ecuador 360° distance · 2018-10-18 · in the town of rio verde we stop to view the tremendous...
TRANSCRIPT
Ecuador 360°
AMAZON RAINFOREST
ANDES MOUNTAINS
& PACIFIC COAST
This is your opportunity to experience several different cultures and varied ways of life from traditional coastal villages to those of indigenous people in the highlands and Amazon basin. The tour goes through some of the most bio-diverse regions in the world and parts of rural Ecuador that few visitors get to see. Activities include hot springs in different areas of the country, traditional meals all along the way, a coffee and chocolate tour in Mindo, the Inti-ñan Solar Museum, and an Amazon jungle hike. The tour packs a lot into a very exciting 16 days to create memories that will last for a lifetime.
Distance:
2800km
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Trip Duration:
16 Days / 14 Riding
Days
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Elevation:
Lowest -1mt
Highest 4500mt
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Riding Experience:
INTERMEDIATE
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ECUADOR
MOTORCYCLE TOURS
Quito – Ecuador
+593 97 930 8231
(whatsapp)
EMAIL:
Social Media:
Facebook.com/EcuadorMotorcycletours
2018 CALENDAR
Day 1 - Middle of the World, Inti-Nan Museum, Pululahua Crater, Cotacachi & Otavalo 200km / Paved Rd
During the first morning of the tour you’ll be outfitted with the motorcycle of your choice and given a thorough orientation
answering all questions concerning local customs, rules of the road, riding signals, Ecuadorian driver courtesies, and more.
The first day’s ride purposefully includes a sampling of the different types of roads that will be ridden. You will have the
opportunity to safely become accustomed to asphalt, dry gravel, cobblestone, and dirt farm roads.
Our first stop will be the famous “MIDDLE OF THE WORLD MONUMENT” This spot is important since Ecuador got its
name from the imaginary line it sits on. (Ecuador=equator in Spanish) This specific spot has become famous since it is
said to be where measurements were first made (in the 1700s) confirming that the equator truly does run through the
country. Here you will experience both north and south hemispheres standing on each side of them.
Next will be visiting the Inti-ñan “path of the Sun” Museum, which is situated directly on the Equator. The indigenous
people have revered this site for thousands of years and our group will learn how ancient people came to understand that
this was the center of the world centuries before the advent of modern geography or GPS devices.
During our first stop directly on the “red line” you will
experiment with gravity, including witnessing how water drains
either clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on which side of
the Equator you are standing. You will also have the opportunity
to see how the indigenous populations of Ecuador live by visiting
models of their homes. This will enable you to better understand
the cultures and ways of life that you will experience as we pass
through the various regions.
Departing the Inti-ñan Museum, we are now officially outside of
the Quito metropolitan region, and have begun riding in the Northern Hemisphere. Our second stop is to view the
beautiful Pululahua Crater Geo-Botanical Reserve, a crater formed by a volcanic eruption 2,500 years ago.
Then We’ll head north to Cotacachi, this small and quite town is well known for its leather goods and handcrafts as well
for the beauty of its natural flora and pre-Hispanic architecture. Then we’ll ride down to Otavalo where we’ll spend the
night, enjoying the quite night life of downtown.
The indigenous Otavalo people are famous for weaving textiles, usually
made of wool, which are sold at the famous Saturday market.
Although the largest market is on Saturday, there is a very wide range of
wares available throughout the week in the Plaza de los Ponchos, and
many local shops in the area.
Day 2 – Cayambe Volcano, Papallacta hot springs,
& Cotococha Amazon Lodge
300km / Paved Rd
We’ll leave early in the morning to start our second day heading south to Papallacta hot springs, located next to two active
volcanoes where it get its hot mineral water from, depending on the weather we might be able to see the ice peaks and
hopefully some lava as well. The ride will be fun this day, expect lots and lots of twisties, this road is known for its
breathtaking landscape on a 60km downhill path to the Amazons.
After spending a few hours in Papallacta we’ll head east towards
the Majestic Amazon Rainforest where you will be introduced to a
different type of vegetation and Culture of what you’ve seen in
previous days. We’ll spend the night at Cotococha Amazon Lodge,
you will check into your private bungalow for the night. Each
bungalow is built according to traditional architecture- in harmony
with the surrounding rainforest. All bungalows are equipped with a
private bathroom, a private veranda with reclining chairs or
hammocks in which to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of
Ecuador's Amazon. You can have a swim in the sandy banks of the
Napo or a relaxing swim in their pool and jacuzzi.
