3-Day Bike&Hike – Cotopaxi-Quilotoa-Chimborazo: the Heart of the Andes

Embark on an exhilarating three-day journey through Ecuador’s stunning Andes with the "3-Day Bike&Hike – Cotopaxi-Quilotoa-Chimborazo" tour. This expertly curated adventure takes travelers from the breathtaking slopes of Cotopaxi National Park to the mesmerizing Quilotoa Crater Lake and the majestic Chimborazo volcano. Along the way, explorers will experience thrilling mountain biking, scenic hikes, and immersive cultural interactions, all while enjoying top-notch accommodations and local cuisine. With personalized attention in small groups, this unforgettable expedition promises to unveil the heart of the Andes in a way that’s truly captivating.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best 3 Day Tours In Quito.

Key Points

• This 3-day tour explores the stunning natural wonders of Ecuador’s Andes, including Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Crater Lake, and the majestic Chimborazo volcano.
• Participants will enjoy a mix of biking and hiking activities at high altitudes, seeing the region’s breathtaking landscapes and local Quechua culture.
• The tour provides high-quality equipment, private transportation, and comfortable accommodations, ensuring a seamless and personalized experience for small groups.
• Fitness requirements are moderate, but the activities may be challenging for those with limited mobility or serious medical conditions, so prior consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.
• With an average 5.0 rating from 15 customers, the tour is consistently praised for its scenic highlights, knowledgeable guides, and overall quality and value.

Overview of the Tour

This tour, titled "3-day Bike&Hike – Cotopaxi-Quilotoa-Chimborazo," takes travelers on an adventurous journey through the stunning landscapes of Ecuador’s Andean region.

Located near Quito, the tour lasts three days and accommodates small groups for personalized attention. Reviews are excellent, with an average 5.0 rating from 15 customers. The price starts at $435 per person.

Over the course of the trip, you will explore Cotopaxi National Park, the vibrant Quilotoa Crater Lake, and the majestic Chimborazo volcano, while engaging in both hiking and mountain biking activities.

Included amenities, such as private transportation, dinners, and accommodations, ensure a comfortable and immersive Ecuadorian experience.

Cotopaxi National Park Exploration

How does the adventure begin on the first day of this 3-day tour?

The day starts early with a 07:00 AM departure from Quito. After a 1.5-hour drive, travelers arrive at the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park.

The group first visits the Visitors Center to learn about the park’s natural wonders before ascending to an altitude of 4,500 meters (15,000 feet).

The highlight of the day is a thrilling mountain bike ride down 8 km of dirt roads, descending 700 meters. This exhilarating descent offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Cotopaxi volcano, the second-highest active volcano in the world.

Quilotoa Crater Lake Adventure

On the second day, travelers embark on an early hike to the captivating jade-colored Quilotoa Crater Lake. The descent takes around 30 minutes, but the ascent back up requires a more strenuous 60-minute effort. For those seeking an easier return, an optional mule or donkey ride is available. After the hike, a delicious breakfast is followed by an exciting mountain bike ride to the town of Zumbahua. There, travelers enjoy a picnic lunch and have the opportunity to interact with the local Quechua indigenous community.

Trail	Duration
Descent	30 minutes
Ascent	60 minutes
Mule/Donkey Ride	Optional

[NEXT SUBTOPIC]:
Chimborazo Ascent and Downhill Bike Ride

Chimborazo Hike and Bike Ride

After exploring the captivating Quilotoa Crater Lake, the tour moves on to the mighty Chimborazo, the highest mountain in Ecuador.

The group drives to the base of the mountain, then embarks on a hike to the Edgar Whymper Refuge, situated at an impressive 5,000 meters.

From there, they embark on a thrilling 70-kilometer downhill bike ride through the Andean highlands, descending over 3,500 meters to the city of Ambato.

Travelers are rewarded with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and rolling countryside during this exhilarating leg of the adventure.

With the support of knowledgeable guides, hikers and bikers alike can push their limits and enjoy the grandeur of Ecuador’s highest volcano.

Included Amenities and Accommodations

This tour includes a range of amenities and accommodations to enhance the overall experience.

Participants have the use of high-quality bicycles and protective gear, including helmets and gloves. Private transportation is provided throughout the trip, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.

Dinners and most meals are included, allowing travelers to enjoy the local cuisine without additional costs. Accommodations are also provided, ensuring a comfortable place to rest after each day’s activities.

With these inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences this tour offers.

Pickup and Transportation Details

The tour’s meeting point is La Pinta & Reina Victoria in Quito, where participants can be picked up.

Pickup options are available from specified hotels in the city.

The tour then departs Quito at 7:00 AM and travels 1.5 hours to the entrance of Cotopaxi National Park.

At the end of the 3-day adventure, the tour returns back to the original meeting point in Quito.

Private transportation is provided throughout the itinerary, allowing participants to focus on the cycling and hiking activities without worrying about logistics.

This convenient pickup and transportation setup ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.

Fitness and Health Considerations

The tour’s moderate fitness level requires participants to have a reasonable degree of physical fitness.

Strenuous hiking and biking at high altitudes are involved, so a certain level of cardiovascular endurance is necessary.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the physical demands.

Guests should consult with their healthcare providers if they’ve any concerns about their ability to participate.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

While the guides provide excellent support, travelers with limited mobility may find the terrain and activities challenging.

Customer Experiences and Highlights

Travelers consistently praise the breathtaking scenery and unique experiences offered on this three-day bike and hike tour through the Ecuadorian Andes.

Many describe the tour as a life highlight, emphasizing the stunning landscapes they encountered. Guides like Roberto, Paul, and Jorge receive high praise for their friendliness, support, and extensive local knowledge, which enriches the experience.

Accommodations and meals are also highlighted as excellent, further enhancing the overall satisfaction. Reviewers overwhelmingly rate the tour with five stars, underscoring the exceptional quality and value.

This bike and hike adventure through Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and Chimborazo provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the natural wonder of the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Bikes Are Provided for the Tours?

For the tours, the operator provides mountain bikes with protective gear like helmets and gloves. The bikes are well-suited for the terrain and descents on the tour’s activities.

Are Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Meals?

The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Travelers should inform the company of any special needs when booking, and the staff will ensure their meals meet their dietary requirements.

Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead of Using the Provided Ones?

Guests can bring their own bikes, but the tour provides high-quality mountain bikes and protective gear. Using the provided equipment ensures proper fit and functionality for the demanding terrain throughout the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Days?

Yes, the tour operator offers the option to extend the tour or add additional days. Travelers can customize their itinerary to explore more of the Ecuadorian Andes at an additional cost. This allows for more flexibility and personalization of the experience.

Do the Guides Speak English Fluently in Addition to Spanish?

The tour guides on this 3-day Bike&Hike adventure in Ecuador speak both English and Spanish fluently, providing personalized attention and knowledgeable insights throughout the stunning landscapes of Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, and Chimborazo.

Recap

This remarkable 3-day Bike&Hike tour through Ecuador’s Andes offers an unforgettable adventure. Travelers will revel in the stunning landscapes, from the iconic Cotopaxi to the serene Quilotoa Crater Lake and majestic Chimborazo. With thrilling outdoor activities, culture, and top-notch accommodations, this tour provides an exceptional experience for those seeking to explore the heart of the Andes.