Cycling Route Baños-Puyo in Ecuador
Waterfalls and Nature, Downhill Biking along the Pastaza River
Apr 6, 2009
Starting in Baños, a small Ecuadorian town nestled against the skirts of mighty (and highly active) Tungurahua volcano about 3 1/2 hours from the capital city of Quito, most of the route is downhill, with much of the way paved. It passes through the small towns of Río Verde and Río Negro and ends in the beautiful sector of Encanto Natural. Since the most breathtaking and beautiful views occur on the way from Baños to Río Negro, some cyclists choose to end there, taking the bus back to Baños.
Although much of the descent is a bit steep, even beginner cyclists can enjoy it with a little preparation. It will take all day to complete the circuit, however, factoring in time to appreciate the natural wonders along the way.
Preparation for Cycling Trips in Ecuador
Having a bicycle in good working order is a priority. Cyclists should always wear a helmet, as well, and try to stay away from routes with heavy traffic. Sunscreen is essential as the equatorial sun is quite potent and can create a burn in a short time. The climate is rather hot and humid in this zone, so light clothing that reflects the heat is necessary. The further one descends, the hotter the weather is, so a good water supply is also essential.
Waterfalls in Ecuadorian Subtropical Forests: Baños-Río Verde Stretch (16 km)
The bike route is clearly marked along the way. Starting in Baños, the next landmark will be the Agoyán River Dam, an impressive structure towering along the highway. Across the Pastaza River one has a good view of the Agoyán Waterfall. After the dam, the descent begins. The next waterfall is the famous Velo de Novia, a high, thin waterfall that splashes down into the Pastaza. Small tarabitas (cable cars) can take tourists across the river to the waterfall itself.
The route continues on to Río Verde, with another waterfall along the way: Pailón del Diablo. Pailón del Diablo can be viewed from beneath by taking a well-marked foot path to the base of the waterfall. At the top of the path bicycles can be left and protected from theft for a small fee.
Ecuadorian Jungle Villages: Río Verde - Río Negro (12 km)
From Río Verde the descent continues another 12 km until one reaches the small town of Río Negro. From here buses can be caught to go back to Baños, or more experienced riders may like to bike up the remaining stretch to the sector of Encanto Natural.
Subtropical Landscapes and Bird-watching: Río Negro - Sector Encanto Natural (7 km)
From Río Negro one must leave the asphalted road and cross the Pastaza River Bridge. The route continues up a moderate incline for another 7 km, ending in the hosterías (nature resorts) of Vrindavan and Encanto Natural. Cyclists can spend the rest of the day in the resorts enjoying the enchanting landscapes or bird-watching. Depending on one's physical state, another 2-3 km up the road is the Encanto River Valley, also with breathtaking views.
Return to Baños and Quito (Mariscal Sucre International Airport)
For the return to Baños, one must follow the same route back to Río Negro. From there one can take a bus back to Baños. The entire circuit (Baños-Río Negro-Encanto Natural-Río Negro) is approximately 42 km. From Baños it is 3 1/2 hour bus ride to Quito.
 |