We'll enjoy a gourmet dinner and be given oil lamps to light your private cabin along the banks of the river. The
Cotococha Lodge will show you how luxury and comfort can be had without the use of electricity. You'll enjoy a night of
the pure sounds of the Amazon jungle. Note you can still charge your cameras, etc in the main Lodge which provides a
bar and electic outlets.
Day 3 - (Rest day) Cotococha Amazon Lodge – Jungle Tours
Full day excursion
At Cotococha Amazon Lodge, early in the morning you will be treated to a full breakfast with fresh fruits, juice and eggs
and then taken to the boat house where you will be fitted with a life vest and rubber boots. We'll board a long, motorized
canoe that will take us up the Napo River. You will go for a short hike through secondary forest with a native guide who
will point out several plant, animal and insect species that are in this Amazon jungle rainforest. He will explain their
traditional uses and herbal remedies. Then we go for a swim in the beautiful Cascada de las Latas. This amazing waterfall
has a natural rock waterslide and a water pit for bathing. There are a couple of other waterfalls that can be visited during
your stay depending on time.
To get back to the Lodge, we float down the Napo River on inner tubes and enjoy the serenity of the jungle. (please note
that the excursions provided by the lodge are subject to change due to weather conditions or other factors that we cannot
control)
Day 4 – Tena, Puyo ( TARQUI ZOORESERVE ) and Baños. 180 km / Paved Rd
This day we’ll start ascending little by little into the mountains,
stopping by the city of Puyo to have lunch, followed by the visit to
TARQUI ZOORESERVE, then continuing on “Camino de las
Cascadas” (Route of the waterfalls) to the city of Baños, one of the
best adventure capitals of the country and the only city with the most
natural Hot Springs. We will be sure to soak away the day's ride in
the volcanic baths that are kept at varying temperatures - the best
time to get to the baths is when they open at 5:00 pm. The baths
close at 4 pm every day to change the water so getting there at 5
means a smaller crowd and cleaner water! We make sure to get there
at the right time.
Once we have soaked away the effects of the road, we will sit
down for a meal at one of the town's fantastic restaurants. Our
carefully selected accommodations for tonight are at the
beautifuly decorated and charming “Posada del Arte” which is a
combination art gallery/bed and breakfast. At night, get ready to
party since Baños is also known for its lively-wild night life.
Day 5 Included Excursion to the ROUTE OF THE
WATERFALLS .
Take another steamy volcanic bath early in the morning, and enjoy a full
breakfast at the comfortable Posada del Arte hotel before we head back on the
road for out included excursion of the day. We will head back into the "Route
of the Waterfalls" through the eastern slopes which will eventually descend
into the Amazon River Basin. On the way down the Eastern Slopes, we will
have several opportunities for exhilarating zip lines across the gorge of the
Pastaza River. You can also try one of the "swing jumps" which is like a bungee
jump but with a normal rope. It will give you a great surge of adrenaline
In the town of Rio Verde we stop to view the tremendous "Pailon
del Diablo" or "Cauldron of the Devil" waterfalls. The falls crash
about 250 feet into a hole that has been bored into the rock over
centuries. To get the best view of the falls we will take a small hike
and cross over a suspension bridge which leads to steps that will
bring us down into the"cauldron." The falls draws photographers
from around the world and they will amaze you.
Day 6 – Rest day in Baños (included excursions)
Day 7 – Devil’s nose, Inga-pirca Ruins & Cuenca. 360 km / Paved Roads
This is a long riding day, so we get up early in the morning
and get on the road after a great buffet breakfast. We head
out on the Pan-American highway towards the south, first
passing through dense pine and eucalyptus forests. The scent
of these forests will be something that will stay with you long
after the ride.
We continue on these mountain roads, passing through high
altitude paramo and crossing chilly high altitude mountain
passes at 11,000+ feet. After some breathtaking views, we
arrive to the small town of Alausi where you will take a once in
a lifetime train ride known as the “Devil’s nose train ride”.
Then we turn right onto a road that takes us through scenic
farmlands and was once part of the Incan trail during the
reign of the Incan empire. The people along this road still use
centuries-old farming techniques.
On today's ride you will roll into Ecuador's third largest
city and arguably its most charming -the city
of Cuenca. Cuenca is recognized as a UNESCO world
heritage site as its historic center is a well-preserved
example of Spanish Colonial architecture. You will be
staying in the luxury colonial Hotel Victorial -right in the
historic center of this beautiful city.
Day 8 – Cajas National Park & Guayaquil
City
220km / Paved Roads
This will be our longest riding day, we’ll descend from the
Andes mountains to Ecuadorian Coast, making a few stops
along the way. Our first stop will be Highlands of CAJAS
National Park, one hour outside Cuenca, where will get to see
the famous Andes Llamas and other species of wild animals,
from there on, we’ll go down 4450 meters to -1 meter.
