Train Route – Rails to Trails

Exploring the former railway tracks that have been transformed into the captivating "Rails to Trails" route offers outdoor enthusiasts an exceptional cycling adventure. This scenic trail winds through diverse landscapes, revealing Inca ruins and stunning vistas of towering peaks and serene lakes. As riders traverse the picturesque terrain, they’ll not only enjoy a remarkable exercise experience but also gain insights into the rich history that has shaped this remarkable region. Whether seeking a challenge or simply a chance to take in breathtaking natural beauty, the "Rails to Trails" route promises an unforgettable journey.

Key Points

• The tour follows a former railway track that has been converted into a scenic trail for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Participants can explore the Coyoctor Archaeological Complex and the Baño del Inca thermal spring during the tour.
• The trail offers diverse landscapes, including lush meadows, towering peaks, ancient Inca ruins, and serene lakes and streams.
• The tour requires a moderate fitness level and provides private transportation, bicycles, helmets, and a box lunch.
• The tour is led by a certified guide and includes mechanical support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Tour Overview

The Train Route – Rails to Trails tour is a highly-rated 5.0-star experience located in Cuenca, Ecuador.

Priced from $96.00 per person, the tour offers private transportation, use of bicycles and helmets, a box lunch, bottled water, and a certified tour guide.

Mechanical support is also included, along with tickets to the Coyoctor Archaeological Complex and Baño del Inca.

The tour starts at 8:00 am from Parque San Sebastián, and returns to the same meeting point.

Participants should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Train Route – Rails to Trails tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the cycling experience.

The tour provides:

1. Private transportation to the starting point and back to the meeting location.
2. Use of a bicycle and helmet for the duration of the tour.
3. A box lunch and bottled water to keep participants fueled and hydrated.

Plus, the tour is led by a certified guide and includes mechanical support, as well as tickets to the Coyoctor Archeological Complex and Baño del Inca.

These inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable cycling adventure through the scenic landscapes of Cuenca, Ecuador.

Meeting and Pickup

At the meeting point located at Mariscal Sucre 15-27, Cuenca, Ecuador (on the corner of Parque San Sebastián and Museo de Arte Moderno), the Tour Route – Rails to Trails experience begins promptly at 08:00 am.

Participants will meet their certified tour guide at this location and then set off on their bicycles for the day’s adventure.

The tour concludes back at the same meeting point.

Pickup options are available for those who need transportation to the starting location.

Health and Safety

Before embarking on the Train Route – Rails to Trails experience, it’s important to consider the health and safety requirements.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems and other serious medical conditions. A moderate physical fitness level is required to fully enjoy the bike ride.

The tour involves:

1. Cycling through diverse terrain and landscapes.
2. Navigating hills and potential uneven surfaces.
3. Exposure to varying weather conditions.

Participants should ensure they’re physically prepared and disclose any relevant medical conditions to the tour guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Customer Reviews

With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, the Train Route – Rails to Trails experience in Cuenca, Ecuador has clearly impressed past participants. Reviewers praised the tour guide Adrian’s knowledgeable commentary on the trail’s history and his ability to accommodate diverse skill levels. The stunning natural scenery, featuring diverse vegetation, was also a highlight. The experience seems to offer an enjoyable workout complemented by beautiful views. Take a look at the review summary below for more details on what past travelers have said about this tour.

Reviewer	Rating	Comment
Anonymous	5 stars	"Adrian was incredible! Knowledgeable about the history of the trail and accommodating for different skill levels. The trail was gorgeous with diverse vegetation and scenery. Highly recommend for a fun workout with good views!"
Anonymous	5 stars	–

Exploring the Rails to Trails

Embarking on the Rails to Trails adventure, travelers are treated to a captivating journey through Cuenca’s picturesque landscapes. This exhilarating bike tour offers a unique perspective as it follows the former railway tracks, now transformed into a trail for outdoor enthusiasts.

The highlights of this experience include:

1. Exploring the Coyoctor Archeological Complex, where ancient ruins provide a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

2. Visiting the Baño del Inca, a natural thermal spring that has been a local attraction for centuries.

3. Enjoying a delightful box lunch amidst the stunning scenery, refueling for the journey ahead.

With private transportation, professional guides, and all necessary equipment provided, the Rails to Trails tour promises an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.

Scenic Highlights Along the Way

The trail winds its way through a tapestry of verdant landscapes, offering cyclists a captivating panorama of Cuenca’s natural splendor.

Riders pass by lush meadows, where wildflowers dot the scene with vibrant hues. Towering peaks rise in the distance, their snow-capped summits gleaming in the sunlight.

The path also traverses ancient Inca ruins, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Serene lakes and babbling streams add to the tranquil ambiance, creating a perfect blend of natural and historical wonders.

With every turn, the scenic vistas grow more breathtaking, making the Rails to Trails journey a truly unforgettable experience.

Preparing for the Adventure

Cyclists ready themselves for the Rails to Trails adventure by ensuring they’ve the proper gear and equipment. This includes:

1. Wearing sturdy, comfortable cycling attire and shoes with good traction.

2. Bringing a lightweight backpack or hydration pack to carry essentials like snacks, water, and sun protection.

3. Checking their bicycles for proper functioning, including brakes, tires, and gears, to ensure a smooth and safe ride.

The tour provides bicycles and helmets, but participants are encouraged to bring their own if they prefer.

Preparing adequately helps cyclists make the most of this scenic and exhilarating journey through the Ecuadorian countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle for the Tour?

The tour operator allows participants to bring their own bicycles. However, they also provide bicycles and helmets as part of the tour package, so it’s not necessary to bring your own bike unless you prefer to use your own equipment.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There is no minimum group size requirement for this tour. The price varies based on the group size, so you can book the tour regardless of the number of participants.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch or Is It Provided?

The tour includes a box lunch, so travelers don’t need to bring their own. The lunch is provided as part of the tour package, along with private transportation, use of a bicycle and helmet, and other amenities.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?

Customers can extend the tour to visit additional sites, though this may incur an additional cost. The tour operator can provide more information on customizing the itinerary to include extra destinations during the experience.

Is There Any Option to Customize the Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator offers options to customize the itinerary. Travelers can discuss their interests with the guide and adjust the tour to visit additional sites or attractions along the rails-to-trails route.

Recap

The Rails to Trails route offers an exceptional cycling adventure, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and historical significance. Riders can enjoy the diverse landscapes, from lush meadows to ancient ruins, while enjoying breathtaking views of towering peaks and serene lakes. This unique experience provides both exercise and exploration, making it an enriching and unforgettable journey for outdoor enthusiasts.