Cycling in Ecuador
Including Cajas National Park, Cotopaxi National Park, and Imbabura Geopark. On the map.
The vibe
Cycling through the Andes is a relentless test of lungs and legs, characterized by massive elevation gains and dramatic descents through changing climate zones. The dry months are essential to avoid mud-slicked roads and heavy afternoon rains that can make mountain passes treacherous. You are sharing the road with heavy traffic and local transport, making this a DIY adventure that requires constant vigilance and self-reliance.
Cajas National Park
Azuay
Ymblanter / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The high-altitude paramo of Cajas, located near the colonial city of Cuenca, offers stunning road cycling through glacial valleys and over high mountain passes. The route is famous for its stark, beautiful scenery and challenging, steady climbs.
Access. Cuenca is a major cycling base with shops, rentals, and guided tours. The park is a short drive from the city center.
Notes. High altitude; temperatures drop significantly at night. The road through the park is paved but requires caution due to frequent fog and heavy transport trucks.
Cotopaxi National Park
Pichincha
Eman Jaradat / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Dominated by the near-perfect cone of the Cotopaxi volcano, this park features an extensive network of high-altitude gravel roads and volcanic ash trails. It offers a surreal, lunar-like landscape that is highly sought after by gravel enthusiasts and mountain bikers.
Access. Accessible via guided day trips or multi-day tours from Quito or Latacunga. Bike rentals and 4x4 support vehicles are standard for navigating the park's rugged terrain.
Notes. Extremely high altitude. Weather is unpredictable; cold and windy conditions are common. Requires a mountain bike or gravel bike with wide tires.
Imbabura Geopark
Imbabura
Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Located north of Quito, this region is a tapestry of Andean lakes, indigenous markets, and rolling volcanic hills. The area provides a mix of paved secondary roads and ancient dirt tracks, perfect for mixed-surface touring.
Access. Ibarra and Otavalo are the main cycling hubs, offering bike rentals and access to local trail networks. Many routes are easily accessible by short transfers from Quito.
Notes. Moderate to difficult terrain with significant elevation gain. Year-round riding is possible, though mornings are best to avoid afternoon rain.
Vilcabamba Valley
Loja
Arabsalam / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Known as the 'Valley of Longevity,' this southern region offers a warmer climate and a labyrinth of gravel roads and singletrack trails. It is a favorite for mountain bikers and gravel riders looking for lush, subtropical Andean scenery.
Access. Vilcabamba is the central hub for bike rentals and local guides. It is accessible via Loja.
Notes. Lower altitude than the central Andes, making it a more comfortable year-round destination. Trails range from technical singletrack to flowy gravel paths.