Andes to the Amazon: Ecuador Adventure

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Andes to the Amazon: Ecuador Adventure
Duration:
10
Days
Priced from:
3299.00
USD

Andes to the Amazon: Ecuador Adventure

Trip Overview

ngt-tours-of-a-lifetime2.jpg(Biking, Hiking, Whitewater Rafting, and Horseback Riding)  This award-winning adventure itinerary boasts the finest adventure travel in Ecuador.

Over 10-days on our Ecuador adventure, we traverse from the high and dry Altiplano to the lush rainforest of the Amazon Basin. We hike the mist-draped highlands of the jagged Andes, mountain bike through authentic Quechua villages, navigate rafts through bubbling breakers of world-class rivers, and ride horses on mountainous trails alongside friendly locals.

This self-propelled multi-sport adventure tour explores the great diversity of this South American jewel.

WOW FACTORS

  • Hiking the rim of the crater lake of Cuicocha before biking downhill through small indigenous villages
  • Whitewater rafting down the rushing waves of the Jatunyacu River
  • Mountain biking around the lakeshore of San Pablo
  • Horseback riding through the foothills of Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world

Check out our Ecuador Highlights video below

Difficulty Level

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Itinerary & Map

Day 1

Quito
Arrival
A BikeHike Adventures representative will greet you at the airport and transfer you to a comfortable hotel in the city. The remainder of the evening is at leisure to explore Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Meals: none

Day 2

Quito - San Pablo - Otavalo
Biking
Please be ready in the lobby at 8am after eating breakfast. We start with a drive northbound to the beautiful lake of San Pablo before reaching the town of Otavalo, world famous for its handicraft market. We’ll spend 1-2 hours shopping for souvenirs. After lunch, our physical adventure begins. We get into our biking gear and set off on fat tire mountain bikes, pedaling on paved, cobblestone and dirt roads around the lakeshore of San Pablo through indigenous villages and past fertile corn fields. In the late afternoon we reach our cozy countryside inn for dinner and overnight accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3

Cuicocha - Cayambe
Hiking & Biking
After a wholesome and hearty breakfast we drive to a beautiful lake that is located inside the volcanic cauldron of Mojanda. We ascend today from 2,500 m / 8,250 ft up to 3,900 m / 14000 ft where we start our hike to the summit of Fuya Fuya at 4,300 m / 14,190 ft. The views of the collapsed crater of Mojanda are stunning. The total distance of the hike, up and down, is 3 km / 2 mi. Afterwards we return to our vehicle and drive to the nearby crater lake of Cotacachi for a typical lunch in a restaurant that is located on the rim of the volcano. After lunch we get on our mountain bikes and glide downhill through small indigenous villages for 11 km / 6 mi, all the way to the town of Cotacachi, famous for leather handicrafts. We´ll visit the shops and then shuttle back to our hacienda in the countryside for a big dinner and a relaxing evening in front of the fireplace. 

Hiking: 4 km / 3 mi
Biking: 11 km / 6 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Cayambe - Papallacta
Hiking & Hotsprings
After breakfast we drive southeast to Papallacta, ascending to an altitude of 4,300 m / 14,300 ft. From here we'll hike four to five hours through a pristine high mountain landscape, full of lakes and surrounded by volcanoes. With some luck we'll see deer, condors and potentially even spectacled bears! The conditions can be challenging with slippery, muddy terrain and quickly changing weather. We'll overnight at the Papallacta Hot Springs, famous for their steamy pools. In the afternoon, we will enjoy the resort with leisure time to relax any sore muscles in the therapeutic hot springs.

Hiking: 10 km / 6 miles
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5

Papallacta - Tena
Biking
This morning we bike from the high mountain to the cloud forest! We start from our hotel and follow the scenic Quijos and Cosanga River gorges to the town of Baeza. The change of temperature and scenery is dramatic! After lunch, we drive to the town of Misahualli where we embark on a 1.5 hour motorized canoe ride down the Napo River, deep into the Amazon where we will check into a basic jungle hotel run by the indigenous Quechua people. Once settled in, we have the option to do a one hour night hike. This is a great time to see some of the nocturnal animals that inhabit the jungle. 

