I need?
For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.
What’s the weather like?
Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.
Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).
What Do I Do about drinking water?
The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.
How much should I tip?
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service
Expedition Overview
Join the most spectacular cycling adventure in Ecuador! Bike through the Andean mountains and tropical lush jungles while enjoying stunning landscapes of active volcanoes, craters, lakes, diverse wildlife and remote villages populated by traditional cultures
Itinerary
DAY 1: BIKING IN COTOPAXI
Biking in Cotopaxi
We will begin this adventure traveling south on the Pan American highway for 2 hours through The Avenue of Volcanoes, named like this by the famous German explorer Alexander Von Humboldt. On the way, enjoy views of volcanoes such as Cayambe, Antisana, Pichincha, Illinizas, Pasochoa, and Corazon. Once we enter the park we will drive on the high alpine line where we will learn from our guide about the flora and fauna of the Paramo ecosystem, along the road we will cross a pine forest and with some luck, you could spot a whitetail deer.
Begin your journey in The Avenue of Volcanoes and start biking at an elevation of 13000 feet. Travel along a dirt road where wild horses and bulls roam, surrounded by the remains of the last eruption of Cotopaxi, which took place about 140 years ago. From here we will ride on an exciting single track all the way to the Pucara Inca Ruins, where our guides will prepare a delicious lunch for you. In the afternoon, we will continue on our way 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.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleLunch. Dinner
DAY 2: PAPALLACTA HOT SPRINGS
Papallacta Hot Springs
On this day, after breakfast, we will drive to the western part of the Ecuadorian Andes, our first stop is at the Guango Hummingbird Reserve, here enjoy the ability to view about 20 species of these marvelous birds, all while enjoying a cup of coffee or some amazon tea. Later, we continue to the Papallacta resort to check in at your cabin with location right in front of the pools of volcanic water. Today, have lunch on your own as there are plenty of choices for restaurants that offer traditional food, in the afternoon we will go for a hike in the nearby cloud forest in search of orchids, bromeliads and several other different species of flora; with some luck you could observe some birds such us tanagers, trogons, warbler, flycatchers and even a condor.
The rest of the day and night is yours to enjoy the volcanic hot springs and the Spa treatments high in the midst of the cool Andes.
Hiking time: From 2 to 3 hours depending on the weather.
Hiking Distance: 2 miles ( 3,2 Km)
Elevation Gain: 500 feet (152 m)
What to wear: T-shirt, hiking pants, tennis shoes, rubber boots for rent at the reserve, bring rain gear in your day pack as well as binoculars.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast. Lunch.
DAY 3: BIKING IN CAYAMBE COCA
Biking in Cayambe Coca
Travel upon a precious, exclusive road with no traffic in this high region. This is a special experience because this ecological reserve is very remote and pristine with little influence from people. While descending from 13000 ft (3962 m) to 9000 ft (2743 m), enjoy the views of the Andean fields and witness the surroundings of grassland and colorful flowers, with occasional deer and rabbits crossing. This park is home of the Spectacled Bear, the only species in South America. Enjoying views of the Andean fields, the local people from the region depend much upon the agriculture of products like potato, corn, fava beans, lupine, etc.
We arrive at the Hacienda to check-in during the early afternoon, later we will do an optional bike ride of 20 minutes each way to the Equator monument to learn a bit more of the Latitude 0.
Biking time: From 2 to 4 hours.
Biking Distance: Miles 35 ( 56 Km)
Elevation Gain: 350 feet ( 106 m ) optional elevation gain 3000 feet
What to wear: Biking shorts or pants, t-shirt, fleece, biking or tennis shoes, biking gloves.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast. Lunch. Dinner
DAY 4: BIKING TO OTAVALO & SAN PABLO LAKE
Biking to Otavalo & San Pablo lake
In the morning, venture for about 1 hour to the point where we start biking. It will be along a beautiful paved road that surrounds the Imbabura Volcano and experience the great views of the San Pablo Lake and the small indigenous villages of this province. During our journey, we will stop to visit a weavers workshop and learn how they make their tapestries. Lunch is on your own and the rest of the afternoon is for you to explore the Otavalo Indigenous Market. Here you will find the best souvenirs for the best prices, and most importantly most of the products are made locally by families from the area. The main things you will find here are ponchos, tapestries, blankets, jewelry, etc. In the late afternoon we will go to the hacienda for a welcome drink and a delicious dinner.
Biking time: From 2 to 4 hours
Biking Distance: 18 miles ( Km )
Elevation Gain: Optional 1000 feet ( 304 m )
What to wear: Biking shorts, t-shirt, biking or tennis shoes, biking gloves
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleBreakfast. Lunch.
DAY 5: BIKING INTO PULULAHUA
Biking into Pululahua
Today we will drive for two hours heading south on the Pan-American highway, the first stop will be in Tabacundo town to see the rose shops. Most of the people in this town depend on the rose farms, they are considered among the top 5 largest businesses of Ecuador. Afterwards, we continue to the dry valley of Guayllabamba and stop for tasting the local fruit such as chirimoya.
Our bike ride will start at the small village of Yunguilla and will enter the Pululahua Crater on a dirt road into the beautiful Cloud forest. There is actually a geobotanical reserve that is taking place inside the collapsed caldera of this old volcano. According to the experts, an immense eruption occurred here thousands of years ago and left these great formations, specifically the lava domes in the center of the volcano. While descending on our bikes, every curve will offer a chance to enjoy the amazing scenery, the two wheel adventure will finish in the center of the caldera. We will have lunch prepared by our driver and guide; and in the afternoon it is optional to hike out the volcano, otherwise we continue back to Quito. Today our trip will end and you will have your International departures. Take with you your memories and photos and leave a piece of your heart, as you will want to return to Ecuador soon to experience more of this enchanted land. We wish you a “buen viaje”!
