Cotopaxi Volcano Biking Adventure, 1 Day

Level: Moderate to Challenging
AMBC-01

/>The Cotopaxi National Park is high altitude nature and wildlife refuge established around the highest active volcano in the world. It offers one of Ecuador's best mountain biking experiences as it crosses through a unique paramo ecosystem under stunning volcano scenery. A support vehicle, a naturalist guide and high quality mountain biking equipment are included in this incredible volcano experience.

We depart from Quito driving south through the inter-Andean valleys until we reach the Cotopaxi National Park entrance. We explore the park looking out for wildlife while driving by many volcanoes in the area such as Ilinizas, Sincholagua, Rumiñahui and Pasochoa. We reach Limpiopungo Glacier Lake where we prepare our mountain bikes to ride through with spectacular highland plateaus while observing highland (paramo) vegetation and fauna, such as llamas, wild horses, ducks, gulls and even the magnificent Condor. We ride mostly downhill to compensate for the high altitude until we reach the Pucara Inca Ruins. After a nutritious lunch and snacks we return to Quito arriving in the afternoon. (L)

INCLUDED: Private transportation, professional biking guide, quality mountain bikes (Shimano Deore 27 speed, front suspension, disc brakes), gloves, helmets, lunch and snacks.

NOT INCLUDED: Cotopaxi National Park entrance fee $10.00

IMPORTANT FACTS:

• TRAVEL TIME: 2 hours each way
• RIDING TIME: 3 hours
• SEASON: All year
• ALTITUDE: 3900 m to 3600 m
• AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: DAY 10-18 C NIGHT 5-9 C
• SUGGESTED: Layered clothing, rain shell, sun block