Biking: 63 km / 39 mi 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6

Amazon
Jungle Hiking
We’ll rise early, have breakfast then gear up for our jungle adventure. A native Quechua guide will lead us on a 2.5 hour hike through primary and secondary rainforest, teaching us about the plants, insects, birds, animals, etc that we may encounter. We then get onto a long wooden raft built by the locals, for a float down the Napo River. We'll return to our jungle hotel for lunch and then head back out to visit an indigenous family to see how people live in this part of the country and learn about their customs and culture. Dinner and overnight at the same basic jungle hotel.

Hiking: 3 km / 2 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7

Jatunyacu River - Baños
Whitewater Rafting
We switch gears today and set off for a day of whitewater adventure on the mighty Jatunyacu River, which means “big water” in Quechua. Donned in helmets and lifejackets, we cast off the riverbank and blast through big and bouncy standing waves. Being one of the main rivers that form the mighty Amazon River, this wide river has the perfect combination of exciting rapids, calm pools, and dense jungle. Depending on the water level, there will be some opportunities to jump out of the raft and refresh in the cool water. Late afternoon we drive to the town of Baños, a village in the bottom of a fertile valley surrounded by lush and tropical mountains. Baños is famous because of the Tungurahua Volcano, which last erupted in the summer of 2006. 

Rafting: 28 km / 17 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8

Baños
Biking & Hiking
Early this morning we'll head to the Pastaza River Gorge to visit some of the region’s thundering waterfalls. After a hike to the Pailon del Diablo Waterfall (the Devil’s pot) we’ll have some lunch then change to our biking gear. The rest of the day is on two wheels, riding 20 km / 13 mi on scenic dirt, paved and cobblestone roads with rolling hills and views of the active volcano Tungurahua. Overnight at the same hotel, located just outside the city of Baños.

Biking: 20 km / 13 mi
Hiking: 2 km / 1 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9

Baños - Cotopaxi National Park - Quito
Horseback Riding    
We drive 2.5 hours in the morning to a beautiful hacienda on the slopes of Cotopaxi, often considered the highest active volcano in the world! Here we'll saddle up on horses and spend a few hours cantering along dirt paths and open fields amongst a barren and bold volcanic landscape. If we have a clear day, over a dozen volcanoes will be visible, many of them active. In the afternoon we shuttle by vehicle 2 hours back to our hotel in Quito.

Horseback riding: 8 km / 5 mi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10

Quito
Departure
You’ll be transferred to the international airport for connecting flights home.

Meals: Breakfast

What's Included

TRIP INCLUSIONS:
All accommodation (twin shared), meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), 24-speed mountain bikes, internal transportation, airport transfers and English-speaking guides.

TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE:
International airfare, airport departure taxes, gratuities, meals not indicated and items of a personal nature.

MEALS:
9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 5 Dinners

ACCOMMODATION:
Hotel: 9 Nights

Trip Facts

Weather in Ecuador

Although Quito and the central highlands are on or near the equator, the altitude is between 7,000 and 10,000 ft. (2,100 and 3,000 meters) and the weather is surprisingly comfortable year round. Temperatures are usually in the 70's °F (mid 20's °C) during the day, and in the 50's °F (around 12°C) when the sun goes down. The rainy and dry seasons vary depending on your location. In the jungle, tropical temperatures average around 82°F (28°C). Rainfall is common year round, especially from June to November. At this time the jungle is at its luxurious best and most of the rivers are navigable.

Weather in Andes Region (including Quito)

November to May: Wet season. Most rain falls as quick afternoon showers.
June to September: Dry season.

Weather in Amazon Basin

In the Amazon Basin there is rain year-round. Average temperatures year-round are 30°C to 32°C (86 to 90°F). 

Weather in Galapagos Islands

January to May: Hot season with clear skies and intense sun. Average temperature is 30°C (86°F). Water temperature is warm, 26°C (79°F), and the water is calm.
June to December: Season is cooler. Average temperature is 27°C (81°F). The sun is less intense but there is still little rain.

