Northwest Ecuador Explorer Guided Motorcycle Tour

Day 1
Quito - El Quinche - Cayambe - Olmedo - Otavalo - Cotacachi

141 km | 88 miles

Our office, nestled in one of Quito’s most vibrant neighborhoods, is the ideal starting point for this guided motorcycle adventure. Positioned just steps from the main tunnel out of the city, we can roll out smoothly, bypassing heavy traffic. Surrounded by cozy cafés, lively restaurants, inviting hotels, museums, and theaters, this area buzzes with energy, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.

We gather in our conference room, where our seasoned guide kicks off the day with a thoughtful pre-ride briefing. With deep knowledge of Ecuador’s roads and culture, we share insights on the route, local traditions, and hidden gems, sparking excitement and unity within our group. As we set off together, our guide’s expertise ensures a seamless, enriching ride, blending leadership with a warm, inclusive spirit.

In moments, we leave Quito’s buzz behind, riding into lush pastures and colorful rose farms under a balmy sky. Our guide leads us to the El Quinche Basilica, a sacred site where pilgrims seek miracles and vehicles are blessed for safe travels. As they share stories of devotion, the group feels a shared sense of purpose—a perfect start to the adventure.

The ride continues along the Panamerican Highway’s thrilling curves to the Quitsato Sun Dial, right on the Equator. Our guide brings this spot to life, explaining its significance to ancient cultures and the Andean Cross’s cosmic role. We snap photos straddling both hemispheres, laughing and bonding as a group over standing at the world’s center.

Next, we reach Cayambe, a charming town beneath a snow-capped volcano, famous for its irresistible bizcochos—buttery cookies that delight the senses. Our guide introduces us to locals crafting these treats, and as we share them, the moment weaves our group closer together.

Veering onto a quieter road, our guide pauses so we can take in a serene valley framed by the towering Cayambe volcano. They share tales of heroines Amaguaña and Cacuango, whose fight for justice resonates here, deepening our group’s connection to Ecuador’s heart.

In Olmedo, we cross a narrow bridge lined with adobe homes, feeling the region’s timeless pulse. The twisty road leads us into the Zuleta Valley, where artisans create world-class embroidery and saddles. Their insights into these crafts ignite curiosity and conversation within the group.

The road climbs between two volcanoes, reaching over 10,000 feet, where we can admire Lake San Pablo’s serene beauty, nestled below Imbabura volcano. We'll stop at an artisan family's workshop in the Otavaleño region, vibrant with indigenous pride. Here, we marvel at backstrap looms weaving natural fibers into vibrant textiles, a centuries-old craft that inspires awe and strengthens our group’s shared journey.

Day one ends in style at Hacienda Pinsaqui, where live music and Andean warmth envelop us. This storied hacienda, with its spacious rooms—many boasting fireplaces—and exceptional dinners, creates the perfect setting for our group to swap stories and toast the day’s adventures together.

Day 2

Cotacachi - Otavalo - Cuicocha Lake - Chachimbiro - Primavera

145 km | 90 miles

Waking up at Hacienda Pinsaqui feels like a warm embrace from Ecuador itself. We wander through tranquil gardens, where ponds glisten and ducks drift lazily, soaking in the hacienda’s timeless charm. Breakfast unfolds with Otavaleña women in vibrant traditional dress serving fresh, steaming coffee beside a roaring fireplace. It’s the perfect fuel to set off on the winding roads around Otavalo’s misty mountains, each twist revealing breathtaking vistas that pull us deeper into this vibrant land.

We dive into Otavalo’s animal market, a lively chaos of squealing piglets, bleating goats, and bustling locals. For centuries, indigenous families have trekked from the hills to trade here, creating a scene that’s raw and untouched by tourist gloss. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder, swept up in the energy, feeling the pulse of traditions that have thrived for generations.

At the Plaza de los Ponchos, one of South America’s largest indigenous markets, we lose ourselves in a kaleidoscope of alpaca wool blankets, handwoven tapestries, and sparkling jewelry. Every stall tells a story of Otavaleño craftsmanship, tempting us with carved wooden toys and woven bags. Bargaining feels like a game, and with a bit of practice, we score treasures that feel like stealing, our group buzzing with the thrill of the hunt.

We step into a family-run shop where the air hums with music. Artisans craft pan flutes from leather and armadillo shells, showing us how to coax out a tune in minutes. Our laughter fills the space as we fumble and succeed, sharing a moment that feels like a secret shared with Ecuador’s soul. It’s a craft that’s as alive today as it was centuries ago, and we leave humming with inspiration.

In Cotacachi, famed for its leatherwork, we meet artisans whose families have tanned hides without chemicals for generations. Watching them transform raw hides into sleek belts and jackets is mesmerizing—global brands source from here, yet we snag these gems for a fraction of the cost. Over coffee in the main plaza, we savor Imbabura’s world-class brew, grown by a cooperative of 200 families. The rich, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with warm pastries, and we linger, soaking in the town’s easygoing vibe.

