Ecuador - The Avenue of the Volcanoes
Riding through Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes was one of the highlights of my journey through South America. Following remote dirt roads and backcountry tracks through the Andes, my route took me past Cotopaxi, Quilotoa and Chimborazo, through some of the most spectacular landscapes I’ve ever cycled.
The conditions were considerably tougher than I’d expected, but Ecuador still managed to far exceed my expectations. This was demanding, adventurous riding through a country that completely blew me away. The film above follows that journey, and gives you a taste of why I’m so excited to return.
Come riding with me in Ecuador — May 2027
Next May, I’m partnering with Vagabond Trails to host my first organised group bike trip. We’ll follow a modified version of the route in the film, exploring the Avenue of the Volcanoes together over ten days.
We’ll stay in haciendas and mountain lodges, with luggage transported between accommodation, so you can ride with just what you need for the day.
Dates: 22–31 May 2027.
Start and finish: Quito, Ecuador.
Highlights: Cotopaxi National Park, the Toachi Canyon, Quilotoa’s crater lake and the highlands around Chimborazo.
Group size: 8–14 riders.
Price: US$4,395 per person.
Included: Accommodation in shared rooms, all main meals, professional guiding, airport transfers and luggage transfers.
Not included: Flights, insurance, drinks and other extras detailed on the booking page.
The route we’ll be doing won’t be quite as crazy as the one I rode in this film, but it still won’t be easy. This is a physically challenging trip, with long climbs, rough surfaces and riding at high altitude. You’ll need good riding fitness and previous experience of multi-day cycling. A mountain bike with low gearing and wide tyres is recommended.
I’m really looking forward to sharing this part of Ecuador with a small group and spending some proper time riding together.
See the full itinerary, bike requirements, inclusions and booking details on Vagabond Trails.
