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Ecuador offers the cyclist
seemingly endless back roads and trails to explore. The Incas, who
were legendary road builders, and their living descendants, have
been carving scenic paths for centuries. Today, in many areas mountain
bikes are used by indigenous people and campesinos as a major form
of transportation - hey, they know what's up.
For most people, the
extreme cycling environment of the Andes is best enjoyed going downhill.
The Andes create a playground
of huge vertical descents and gut-wrenching climbs at altitudes
where the snow line and the equator meet. Descents of 10,000 ft
(3,000 m) in a single day can be obtained in several areas of the
country. The world-class descent directly down the slopes of Cotopaxi
Volcano, the technical descent down Pichincha Volcano, and trips
that take riders from the heights of the Andes to the Amazon Basin
are all highly recommended.
Self Supported
Rides
Biker-friendly
buses and pickup truck taxis, plus readily available lodging and
food in most rural areas, make cross country self-supported bicycle
travel in Ecuador extremely appealing
For the experienced
mountain biker or long-distance adventurer who can handle intense
altitudes and climbs, a thousand adventures await.
Careful planning is key.
Maps of varying scales can be found at the Instituto Geografico
Militar (IGM) behind the Casa de Cultura. Don't bet your life on
directions given by locals, as they'll send you off on a wild goose-chase
rather than admit that they don't know which way to go.
The lesser-traveled
back roads make the best routes. Avoid the Inter-American highway,
and most other paved roads in Ecuador, as you will encounter reckless
truck and bus drivers that are not used to seeing bicycles on the
road. Most parts of Quito are extremely biker unfriendly, and should
be avoided like the plague. Traditional cobblestone roads will rattle
your bones loose. Also, it's better to go in the dry season, as
rains can get frigid in the Andes.
The South
American Explorer's Club will be happy to give you loads of
useful information to help you plan your biking adventures in Ecuador.
Bike rental
is available in Quito and Baños,
but quality varies widely, so check your bike carefully before heading
out.
High quality,
strong bikes are recommended. Shocks are a good idea for the extended
descents. Strong aluminum rims are essential as the high speed descents
on potted terrain will otherwise bend your wheels.
Packing up
your bike up at home and bringing it with you on the plane is a
simple alternative. Bring a strong lock and always leave your bike
locked in a secure location.
Pack
wisely and bring plenty of spare parts, including extra tubes
and a tire, don't forget a first-aid kit as you'll probably be pedaling
in remote areas.
Please see
our biking tour operators page for
a list of Ecuador's best guides and tour operators.
Happy Trails...
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