Travel Documents

To enter Ecuador, you must hold a current passport valid for six months beyond your date of departure. There are no visas required for people travelling with Canadian or American passports. Citizens of other countries should check with the local embassy for updated information on entry requirements.

Food and Water

Recommended Ecuadorian dishes include cuy (the local delicacy of guinea pig), ceviche, (seafood marinated in lemon, onions, and spices), and llapingachos (fried mashed potato and cheese pancakes). While in Ecuador, it is best to drink only bottled water or treated tap water. This also pertains to brushing your teeth. Fruit drinks, soft drinks, coffee and tea are all widely available and safe to drink.

FAQ

How big are BikeHike's groups?

Our adventures are built for small groups, with a maximum of 12 travellers on each guided tour. Each group is diverse, comprised of men and women of many different nationalities and ages. By travelling in small groups we leave minimal ecological impact, cause less disruption to the native life and are able to gain a better appreciation for our surroundings. Small numbers also allow greater flexibility and spontaneity: a dinner in a local home, an impromptu village wedding invite and any such experiences that can become among the most memorable experiences of your BikeHike adventure.

How fit do I need to be to join this trip?

We understand that people come in many fitness levels, so we've graded our trips accordingly. There are four difficulty levels on our trips: Easy, Moderate, Challenging, and Strenuous.

This is a “moderate” trip. This trip includes 4-5 hours of physical activity throughout the day, with many breaks along the way. The biking portion is the most cardiovascular portion of the trip, but there is always a support vehicle available. During the biking section, you don’t have to carry anything on your back as backpacks can be carried in the support vehicle.  During the hiking portion of the trip, the most you would have to carry on your back is a daypack.

Are there altitude considerations on this trip?

The Andes to the Amazon adventure is a high altitude trip and it is necessary to take precautions while travelling at altitudes above 9,000 ft / 2,750 m. Upon arrival in Ecuador, it is important to take it easy for the first couple of days, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid the consumption of alcohol and heavy meals. The highest altitude we reach is 14,300 feet / 4,300 m for 15 minutes (this is at the trail head of the hike on Day 4). The highest hotel we stay at is at 11,000 feet / 3,300 m (Termas de Papallacta).

Has this trip been run before?

BikeHike Adventures has been operating since 1994.

The logistics of organizing tours to remote corners of the world can be very complex. Our trip development department spends long hours researching destinations, routes, ground operations and equipment. All itineraries are screened without clients before they are added to our growing repertoire of adventures. Nothing is untested.

Can you tell me about your typical BikeHike travellers on this trip?

Our travellers share a common love for outdoor adventure. Most are looking for a physical adventure in an unfamiliar destination. A typical trip is comprised of men and women, in good physical condition, who exercise regularly and are invigorated by a personal challenge. The age range on this trip is typically from 30-60, although we occasionally get younger and older travellers as well.

Will I require vaccinations to travel to Ecuador?

We cannot give official medical advice. We advise you to contact your nearest travel clinic for updated information on health requirements, because this information can and does change frequently. You should plan ahead for your inoculations, as some of them require 30 days to take affect. Some shots cause mild reactions (fatigue to mild fever and nausea) and may require more than one dose over a period of weeks.

A good website for current information is The Centre for Disease Control. The provinces you visit on this trip include Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, Chimborazo, Imbaburra, Pichincha, Napo (Amazon) and Pastaza.

Do you need a visa to enter Ecuador?

There are no visas required for people with a Canadian or American passport. For citizens of other countries please check your local embassy for updated information on entry requirements.

How should I pack for this trip?

The Andes to the Amazon adventure is a demanding trip with a route that passes through varied terrain, altitudes and climatic regions. It is not unusual to bike in downpours, hike in colder temperatures or bake in the hot sun. In order to ensure comfort and health, good equipment is essential. We have prepared a packing list that you can download by clicking the link to the right on this page.

Is it possible to use foreign cell phones or wifi while traveling in Ecuador?

