Cotopaxi National Park Mountain Biking Route

From the World's Highest Active Volcano to Machachi, Ecuador

Apr 7, 2009

Cyclists looking for a high-altitude route through majestic mountains and among snow-capped volcanoes will be thrilled with the Cotopaxi Cycling Route in central Ecuador.

This classic cycling route in Ecuador has been taken by countless mountain bikers wanting to ride through the páramos (highlands) of the Andes. The route runs anywhere from 50 to 60 km, depending on which trails are taken. Most of the route goes through undisturbed highlands, with magnificent views of the surrounding volcanos: Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, Sincholagua and Antisana.

It is important to note that the altitudes reached during this route are quite high (the highest point is 3,800 m above sea level). Cyclists attempting this high-altitude route should spend time in Quito or the surrounding areas acclimatizing to the altitude.

High-Altitude Biking: Cotopaxi National Park (Entrance) to Limpiopungo Lake (21.5 km)

The journey begins at the entrance to the park, about 1 hour south of the capital city of Quito. The entrance is located at an altitude of more than 3,000 m off of the Panamerican highway (from Quito going south towards Lasso). The route is well marked. About 6.5 km in, cyclists will reach a small house where they will pay the entrance fee to the park (check prices before leaving as fees may change without prior notice). The trail continues ascending until it reaches Limpiopungo Lake, about 15 km uphill. The altitude here is approximately 3,800 m, so precautions for altitude sickness should be taken. Along the way it is not uncommon to see Andean seagulls and plovers.

Once the lake has been reached, cyclists should continue on the main path, avoiding the turn-off to the first refuge. Cyclists will continue on over the bridge that crosses the San José River (about 7.5 km from Limpiopungo), and then veer to the left a few meters later to take the path to the stone ruins, another 3.5–4 km away. In this area observant cyclists may spot wild horses and llamas or alpacas.

Rapid Descent through Andes: Ruinas to Machachi (and the Güitig pools) (23 km)

From Ruinas begins a rather rapid descent of about 23 km to the town of Machachi. Following the main road becomes difficult as more and more secondary paths open up. At the end of this stretch, cyclists will reach the small hut that marks the northern entrance to the park and the road becomes firmer. Eventually the route turns into a cobblestoned road leading to Machachi (at an altitude of 2,970 m above sea level). Once in Machachi, it is possible to rest weary bones and muscles by taking a plunge in the famous cold mineral waters at the Güitig pools.

Cyclists exploring South America and interested in high-altitude mountain biking will not be disappointed with the Cotopaxi National Park Cycling Route.

The copyright of the article Cotopaxi National Park Mountain Biking Route in Bicycle Touring Routes is owned by Kari Miller. Permission to republish Cotopaxi National Park Mountain Biking Route in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.