Riding from Cotacachi, we follow a paved backroad to Cuicocha Lake, a dazzling crater lake nestled in the Cotacachi Volcano. Its deep blue waters cradle forested islets bursting with over 400 plant species, and we pause, spellbound by its beauty. The name “Guinea Pig Lake”—from the Kichwa cuy for guinea pig—sparks chuckles as we picture its quirky history, the group sharing a quiet moment in nature’s embrace.

We cruise along ancient cobblestone roads, smooth under our tires, built for hooves but perfect for this journey. The stones sing with history, and we feel it in the air, undisturbed by traffic. In Urcuqui’s tidy plaza, the air turns warm and dry, a refreshing shift that lifts our spirits. At Hacienda Chachimbiro, we sink into hot springs surrounded by epic views, our group unwinding together, the water melting away the miles.

Lunch at Hacienda Pantavi fills us with local dishes in an art-strewn retreat, our table alive with chatter and shared plates. Rolling on to Salinas, an African-Ecuadorian town, we pass a train station and salt mine museum, the legacy of its name etched in the land. The group feels the weight of its story as we ride through, connected to its past.

Sweeping curves lead us into the western Andes, where fertile farms and cloudforests unfold. A narrow road traces a roaring river, waterfalls glinting past, until we reach Primavera’s tiny hamlet. At Hacienda Primavera Wilderness Lodge, hidden in the El Choco Cloud Forest Reserve, we’re greeted by a symphony of life—parrots, toucans, and orchids thriving in the planet’s richest ecosystem.

The lodge feels like a sanctuary, with spacious rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a spring-fed pool that blends into the jungle. We explore the on-site coffee plantation, tasting the land’s bounty, our group alive with curiosity. Settling into the infinity jacuzzi, the Andes stretching endlessly before us, we share a stillness, bound by the day’s adventures and Ecuador’s wild, beating heart.

Day 3

Primavera - Las Peñas - Same - Cumilinche Club

308 km | 191 miles

We wake to a chorus of birdsong at Hacienda Primavera, the jungle alive with melody. Breakfast is a feast of fresh fruits, eggs, and organic coffee grown right on the grounds—a vibrant start that fuels our group for the day’s ride. The air feels electric as we hit the road, ready to chase new horizons.

We descend from the mountains into the lush rainforests and sleepy villages of Ecuador’s northwestern coast, where life moves slowly and the air hums with tranquility. The beaches here stretch wide and empty, inviting us to linger. Every bite of food bursts with flavor—fresh, bold, and unforgettable—crafted by locals who pour their hearts into every dish.

At Las Peñas, we catch our first glimpse of the Pacific Ocean, its waves glinting under the sun. This tucked-away haven feels like a secret, perfect for kicking back. We savor seafood straight from the Esmeraldas coast—think Arroz Marinero, breaded shrimp, or conch, all drenched in creamy coconut sauce. Whether we dig into a full meal or sip a fresh fruit juice, satisfaction washes over us. Some of us sprawl in hammocks under swaying palms, others linger at tables with sea views, and a quick dip in the warm ocean refreshes us before we roll on.

Further south in Rioverde, we dive into a local legend: cevicangre, a spicy shrimp ceviche piled high with rice, plantain chips, and a chilled coconut drink. The star is the Esmeraldas blue crab, a prized delicacy that takes time to perfect but melts in our mouths. Armed with mallets and aprons, we crack open boiled crabs slathered in coconut sauce, laughing as we dig out the sweet meat—a messy, joyful feast that bonds our group.

We cruise around the lively pulse of Esmeraldas, northern Ecuador’s bustling port, catching glimpses of its vibrant streets. Skirting the party vibe of Atacames, we weave past shrimp farms, the coastal breeze in our faces, feeling the rhythm of the road.

Our day ends at the Cumilinche Club Reserve, where private beachside cabins await. We step onto a pristine stretch of sand, the Pacific warm and inviting for a swim. Exploring natural caves carved into the shore feels like uncovering treasure, and the restaurant’s seafood—especially the Cumilinche Salad—caps the day with bold, fresh flavors. Our group gathers, sharing stories under the stars, wrapped in the beauty of this untouched coast.

Day 4

Rest Day at Cumilinche Club

Waking up at the Cumilinche Club feels like being cradled by paradise itself. The ocean whispers, the jungle hums, and the beauty of this untouched coast wraps our group in a spell we don’t want to break. Today, we trade our bikes for a day of pure freedom, soaking in every moment this seaside haven offers.

We wander the shoreline at low tide, exploring caves carved by the sea, their walls glistening with secrets. The beach teems with life—bright crabs scuttle across rocks, strange insects dance in the sand, and birds of every hue swoop overhead, filling the air with song. Our group drifts together, marveling at the raw wonder, each discovery sparking shared smiles and stories.