Yes, wifi and cell reception is available in some areas, mainly in the cities. Most hotels are equipped with wifi. However, you’ll likely be without wifi most of the day and while hiking and biking, there are many areas where cell reception is unavailable.

Which airports do we fly in and out of for this trip?

Quito. You can arrive anytime on day 1 of the trip and depart anytime on day 10.

What is the best time of the year to go on a trip to Ecuador

Anytime of the year is good for Ecuador. The country is full of microclimates, so some areas will be the rainy season and other areas will be the dry season. When in the mountains it will be colder than when you are in the rainforest. In the mountains, you will need to wear lots of layers to keep warm, whereas the jungle will be hot and shorts and t-shirts will suffice.

Can you tell me more about the activities?

Biking

We will cycle on varied terrain from country paved and cobblestone roads to uphill winding dirt roads and downhill switchbacks. There is a good mix of up and downhill stretches with some sections following an abandoned railway line. On average we will be cycling 5 - 6 hours per day at a steady pace. The mountain biking isn't technical riding, however you might have to watch your line to avoid some rocks, etc. Our support vehicle will be close behind so wary riders can catch a lift if the need arises.

Rafting

Ecuador is renowned for its exciting whitewater rivers and attracts rafting and kayaking enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. Each self-bailing raft holds a guide who steers, and six participants – all of which paddle. We will be rafting on the Jatunyacu River on this adventure, rated Class II-III on the difficulty scale.

It is no problem if this is your first time rafting. Before the start of the adventure, you will be given a full safety briefing. When rafting, you must wear a lifejacket and a helmet. If the water levels are too high and the river is dangerous, the guides will come up with a plan B for the day.

Hiking

This adventure includes four days with hiking activities. These hikes range between two and six hours in length, and include moderate to challenging uphill excursions. The hiking is always a day trip with no gear required apart from a light daypack.

Horseback Riding

On horses we will follow our guide along a network of trails and back roads at a gentle walking / trotting pace. For those who want to run with the horses, the option is available when the terrain is appropriate.

Does this trip have e-bikes?

Ecuador does not have availability for E-bikes at this time.

Can I take this trip if...

I am a solo traveller? How does solo accommodation and costing work?

Many of our travellers (both men and women) join as singles. On average, BikeHike groups are 75% single travellers and 25% couples. Unlike many adventure travel companies, we don't charge single supplement fees to solo travellers. Instead, we pair you with another traveller of the same gender. If we can't find you a roommate, you get your own room at no additional charge. A single private room supplement fee is only required if you specifically request a confirmed private room for the duration of the trip. Learn more about solo travel with BikeHike

I have special dietary requirements?

We will do our best to accommodate special dietary requests (e.g. vegetarian, gluten free, etc.), but ask that you please discuss your request with us when signing up for a trip.

I am travelling with children? Is this trip child friendly?

While most of our trips are created with adults in mind, many of our itineraries are suitable for strong and active teenagers. This trip is generally not a family focused trip for young children. However, we do offer many Family Focused trips, some of which are able to accommodate children as young as six.

Accommodation

Most of our trips include comfortable mid-range accommodations. This includes accommodation that provides a clean and comfortable experience in characterful surroundings that reflect the destination. To build stronger connections with the communities and support the local economies, we avoid using large international chain brands on BikeHike trips. 

This trip includes the following types of accommodation:

HOTELS

In an effort to keep money in the communities we visit around the world, BikeHike prefers small hotels, bungalows, and haciendas that showcase the character and local flair of each destination.

Learn more about the types of accommodation styles we have on offer at each trip destination.

