The best cycling routes in Otavalo

Otavalo offers a selection of touring cycling routes, with over 7 routes documented on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from moderate to difficult, allowing cyclists to explore the diverse Andean landscapes.

Touring cyclists in Otavalo will encounter a mix of dirt and paved roads. Routes wind through forests, natural reserves, and rural Andean landscapes, often providing impressive views of surrounding volcanoes and mountainous villages. You can expect to cycle through paramo grasslands and past high-altitude lakes.

While many routes are challenging, there are moderate options available. For example, the Otavalo Town Center loop from Otavalo is a moderate 17.1-mile (27.6 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 51 minutes, leading through the immediate surroundings of the town. Another moderate option is the Otavalo Town Center loop from Parque Jacinto Collahuazo, which is 18.5 km long.

Yes, Otavalo offers several difficult routes for experienced touring cyclists. The Zuleta – Santa Marianita de San Antonio loop from Ibarra is a demanding 39.6-mile (63.7 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering extensive views of the Andean landscape. Another challenging option is the Road to Imantag – Otavalo Town Center loop from Ibarra, covering 68.5 km.

Absolutely. The region is known for its stunning high-altitude lakes. You can cycle near or to destinations like Laguna Grande de Mojanda, part of a complex of three lakes within an extinct volcanic caldera, or the picturesque San Pablo Lake, located at the foot of Imbabura Volcano.

Yes, the sacred Peguche Waterfall is a notable natural attraction near Otavalo. While the immediate area around the falls might require a short walk, many cycling routes pass close enough for a visit, allowing you to experience this 30-meter high waterfall surrounded by lush eucalyptus trees.

Beyond the lakes and waterfalls, touring cycling routes in Otavalo offer views of diverse volcanic landscapes and paramo grasslands. You might encounter highlights such as the Cuicocha Lagoon Loop Trailhead, which provides access to the breathtaking volcanic crater lake, or scenic viewpoints like Scenic viewpoint Lagunas de Mojanda, offering panoramic vistas of the high-altitude lakes.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Otavalo are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Zuleta – Otavalo Town Center loop from Ibarra, a difficult 67.6-mile (108.7 km) path traversing varied terrain, and the moderate Otavalo Town Center loop from Otavalo.

The touring cycling routes in Otavalo are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.75 stars from over 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning volcanic landscapes, the diverse mix of paved and unpaved roads, and the opportunities to immerse themselves in the rich Andean culture and natural beauty.

Otavalo's climate is generally mild year-round due to its Andean highland location. However, the dry season, typically from June to September, offers more consistent sunny weather and clearer views, making it ideal for touring cycling. The shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November) can also be good, though with a higher chance of rain.

While many routes involve significant elevation changes and distances, some of the shorter, moderate loops around the town center or along flatter sections near San Pablo Lake could be suitable for families with older children or those accustomed to cycling. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Otavalo is well-connected by public transport, primarily buses, from major cities like Quito. Once in Otavalo, local buses or taxis can help you reach various starting points for routes. For routes starting further afield, like those from Ibarra, inter-city buses are a common and affordable option, though transporting bikes might require specific arrangements or a bike-friendly taxi.