Ecuador’s northern highlands feature some of the most beautiful countryside in South America. Often referred to as the Lake District, it is a region of fertile rolling hills, majestic glacier-clad volcanos and lush cloud forests, dotted with centuries-old colonial villages, alpine lakes and diverse ecological reserves. The area is home to a variety of birds, including hummingbirds, caracaras, condors, Andean snipes, waterfowl, barbets, mountain toucans, finches and many different jewel-colored tanagers, as well as unique mammal species such as the Andean spectacled bear. In addition to spectacular scenery and unusual wildlife, cottage industries abound, including wood carving, leather working, ornament making and weaving. Cross-cultural opportunities with the artists, local shop owners, farmers and craftsmen are exceptional.

Designed for the novice and experienced biker alike to enjoy some of the best mountain bike touring in South America, our group is supported by a fully-equipped sag wagon to transport gear, repair kits, and on occasion, riders themselves. We begin with a short tour of Quito, then drive northwest and continue to our cloud forest lodge by bike, enjoying the spectacular transition from the open expanses of the highlands to the dense vegetation of the cloud forest, as we follow centuries-old, switchbacked, cobbled and dirt roads. From our charming lodge, we bike in the morning and hike in the afternoon along wooded trails, watching brightly colored birds amongst the epiphytes and orchids. Driving back up to the highlands, we visit the equator monument, en route to a charming hacienda located at the foot of Cayambe (18,995'), Ecuador's third highest volcano. After riding through the surrounding countryside, we bike a 10,000-foot pass and head into the valleys and foothills below the Imbabura volcano. We visit remote haciendas, Otavalo Indian villages and rural school houses for a few days as we peddle over cobbled streets and along backcountry dirt roads. Our adventure concludes with a morning at the renowned Otavalo Indian market, one of South America's largest handicraft fairs, and a ride beside Lake Cuicocha before we drive back to Quito for a final evening together in the city.