THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ride 25 miles from the Andean highlands to the warm Yunguilla valley on El Camino Viejo. Mostly downhill, this guided mountain- or e-bike tour mixes sweeping views, local culture in Girón, and a taste of sugarcane juice.
Ride 25 miles from the Andean highlands to the warm Yunguilla valley on El Camino Viejo. Mostly downhill, this guided mountain- or e-bike tour mixes sweeping views, local culture in Girón, and a taste of sugarcane juice.
You stand at El Portete de Tarqui at about 9,064 feet, wind cutting across the divide as the first pedals click into place. Below, a dirt ribbon—El Camino Viejo—unfurls through native forest, farms and patchwork pastures; the highlands give way to warmer valleys as the world tilts with each mile.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Runa Way Adventours · Cuenca, Azuay
You stand at El Portete de Tarqui at about 9,064 feet, wind cutting across the divide as the first pedals click into place. Below, a dirt ribbon—El Camino Viejo—unfurls through native forest, farms and patchwork pastures; the highlands give way to warmer valleys as the world tilts with each mile.
Geology here is hands-on: ancient uplifted volcanic and sedimentary slopes that form the continental divide sculpt the descent, while the climate shifts through distinct ecological floors. Culturally the route threads small Andean communities—Girón’s colonial square and the Casa de los Tratados museum reflect 19th-century local history—and finishes in the inter-Andean Yunguilla valley, where fruit trees and sugarcane thrive and roadside vendors press fresh guarapo.
The ride covers roughly 25 miles, about 80% downhill with intermittent flat or uphill sections, on a firm dirt road suited to mountain bikes or e-bikes. Expect 6–7 hours including transport from Cuenca, stops in Girón, and a valley break for juice. Guides provide helmets, bottled water, snacks and private transport; e-bikes are available to ease long descents.
Practical notes: layers are essential—start chilly, finish warm—bring a spare tube, basic tools and sunscreen. Moderate fitness and basic off-road handling will keep you comfortable on loose sections. Plan an early start for cooler temperatures and clearer light, and ride respectfully through farms and villages to support local hosts and minimize erosion.
Yes—e-bikes are offered as an option to make the long descent and occasional climbs easier; request when booking.
The route is roughly 25 miles with a start around 9,064 ft at El Portete de Tarqui descending into lower inter-Andean valleys; expect significant net descent with some short ascents.
Private pick-up and drop-off in Cuenca are included, with about a one-hour transfer to the highland start point.
Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions; moderate fitness is required.
Runa Way Adventours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You stand at El Portete de Tarqui at about 9,064 feet, wind cutting across the divide as the first pedals click into place. Below, a dirt ribbon—El Camino Viejo—unfurls through native forest, farms and patchwork pastures; the highlands give way to warmer valleys as the world tilts with each mile.
You stand at El Portete de Tarqui at about 9,064 feet, wind cutting across the divide as the first pedals click into place. Below, a dirt ribbon—El Camino Viejo—unfurls through native forest, farms and patchwork pastures; the highlands give way to warmer valleys as the world tilts with each mile.
Geology here is hands-on: ancient uplifted volcanic and sedimentary slopes that form the continental divide sculpt the descent, while the climate shifts through distinct ecological floors. Culturally the route threads small Andean communities—Girón’s colonial square and the Casa de los Tratados museum reflect 19th-century local history—and finishes in the inter-Andean Yunguilla valley, where fruit trees and sugarcane thrive and roadside vendors press fresh guarapo.
The ride covers roughly 25 miles, about 80% downhill with intermittent flat or uphill sections, on a firm dirt road suited to mountain bikes or e-bikes. Expect 6–7 hours including transport from Cuenca, stops in Girón, and a valley break for juice. Guides provide helmets, bottled water, snacks and private transport; e-bikes are available to ease long descents.
Practical notes: layers are essential—start chilly, finish warm—bring a spare tube, basic tools and sunscreen. Moderate fitness and basic off-road handling will keep you comfortable on loose sections. Plan an early start for cooler temperatures and clearer light, and ride respectfully through farms and villages to support local hosts and minimize erosion.