Half Day Bike Tour Discovering Quito

Explore the vibrant city of Quito on a captivating half-day bike tour that promises an unforgettable adventure. This comprehensive excursion takes participants on a scenic journey through the city’s historic landmarks, lush parks, and bustling plazas, offering a unique perspective of the Ecuadorian capital. Outfitted with comfortable bicycles and essential safety gear, riders embark on a 3-4 hour exploration, seeing Quito’s rich culture and heritage. From the iconic Basilica of the National Vow to the lively Plaza Grande, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that tantalizes the senses and leaves visitors eager to discover more.

Key Points

• 3-4 hour bike tour starting at 9:00 am from a central meeting point near Plaza Foch in Quito.
• Visits key landmarks like Basilica of the National Vow, Plaza Grande, and Guapulo viewpoint while providing historical insights.
• Includes comfortable bicycles, safety equipment, snacks, and a chocolate tasting experience.
• Suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
• Highly rated tour with 100% recommendation rate and positive customer feedback on the overall experience and value.

Tour Overview

The "Half Day Bike Tour Discovering Quito" offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to Ecuador’s capital city.

This 3-4 hour tour departs at 9:00 am from a central meeting point near Plaza Foch.

With 11 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the tour provides excellent value, starting at $48 per person.

Participants will explore Quito’s historic landmarks, including the Basilica of the National Vow, Plaza Grande, and Guapulo viewpoint, while learning about the city’s early 20th-century architecture and significant events.

The tour includes the use of a bicycle, safety equipment, snacks, and a chocolate tasting, making it an engaging and well-rounded experience for visitors to Quito.

Itinerary Highlights

The half-day bike tour in Quito begins at Plaza Foch, where participants gather for a welcome and technical talk.

From there, the group rides to the historic Parque El Ejido, known for its heritage plants and significant events.

The tour then visits key stops, including:

• The Basilica of the National Vow, an iconic Neo-Gothic church
• Plaza Grande, the main square surrounded by colonial architecture
• Guapulo viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the city
• Various parks, providing a glimpse into Quito’s green spaces

Throughout the journey, the guide shares engaging historical insights, allowing participants to discover Quito’s unique character from the comfort of their bicycles.

Included Features

Included in the cost of the half-day bike tour is the use of a comfortable bicycle, safety equipment like helmets and gloves, as well as a tasty assortment of snacks.

Plus, you will enjoy a fine aroma chocolate tasting, providing a delightful sensory experience. Gratuities are also covered, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free tour.

The tour also includes admission to the Basilica of the National Vow, allowing visitors to explore this architectural marvel.

With these features, the tour offers a well-rounded and immersive experience, catering to the needs and preferences of the participants.

Participant Guidelines

As for the participant guidelines, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

The tour is also not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, though most travelers can still participate.

Plus, the tour company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility for participants.

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating	5.0/5
Number of Reviews	11
Recommendation Rate	100%

Exploring Plaza Foch

The tour begins at Plaza Foch, a vibrant hub in Quito’s Mariscal neighborhood. The guide welcomes the group and delivers a technical talk, setting the stage for the cycling adventure ahead.

Participants explore the area’s early 20th-century architecture, marveling at the ornate buildings that once housed the city’s aristocracy. The plaza’s bustling energy is palpable, with street vendors, cafes, and a lively nightlife scene.

Cyclists take in the sights, soak up the atmosphere, and prepare to set off on the next leg of the tour, eager to uncover more of Quito’s hidden gems.

• Ornate early 20th-century architecture
• Vibrant street life and local culture
• Engaging technical talk by the guide

Visiting Parque El Ejido

From Plaza Foch, the group seamlessly transitions to their next stop, Parque El Ejido.

This historic park is known for its heritage plants and significant events that have taken place here over the years. The guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the park’s cultural significance and its role in Quito’s history.

Riders have the opportunity to explore the lush greenery and admire the architecture that surrounds the park. The 30-minute visit allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of Quito’s rich heritage and the importance of this community gathering space.

With each stop, the tour continues to unveil the city’s hidden gems, offering a unique perspective on the capital’s vibrant culture.

Discovering Quito’s Landmarks

Departing from Parque El Ejido, the tour guides the group towards several of Quito’s most iconic landmarks.

The first stop is the Basilica of the National Vow, a neo-Gothic cathedral known for its distinctive architecture and intricate stone carvings.

Next, the group explores the historic Plaza Grande, surrounded by government buildings and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

The final landmark is the Guapulo viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panorama of Quito’s picturesque skyline.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture, providing a comprehensive understanding of Quito’s architectural and historical significance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle for the Tour?

The tour company doesn’t allow participants to bring their own bicycles. They provide the bikes and safety gear as part of the tour package to ensure a consistent experience for all guests.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour is not specifically designed for children, but most travelers can participate. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, and it’s not wheelchair accessible.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour itinerary does not explicitly mention scheduled restroom breaks. However, the duration of the tour is approximately 3-4 hours, so there may be opportunities to visit restrooms during the stops at various parks and landmarks along the way.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. The tour operator is flexible and can accommodate requests, allowing travelers to tailor the experience to their preferences.

What Should I Bring With Me for the Bike Tour?

For the bike tour, travelers should bring comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and any necessary personal items like sunscreen or a camera. The tour provides safety equipment like helmets and gloves, as well as snacks and a chocolate tasting.

Recap

The Half Day Bike Tour Discovering Quito offers a unique way to explore the city’s history and culture. Participants can look forward to a scenic ride, visiting iconic landmarks, and enjoying a delightful chocolate tasting experience. With comfortable bicycles, safety equipment, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an engaging and memorable adventure for anyone interested in discovering Quito’s vibrant sights and rich heritage.