Right after the National Park you will feel the altitude-drop in
less than an hour. Around 1:30 pm, we’ll arrive in Guayaquil, the
biggest city in the country, where you be delighted by its local
gastronomy and warm weather. Right after lunch we’ll walk
around PARQUE SEMINARIO, known for the Iguanas roaming
the area, quite a unique show.
Guayaquil is a port city in Ecuador, known as a gateway to Pacific beaches and the Galapagos Islands. Stretching along the
Guayas River is the waterfront Simón Bolívar promenade, home to La Rotonda monument. In the north, Las Peñas is a
neighborhood full of colorful houses. Stairs lined with cafes and art galleries lead up Santa Ana Hill, site of Santa Ana
chapel, a lighthouse and views of the city. You’ll spend the night here taking advantage of the early hours to go walk
around its many sight-seeing areas. LAS PENAS is located near our hotel and is a most to go at night for dinner or just a
cocktail.
Day 9 – Salinas Beach & Montanita Beach. 22o km / Paved Roads
On this day, we have about 220km to Salinas Beach, where
we’ll stop by for lunch. Salinas is a coastal town on the western
tip of Ecuador's Santa Elena province. It's known for its
popular beaches, like San Lorenzo and Chipipe, which are both
hugged by the palm-lined Malecón promenade. Near the
promenade, the Museo de Ballenas features whales, dolphins
and sea lions. Migratory humpback whales pass the rocky
point of La Chocolatera, which offers panoramic views over the
Pacific Ocean. The weather varies between 20 to 35 centigrade
during the day, making it a perfect combination between Cold
beer, Seafood and Beach
After a Yummy Seafood lunch treat, we’ll head
north towards Montañita, which is a village on
Ecuador's Santa Elena Peninsula, known for its
beaches with strong surf breaks and bohemian vibe.
Lively bars, nightclubs and thatch-roofed
restaurants line the streets. Montañita Beach
stretches north to La Punta, a rocky bluff with
views over the ocean. Farther north along the coast
are Olón village and the nearby cloud forest of the
Chongón-Colonche mountains. This being said, get
ready to relax and party. Many attractions are
available during the day, like Whale watching,
surfing, snorkeling, parasailing, and the most
popular of them all, Partying.
Day 10 – Rest day in Montañita
( INCLUDED MOTORCYCLE EXCURSION TO AGUA BLANCA)
120km / half Paved – half gravel
Agua Blanca is a small village just north of Puerto Lopez. In the village you
can find a sulfur pool, get an overview of the forest and find pre-Colombian
art. In the museum the guide will tell you about the artifacts. They only speak
Spanish, so this is a good way to practice! After this the guide will take on a
walking tour through the forest and most guides are very knowledgeable
about the birds and plants you can find here. You can choose either a short
one or a longer one that is a few hours walking through the mountains. You
will see impressive flora and fauna, especially birds, ruins, remains of
temples, burial sites and local farms. At the end of the tour you can take a dip in the sulfur baths. Spread yourself with
mud and wash it of in the pool. Your skin will be super healthy after this!
Day 11 – Puerto Lopez, Manta, Bahia & Canoa.
250 km / Paved Roads
After getting breakfast, We’ll get ready to head north on the “Ruta del Sol” highway towards Canoa, which is a town in the
Canton of San Vicente in the Manabí Province of Ecuador. Canoa is located north of Bahía de Caraquez, Province of
Manabí, known for its adrenaline-fueled sports of surfing, paragliding, stand up paddle boarding, and kite surfing have all
become popular pursuits in this little town. Again we’ll be delighted with its traditional seafood dishes and humble culture.
Day 12 – Spondylus Highway, Atacames Beach
260 km / Paved Roads
Leaving Canoa early in the morning, We’ll continue riding north on the SPONDYLUS HIGHWAY, passing by Jama,
Pedernales, Monpiche and Sua, finally arriving in Atacames, a very well-known beach for Ecuadorians. Atacames is a
beach town located on Ecuador's Northern Pacific coast. It is located in the province of Esmeraldas, approximately 30
kilometers south west from the capital of that province, which is also called Esmeraldas. One particular thing you will find
on this day will be the amount of street vendors selling Coconut Water, Green Plantain Empanadas and Shrimp Ceviche,
We’ll definitely stop to snack some of that delicious food. Upon arrival we’ll settle into our hotel and then we encourage
you to walk around the beach to see the local shops and restaurant-bars.