For adventure, we can venture to Punta Galera or Punta Tortuga, where secluded beaches stretch endlessly, untouched by crowds. These hidden coves feel like ours alone, inviting us to splash in the warm Pacific or sprawl on the sand, lost in the rhythm of the waves. Every step feels like uncovering a treasure, the group buzzing with the thrill of exploration.

If relaxation calls, we sink into the Cumilinche Club’s serene embrace, lounging by the private beach or savoring fresh seafood at the restaurant. The flavors—think zesty ceviche or creamy coconut-drenched fish—dance on our tongues, tying us closer to this vibrant coast. Some of us kick back with a cold drink, watching the horizon, while others swap tales under the palms, the group’s laughter mingling with the breeze.

Craving a livelier vibe? We can hop to Same or Atacames, where the nightlife pulses with music and energy, tempting us to dance under the stars. Whether we chase adventure or ease into bliss, the day unfolds at our pace, each choice weaving our group tighter into the magic of Ecuador’s coast.

Day 5

Galera - Mompiche - Pedernales - Valle Hermoso

273 km | 170 miles

We kick off the day with breakfast on Cumilinche Club’s private beach, the shrimp omelet stealing the show with its burst of coastal flavor. Our group fuels up, keeping swimsuits and flip-flops handy, ready for a ride that hugs the Pacific’s edge, each mile more stunning than the last.

Sweeping through papaya groves and cattle farms, we roll into Mompiche, a fishing village where time seems to pause. The streets hum with quiet warmth—locals trade smiles, dirt tracks pulse with life, and surfers chase legendary waves. We sip ice-cold smoothies, the tart sweetness cutting through the heat, our group savoring the village’s unspoiled charm as we soak in its laid-back vibe.

Just down the coast, we slip into swimsuits for Playa Negra, a beach like no other. Its deep, dark sand—laced with uranium, titanium, and copper—feels otherworldly underfoot, shimmering with a strange beauty. We wander its shores, some scooping up a pinch as a keepsake, the group marveling at this rare slice of Ecuador’s coast.

Riding past shrimp farms, our appetites grow, and Pedernales delivers. This city churns out most of Ecuador’s shrimp, a powerhouse behind only oil and roses in exports. We settle into a beachside restaurant, diving into plates piled high with fresh shrimp—grilled, ceviche-style, or tossed in garlic. The flavors explode, tying us to the sea, and our group lingers over cold drinks, the ocean breeze weaving through our laughter.

Leaving the coast, we ride inland, the landscape shifting to rolling hills alive with microclimates. Rice fields gleam, cattle graze, and dry forests guard fruit-heavy trees—mangoes, papayas, and more—painting the road with color. Our group feels the land’s pulse, each turn revealing new textures of Ecuador’s heart.

The day ends at the Kashama Lodge & Spa, a rainforest retreat tucked at the Andes’ base. Built into a waterfall, it’s a marvel—water cascades around us as we savor world-class dishes bursting with local flair. We dive into the Tsachila culture, meeting locals who share their vibrant traditions, from intricate weaving to herbal lore. As night falls, our group drifts to sleep, lulled by the waterfall’s gentle roar, wrapped in the peace of this wild, sacred place.

Day 6

Valle Hermoso - Rio Blanco - Nanegalito - Quito

171 km | 106 miles

We start the final day with a refreshing dip in Kashama’s waterfall, the cool water waking our senses. Breakfast bursts with local flavors—think ripe fruit and warm bread—fueling our group for the climb into the Andes. The road twists and curls, a thrilling dance through foothills dotted with coffee farms, avocado groves, and exotic fruits, the air growing crisp as we rise.

In the Rio Blanco valley, we ride alongside a wide river beloved by kayakers, its flow a steady hum beneath our tires. At Rio Sucio Falls, we pause to swim in crystalline pools or lounge under the cascade’s mist, savoring snacks from nearby stalls. Our group sprawls on the rocks, swapping stories, the waterfall’s roar weaving us into the moment.

The climb continues into the cloudforest, where we zip-line through misty canopies, hearts racing as we soar above the trees. Lunch brings a surprise: a restaurant swarmed by hummingbirds, their wings a dazzling blur as we dig into hearty plates. Our group feels alive, caught in the magic of this vibrant, breathing forest.

We roll on to the Pululahua Crater, a rare inhabited volcanic bowl that steals our breath with its sheer scale. Snapping photos, we marvel at its lush expanse, the group bound by the wonder of standing in such a singular place. Crossing the Equator again, we straddle hemispheres, grinning at the chance to play with the world’s invisible line.

Back in Quito, we ease into our base, where hot showers and a jacuzzi melt away the road’s dust. The honor bar tempts us with cold drinks, perfect for toasting our journey. Our group lingers, some prepping for flights, others itching to dive into Quito’s nightlife—the South American capital pulsing with cool vibes and endless possibilities.