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Ecuador – Polka Dot Experience

From 15 to 22 February 2025

Welcome to the middle of the planet—Ecuador! Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey as you pedal through the breathtaking landscapes of the Ecuadorian highlands. Whether you’re chasing thrills or craving a deeper connection with nature and culture, this cycling tour offers it all.
Feel the exhilaration as you tackle challenging climbs, following in the footsteps of our very own champion, Richard Carapaz, winner of the prestigious polka dot jersey at the Tour de France. Discover what makes Ecuador a cyclist’s paradise, with its awe-inspiring scenery, rich cultural encounters, and thrilling routes that will push your limits.

Itinerary:

Stage 0: Welcome to Quito! 

As your wheels touch down at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, you’re about to embark on a cycling journey like no other. CLIPPED’s warm, welcoming staff will whisk you away to the tranquil Hotel San José de Puembo, where your adventure begins. And what better way to kick it off than with our Welcome Dinner? You’ll dive into Ecuador’s exquisite cuisine and meet fellow cyclists eager for the days ahead.

Hotel: https://www.sanjosedepuembo.com/

Day 1: Puembo to Cayambe

Day one of riding and we’re starting strong! Picture yourself cruising through 98 kilometers (60 miles) of breathtaking scenery as Cayambe Volcano dominates the horizon. You’ll arrive at the historic Hacienda Molino San Juan, where 100 years of heritage offer the perfect backdrop to rest and recharge for what’s to come.

Hotel:https://www.molinosanjuan.com/ 

The Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3278733198429080742

Day 2: Cayambe to San Pablo del Lago 
Today, you’ll pedal through the scenic slopes of Cayambe Volcano and into the lush Zuleta Valley. After a thrilling climb, Lago San Pablo will greet you with its vast beauty, but the real prize lies ahead – the ascent to Cuicocha Lagoon. Nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano, it’s a sight that will make every bit of effort worth it. We’ll end the day at the gorgeous Hacienda Cusin, a haven for recharging both body and spirit.

Hotel: https://www.haciendacusin.com/

The Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3278735132603790502

Day 3: Recovery Ride

After two epic days of climbing, it’s time to slow things down. Our recovery ride leads us to the serene Yahuarcocha Lagoon, a place rich in Ecuadorian history. Today is all about recovery: gentle pedaling, relaxation, and a well-deserved sports massage to ease those tired muscles. You’ll have the chance to rejuvenate at our beautiful hotel by the lagoon, preparing both body and mind for the next big challenge.

Hotel: https://hosteriatotoral.com/hosteria/

The Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3278738983583686684

Day 4: The Queen Stage

This is the stage you’ve been waiting for! With 2,700 meters (8,800 feet) of climbing, this “Polka Dot” stage will put your climbing legs to the test. You’ll be following the routes where Ecuadorian pros like Richard Carapaz train. By the end of this grueling but rewarding ride, you’ll understand why Carapaz conquered the polka dot jersey in the Tour de France.

Hotel: https://hosteriatotoral.com/hosteria/

The Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3278742532951715868

Day 5:  Yahuarcocha to San Pablo

Our farewell to Ecuador’s lake region is nothing short of spectacular. Ride through diverse microclimates – from desert-like terrain to lush Andean forests. We’ll end the day with a well-deserved lunch by Lago San Pablo before heading back to Quito.

Hotel: https://www.sanjosedepuembo.com/

The Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3278747358534610972

Day 6: Farewell Ride

Your final ride will take you to La Mica Lagoon, set on the slopes of the majestic Antisana Volcano. This epic climb will be your ultimate test of endurance and strength. As the day winds down, we’ll gather for a Farewell Dinner, sharing stories of this unforgettable journey and the friendships forged along the way.

Hotel: https://www.sanjosedepuembo.com/

The Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3278752336709065820

Day 7: Departure Day

As your adventure draws to a close, CLIPPED will be right by your side to assist with packing up your bikes, ensuring everything is perfectly prepared for your journey home. Our team will handle all the logistics and transport, making your transfer to the airport smooth and stress-free. It’s time to say goodbye to Ecuador—but not to the incredible memories and friendships you’ve made along the way.

Price: $3780.00

 
Discover ecuador

Unleash your inner champion

What we offer

Discover Latin America on your bike

Ramiro

CoFounder

Ride

–          Expert bilingual guides with extensive local knowledge.

–          We offer several groups, tailored by pace, to ensure you can enjoy your ride.

–          Support vehicle that follows the day’s route, distributes refreshments, and offers lifts.

–          Up to two daily supply points with food, cold drinks, treats, etc.

–          Bike assembling and disassembling.

–          Mechanical assistance along the course.

Enjoy

–          Accommodation in carefully selected hotels throughout the tour.

–          Breakfasts, lunches during the bike tour and dinners. Unlimited soft drinks.

–           Physiotherapist available to cyclists, providing up to three massages per person during the tour.

–          Quito and Otavalo city tour

–          Craft beers tasting during the tour.

–           Transfer from the airport to the first hotel and transfer throughout the tour to the last hotel.

–           Professional photographer to capture your best shots during the tour.

–          Custom CLIPPED kit.

–          Travel to and from your destination

–          Personal Ride Insurance

–          Accommodation pre/post trip

–          Beverages outside of our drinks list

Ecuador is known as the country of eternal spring. In that sense, the weather is unpredictable, it can be sunny and warm one day and cloudy and rainy the next. Despite this, you can expect temperatures not less than 50 degrees nor more than 80.

The average elevation at which we will ride most of the time is 5,900 feet; however, the last stage reaches 9,000 feet above sea level.

CLIPPED has developed the tour with a progressive increase in height and with rest days with the aim that cyclists adapt to the height in the best way; however, each person reacts to altitude differently. We have support vehicles that monitor cyclists permanently and can provide support if necessary.

CLIPPED will provide you with everything you need (gels, bars, isotonic drinks, etc.). Your only concern should be ride and enjoy.

The tour cost does not include bicycle rental; however, this is a unique adventure and we recommend that you experience it alongside the apple of your eye. CLIPPED will take care of assembling and disassembling it at no additional cost. If you wish to rent a bicycle, please contact us.

CLIPPED can store your bike at no cost. Get in touch with us to coordinate the details.

For an additional price you can bring a companion; however, it is subject to the availability of the hotels.

Taking advantage of your trip to explore other places in Ecuador is an excellent idea. We particularly recommend visiting the Galapagos Islands (a World Heritage Site). To organize your trip throughout Ecuador, please contact Rebecca Adventure Travel, our partner agency. They will be able to provide you with the best options tailored to your needs.

Clipped tours are unforgettable

Our tours are designed to provide all the necessary things for a great experience.

Premium tour guides

Delicious gastronomy tours

Quick online support

Staff on road

Extra experiences

Physiotherapy

My cycling trip with CLIPPED Tours in Ecuador was phenomenal. The attention to detail, from the luxurious hotels nestled in breathtaking scenery to the well-planned long climbs, made every day special. The staff’s friendliness and the perfectly sized group added a personal touch, making the experience even more enjoyable.

John Mejía

Client

Every aspect of this Clipped Experience was unparalleled. From the meticulously chosen routes to the charm of boutique accommodations, the exquisite culinary offerings, and the exceptional company of an amazing crew. The quality of service was simply unmatched.

Rik de Voogd

Client

This is just an amazing and unique experience. I highly recommend it, the team went above and beyond.

The group and the connections were magical. The sport massage was woooow. I feel already ready for my 1550 miles race!

Elsa Lagache

Client
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