Cycling the Waterfall Route

Cycling the Route of the Waterfalls is a Banos tradition. The road from town heads east along the Pastaza gorge, descending gradually for most of the 18 kilometres to the Pailon del Diablo area. It is paved, scenic and mostly downhill, which makes it manageable for casual riders, and it is shared with buses, trucks and the occasional tour vehicle, so care is needed. Tunnels, narrow bridges and hairpin curves add interest and require attention. Bicycles are rented all over Banos, from basic city bikes to mountain bikes with suspension. A guided option removes the logistics: the operator supplies bikes, helmets, a guide who knows the stops, and a vehicle to carry riders back uphill or onward. The linked product is an all-inclusive cycling route, which is a good choice if you want company and a plan.

Typical stops include roadside viewpoints, the Manto de la Novia cable car, smaller waterfalls and the final walk to Pailon del Diablo. You can ride for the whole route or hop on the support vehicle for the more heavily trafficked sections. The experience is more about the landscape than the exercise: cloud forest gives way to subtropical vegetation, and the temperature climbs as you descend.

Safety is worth taking seriously. Wear a helmet, check brakes before leaving the shop and carry water, a rain jacket and sunscreen. Tunnels can be dark, so lights help, and traffic may pass close. Ride single file, signal clearly and stay alert on the curves. Those uncomfortable in traffic should choose the guided option with a support vehicle.

The return journey is the other half of the plan. Riding back uphill is a serious effort, so most visitors either put the bikes on a truck or take a bus. Check the arrangement in advance, since arrangements vary by rental shop, and agree on a pick-up time. If you are on a rental, ask whether the shop includes a ride back.

The ride suits fit adults, teenagers and active families. Younger children may find the distances and traffic too much, though some tours offer child seats or trailers. Timing matters: start early to avoid midday heat and afternoon cloud, and leave enough time to reach the final falls before the last transport.

Many cyclists finish with a hot-spring soak in town, which is a satisfying way to end the day. Combine this activity with the Tree House on another morning, or with canyoning and rafting for a full adventure week, and you will see why Banos is called the adventure capital of Ecuador.

If you are not an experienced cyclist, take the downhill part gently and brake early on curves. Wet pavement is slippery and tunnels can be dark, so lights and reflective clothing are wise. Some travellers prefer to cycle only part of the route, hopping on the support vehicle for the busiest stretches. Pack a small repair kit if you are renting independently, and check tyre pressure before departure.

Finish the ride with a cold drink at the falls, and take your time on the return. Families with teenagers often enjoy this ride most when it is split into short legs, with a swim or snack at each waterfall. Keep a close eye on the time, because late afternoon cloud can turn a pleasant ride into a cold, wet one, and the light fades earlier than you expect in the gorge.