Biking time: From 2 to 4 hours.
Biking Distance: 15 miles ( 24 Km )
Elevation Gain: 350 feet ( 106 m ) Optional 1500 feet ( 457 m )
What to wear: Water t-shirt, shorts, sandals, expedition hat.
Food & Accommodation
Hotel – Twin or DoubleLunch. Dinner
What to Expect
Accommodation: Hotel
Location: ecuador - quito
Season: year-round
Meeting Point: Quito
Trip Type: Land Tours, Adventure
Activity: Biking
Activity List
1
.- Bike the hidden trails around the biggest highlights in Ecuador, explore Cotopaxi Volcano national park, downhill to Mindo Cloud Forest, immerse in the Pululahua Crater and surround San Pablo Lake.
2
.- Relax in Papallacta Hot Springs resort
3
.- Enjoy barging in Otavalo Indigenous Market
4
.- Experience deep cultural encounters with local people in the Andes visiting Sacha Warmy women project.
Additional options
Pre-Post Trip Accommodation
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Twin/ Double) - USD 100 Per Night
Pre- post trip accommodation in Quito (Single) - USD 100 per Night
Transfers
Private airport transfer - USD 38 per person
What is the food like?
Throughout the adventure, you'll be fueled by delicious local food, such potato soup, corn, fresh vegetables with plenty of local fresh tropical fruits. Lunch usually consists of nice picnic self-service in the mountains and local restaurants that serve traditional soup, main dish and juice, a warm and filling meal after a big day of adventure.
What is the accommodation like?
Ecuador Inland
During your journey you'll stay in local own charming hotels with their own personality such us; Experience colonial hacienda Pinsaqui in the Andes, and a beautiful Spa Mountain lodge with natural springs like Papallacta. they are all with excellent location and fantastic personalized service.
Ships & Deck Plans
Specifications
General Specifications
STARTS
Sheraton – Quito
Upon arrival on Day 1 - 07:00am
ENDS
Sheraton – Quito
Upon arrival on Day 6 – 18:00
TRANSFERS
Your adventure begins in Quito on Day 1, at Swissotel at 7:00am when your host will meet our IE Guide and the group. We highly recommend to get thar one day earlier and check the extra services we provide extra nights. Your trip will end on day 7 at Quito by Wyndham Garden hotel at 18:00 approximately.
To make your own way from Quito airport to the hotel accommodation, you have a few options. You can request a private transfer from the host. Please see Optional Extras for prices. You can take a public bus for just $2USD, however, this isn't overly straight forward as you need to change buses at Quitumbe bus terminal. A metered taxi will cost you between $25-35USD. You can save some money by taking an 'Aeroservicio' - a privately operated bus service connecting the airport with the city center. This cost is USD 8.
5
days
FROM $1,175
What´s Included
✅ WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation
Private and comfortable land transportation
Accommodations
Based in double occupancy: 1 night in Papallacta Resort, 3 nights in Colonial Haciendas.
Activities
Biking in Cotopaxi National Park, Biking in Cayambe Coca ER, Biking to Otavalo, Biking into Pululahua Crater, Hiking in Papallacta, Soaking in volcanic hot springs.
Meals
4 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner
Gear
Trek X caliber, 29 inches wheels, rockshox suspension, hydraulic brakes, bontrager helmets.
Guides
Certified expert English-speaking adventure guide and local guides.
Trek X caliber, 29 inches wheels, rockshox suspension, hydraulic brakes, bontrager helmets.
🚫 WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Accommodation
Single Supplement USD 329
Airport transfers
Airport transfer (international flights)
Insurance
Travel & health insurance (mandatory)
Meals
Not described in the itinerary
Tips
For local guides, IE trip leaders & staff
What to bring?
What do I need to bring
Passport
Travel insurance
Airline tickets
Fleece top
Shirts/t-shirts
Watch or alarm clock
Quick dry clothing
Flashlight
Swimming suit
Water bottle
Tennis shoes
Sunglasses
First-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, antihistamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking.
Credit or debit card
Buff
Rain jacket
Rain pants
Biking Shorts
Biking full fingers gloves
Long trousers or light hiking pants
Extra formal clothing for the nightlife optional while in Quito
Sport sandals (Chacos, keens or similar)
Flip flops
Expedition hat
Binoculars
Insect repellent
Sun cream 50 SPF
Camera – waterproof if possible
FAQS
What is the minimum age for this trip?
8 years old as a minimum age.
What is the currency?
US American Dollars
What Travel Insurance do you recommend?
World Nomads Insurance with a coverage of USD 200 000
What vaccinations do I need?
For Ecuador Highlands, Covid vaccination is required.
What’s the weather like?
Seasons in Ecuador have nothing to do with temperature – instead there is a dry season and a wet season. In Ecuador, the winter season is hot and wet, and the summer is dry and cold. Ecuador’s dry, summer season falls between May and December. January to April is Ecuador’s wet wintertime. There is not much of a transition between the seasons.
Most of Ecuador has mild temperatures year-round. In the highlands of the Andes, the temperatures are usually cooler and depend of the altitude mainly, the higher the colder, The average temperature in Quito is in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (17 – 18 degrees Celsius). But the average temperature by the snow-cover volcanos can be mid-50s Fahrenheit (10 – 13 degrees Celsius).
What Do I Do about drinking water?
The tap water in Ecuador is not always friendly on the stomach for those who haven’t been in Latin America for a while. There is purified water in each of the accommodation which you can use to fill up each morning, so be sure to pack a reusable water bottle or two. There will also be water in the transportation.
How much should I tip?
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice; however, we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
Guides: USD 10- USD 15 per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service