Quito & Vicinity - Adventure Guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - page 94

On Wheels
I wouldn't want to dodge traffic on a bicycle in Quito itself,
but, once you leave the city, there is plenty of Andean
countryside to explore by mountain bike or, for the more
daring, by road bike. Check with local bicycle outfitters
listed below for specific routes and guided tours or vehicle-supported
travel.

Tour Operators & Guides

T

he following Quito-based outfitters specialize in various activi-
ties and different regions in Ecuador. Quite a few of themoperate
or arrange trips to the Andes, Amazon and Galápagos. Many other
operators along Amazonas and the surrounding Mariscal District of-
fer similar trips of decent quality. Check around to compare price and
quality, ask for references, a written contract and use the South
American Explorer's Club (

and fax [phone], [e-mail].
ec) for recent recommendations and reports.

Metropolitan Touring , Av. República de El Salvador 970 and
Naciones Unidas, in the Hilton Colón,

/fax 2-2464-
702, www.metropolitan-touring.com, [e-mail], is
by far the largest and best-known tour operator in Ecuador, offering
everything from cultural city tours to first-class Galápagos trips and
responsible high-end rainforest excursions. They specialize in large
groups.

2-2463-680,

On a much smaller scale is Safari Ecuador , Calama 380 and J.L.
Mera,

2-2552-505, fax [phone]; or Roca Pasaje 630 and

Amazonas, /fax [phone], [e-mail],

www.safari.com.ec. From the US,

2-2234-799,

800-434-8182. They specialize in
volcano climbs and provide a wide variety of services, from one-day
natural and cultural tours to multi-day jungle trips. Everyone that
works for Safari, which is jointly operated by British and Ecuadorian
owners, is friendly and knowledgeable. Climbing guides are certified
by ASEGUIM (the Association of Mountain Guides of Ecuador).

Andisimo Travel , Av. 9 de Octubre 479, 2-2508-347, www.

andisimo.com, [e-mail], offers climbing and trekking
throughout the Andes. They also rent and sell climbing and outdoor
gear. Other

climbing/mountaineering outfitters include La