Adventure Dates

  • Mar 29 - Apr 07, 2024
  • May 17 - May 26, 2024
  • Jul 12 - Jul 21, 2024
  • Sep 06 - Sep 15, 2024
  • Nov 08 - Nov 17, 2024
  • Dec 20 - Dec 29, 2024
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Price

(Land only, based on twin/shared room)
3299.00
USD
per person

No single supplement fees
** Guaranteed departures on two travellers

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Add-Ons

Day Destination Activity Distance Lodging Meals
1
Quito
Arrival
Hotel
2
Quito - San Pablo - Otavalo
Biking
28 km
14 mi
Hotel
b,
l,
d
3
Cuicocha - Cayambe
Hiking & Biking
Hiking 4 km (3 mi)
Biking 11 km (6 mi)
Hotel
b,
l,
d
4
Cayambe - Papallacta
Hiking & Hotsprings
10 km
6 mi
Hotel
b,
l
5
Pappallacta - Tena
Biking
63 km
39 mi 
Hotel
b,
l,
d
6
Amazon
Hiking
3 km
2 mi
Hotel
b,
l,
d
7
Jatunyacu River
Whitewater Rafting
28 km
17 mi
Hotel
b,
l,
d
8
Baños
Biking & Hiking
Biking 20 km (13 mi)
Hiking 2 km (1 mi)
Hotel
b,
l
9
Baños - Cotopaxi National Park - Quito
Horseback Riding
8 km
5 mi
Hotel
b,
l
10
Quito
Departure
b

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KR
Kostas R
November 21, 2019
5

Jorgen is an extraordinary man. His knowledge of Ecuador is amazing. He knows every mountain top, every volcano, every trail, every fruit, every food. He knows the locals, their customs and went above the call of duty as our guide to make sure we experienced the true nature of Ecuador.

We asked him if we could have cuy while in Ecuador and he arranged for us to have a cuy lunch after calling his friends in one of the nearby towns. During our stay in Banos and while the volcano Tungurahua was erupting, after dinner Jorgen suggested we drive to a nearby smaller mountain where we could see the eruptions. It was by far the highlight of our trip, and we are still trying to figure out who was more excited, the group or Jorgen. Jorgen loves the outdoors, loves people and we think that him being our guide made the trip of of the top trips of our lifetime!!

Medford, MA
DS
Dianne S
March 8, 2019
5

Our Bike Hike Adventure family tour with Jorgen in Ecuador 10 years ago was among our most amazing life experiences thus far!!! Certainly hope to join on another adventure sometime!

New Orleans, USA
BM
Brian M
July 30, 2018
5

Just ended a 10 day trip to Ecuador. Amazing trip and amazing guide!

Midvale, UT, USA
ST
Sven T
January 21, 2018
5

I have done two BikeHike adventures – Ecuador and Costa Rica. Both adventures have been incredible experiences. What is most distinct about BikeHike is the opportunity to experience and see parts of the country and locals that you would not see if you planned your own tour. The guides are excellent at teaching you about the culture, and introducing you to people and places which they are personally connected to.
BikeHike's got a large catalog of destinations, so I think I'll be busy for the next decade or so.

Vancouver, Canada
PC
Philip C
January 4, 2018
5

The Biking was amazing and Jorgen's work and hospitality was outstanding! This is the first trip I have done in this way and I really liked it!

Calgary, Canada
BJ
Breanna J
November 25, 2017
5

I just got back from my 3rd trip with BikeHike. Needless to say I love these trips, and I love the BikeHike team!
All of the tours I've experienced have been a great mix of activity and cultural experiences. They are usually groups of 6-8 people - so you really bond with the group you're traveling with, and it's a great way to meet like-minded active travelers.
Both Meghan and Trish from BikeHike are awesome - extremely responsive and accommodating. I've been impressed with the guides they've chosen for each trip, too - they work with local representatives that are passionate about their countries and histories, and the BikeHike team empowers their guides to organize the best, most culturally rich experiences possible. These trips have become a truly special annual tradition for me - already looking forward to my trip next year!

San Francisco, CA, USA
CT
Carolyn T
January 12, 2012
5

Our trip was outstanding - Jorgen was superb. Ecuador was so beautiful and rich with culture and beautiful people. (I liked) the variety of activities, the excellent tour guide and the minimal amount of time travelling from one destination to another

Ontario, Canada
RA
Ritu A
November 2, 2011
5

Best guide I've ever travelled with. Enthusiastic, energetic, interesting, on top of things, organized, and went far beyond what was expected.

Ontario, Canada
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