Mountain biking in Ecuador: A feast for the senses

Where in the world can you ride through cloud forest, Andean desert, banana plantations, and on the slopes of volcanoes, all in one week? Ecuador, that's where. And it's also where mountain bike holiday experts H&I Adventures have just launched their newest mountain biking tour. On this incredible, ten-day guided mountain bike trip you'll experience a feast for the senses at every turn of the pedal, in one of the most culturally and ecologically diverse countries in the world. Ecuador boasts 46 different eco-systems, 14 active volcanoes, four world heritage sites, and the highest concentration of rivers per square mile in the world. Highlights of the tour include the mouth-watering, 1,300m descent of Mamarumi, one of the most amazing downhill trails in Ecuador that weaves through the thick cover of rain forests and banana plantations, and was once the clandestine trading route of liquor smugglers. You'll also tackle the slopes of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world, and attempt to tame this dragon whose flanks are covered with petrified lava, volcanic ash, boulders and sand. Off the bike, there's the chance to experience some of the colourful culture for which Ecuador is famous, with a visit to Otavolo market, horse riding at a traditional working hacienda (ranch), and time to explore Quito, the world's first UNESCO Heritage Site. The first of these South American mountain bike adventures rolls out from 1st to 10th December and costs from £1,550 per person (ex. flights), which includes all guiding, ground transport, accommodation, most meals, and entrance fees to national parks. For more information visit H&I Adventures' website www.mountainbikeworldwide.com.