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Ecuador – Polka Dot Experience

From October 3rd to 10th, 2026

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

Your adventure begins as you land at Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Our CLIPPED team will greet you and take you to the peaceful Hotel San José de Puembo. That evening, we’ll gather for a Welcome Dinner to savor Ecuadorian cuisine and connect with fellow riders.

Hotel: San José de Puembo

Day 1: Puembo → Cayambe

We start strong with 98 km of sweeping highland roads under the gaze of Cayambe Volcano. The ride ends at the historic Hacienda Molino San Juan, where 100 years of heritage welcome us.

Hotel: Hacienda Molino San Juan

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Day 2: Cayambe → San Pablo del Lago

Climb through the lush Zuleta Valley before reaching the stunning Cuicocha Lagoon, nestled in a volcanic crater. Tonight’s stay at the enchanting Hacienda Cusin will recharge both body and spirit.

Hotel: Hacienda Cusin

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Day 3: Recovery Ride – Yahuarcocha Lagoon

After two epic climbing days, we dial it back. A gentle spin to the historic Yahuarcocha Lagoon, plus a sports massage, set the perfect tone for recovery.

Hotel: Hostería Totoral

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Day 4: The Queen Stage

The toughest—and most rewarding—day. With 2,700 meters of climbing, this stage follows the training routes of Ecuador’s pros. By the summit, you’ll understand exactly what it takes to wear the polka dot jersey.

Hotel: Hostería Totoral

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Day 5: Yahuarcocha → San Pablo

A spectacular farewell to the lake region. Ride through shifting microclimates, from arid valleys to lush Andean forests, before returning to Lago San Pablo for a lakeside lunch. That evening, we transfer back to Quito.

Hotel: San José de Puembo

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Day 6: Farewell Ride – La Mica Lagoon

Your final test: the climb to La Mica Lagoon, set high on the slopes of Antisana Volcano. It’s the perfect send-off—one last challenge, one last chance to soak in Ecuador’s raw beauty. In the evening, we gather for our Farewell Dinner to celebrate the journey.

Hotel: San José de Puembo

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Day 7: Departure Day

Our team will take care of everything—bike packing, transfers, and logistics—so all you need to do is carry home the memories of Ecuador: the climbs, the landscapes, and the friendships forged at Latitude 0°.

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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