Day 13 – Esmeraldas, Mindo
265 km / Paved Roads - 5%OffRoad
This is our final day in the Coast, now heading
back into the mountains, our destination of the
day is Mindo Cloud forest. Once there we take a
left turn off the main highway and venture onto
an unpaved, unmarked road that leads even
deeper into the cloudforest. Here, at the world-
famous Bellavista Cloudforest Bird Lodge, we
take a break on their amazing patio and watch
hundreds of hummingbirds flitting around
us. These are all of a completely different species
than the birds seen at lunch. There is no other
place on earth where so many species of birds
can be viewed. Note that the unpaved section
is optional - we can continue along the newly
paved highway all the way to Mindo if you are
not comfortable riding on unpaved roads.
Continue through the lush cloud forest along
clear streams with cascading waterfalls to the funky, eclectic town of Mindo. Mindo is situated in a warm microclimate
cloud forest that’s known for its natural beauty and great restaurants. We will visit the El Quetzal chocolate factory for a
tour that entertains while educating about the farming and processing of organic cocoa and how it is turned into chocolate
and formed into bars. You will want to sample this chocolate, as Ecuador produces some of the best chocolate in the
world.
Day 14 – Santo Domingo , Quito
270 km / Paved Roads
This is our final Riding day, from Mindo cloud forest we head
east towards Santo Domingo, stopping by for lunch, after our
meals We’ll head north towards Quito, visiting the small town of
Alluriquin, known for its delicious Melcocha Candy, made out of
Sugar Cane, then, 40 km north we’ll find Tandapi, where you
will find El poder brutal, also known as La cara del
diablo ("The Face of the Devil"), is a colossal sculpture located in
the main Highway. It is carved into the living rock of a mountain
on the Alóag–Santo Domingo road, about 5 kilometers from the
town of Tandapi; for this reason it is sometimes known as el
diablo de Tandapi ("the devil of Tandapi"). It is especially
famous for its size and because it is located on the most traveled
route between Quito and Guayaquil.
Once we have passed Tandapi, you will enjoy of 50 km of just
twisties, please use caution and common sense on this part of
the road.
Finally, we arrive in our hotel in the Capital concluding with our
riding days. Now that you have finished your tour we hope you
had a wonderful time and wish you are taking with you the most
amazing memories to last a lifetime.
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TOUR DATES (contact us for more info)
PRICES (USD)
On a Honda CB500X $4890 (highly Recommended )
On a Suzuki Freewind 650 XF $4890
On a Suzuki DR 650 $4890
On a Suzuki Vstrom DL650 $5090
On a BMW F700 $5690
On a BMW F800 $6290
On a Aprilia Caponord 1200cc $6720
Passenger Pillion Charge $3000 (double occupancy)
HOW TO CHOOSE A BIKE FOR ECUADOR?
Ecuador has upgraded its roads in the last 10
years, being 95% paved roads, but don’t
expect long straight paths, In fact 80% of the
highways/roads are twisties, meaning that
your maximum speed on these scenarios will
be 80 to 100 KPH, with a top speed of 130
KPH on slightly straight paths. That being
said, Big engines are just a waste of power
and money. Ecuador runs on 250cc engines,
so my humble suggestion for these type of
roads would be a Honda CB500X with super
comfortable Suspension and Seat, USB
charger, Big windshield and ABS, as well as
our line of 650’s.
PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE
International or local flights
Alcoholic drinks
Refundable security deposit to cover any damage to the rental motorcycle
Dinner and lunch on rest days
Optional activities on rest days
NO TAX FOR TOURISTS TO ECUADOR!
Hotel accommodations outside the 16 days of tour (extended night accommodation available)
Tips and gratuities for Guides.
Required medical insurance or traveler's insurance (proof required to enter Ecuador)
Visa to Enter the country if it applies to you.
PRICES INCLUDE
Unlimited Kilometers on Motorcycle Rentals
Airport transfer (Arrival / departure)
Experienced, multilingual, local tour guide
Single occupancy in 3-5 star hotels.
Breakfast every day of the tour
Lunch included on riding days.
3 Dinners included.
Hotel included one night before and one night after the tour in Quito. (day 1 and 16)
Tolls and Road services.
Gasoline and oil
Entry Fees to parks, excursions offered above.
Guaranteed departure policy, we go even if there is only one participant - we do not cancel
tours! (under this conditions Support Vehicle may not be included)
Chase / support vehicle (if group size is 3+)
Use of motorcycle on rest days
Souvenir T-Shirt
Guides Services at all times.
JC Torres Quito - Ecuador
+593 999660138
+593 999 660138 (Calls within Ecuador)
EMAIL:[email protected]
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