During my stay in Riobamba, I took one day for visiting the Chimborazo. It is the highest volcano in Ecuador with 6300 meters high. There are 2 refuges at respectively 5000 and 5100 meters high. From the first refuge, a friend and I went down with mountain bike. The goal San Juan. A city located 35 kms later on and 1800 meters down.

Through the top of the Chimborazo

We first reached the first refuge with a car. From the first one to the second one, we walked a 30 mins trek. Not too long, not too steep but at 5000 meters air was lacking. It was a good warming up.

After coming back to the first refuge, we prepared ourselves to ride the bikes. I met my friend Guillaume 7 months ago in Buenos Aires. After going each in our direction, we met again recently in Cuenca.

The lunar landscape in the clouds

The first part of the way was only sands and rocks. The path gave great sensations for bikes. But the sands made it slippy, we had to pay attention. Guillaume even fell down once.

Finally, we ended into the clouds. The hard visibility forced us to slow down. Moreover, it started to be wet and cold.

After this part, my breaks started to loosen. At a point, I can’t continue without taking risks. Our guide was not able to fix them. So I changed my bike to the alternative one. Unfortunately, this new bike was older, heavier and too worn.

In the yellow fields

While we were continuing down, we left the clouds. First, we borne rain and finally after we enjoyed the sun.

Not only biking, the guide that followed us gave us explanations. He spoke about nature, traditions and ruins.

Back to the green landscape

The last part was definitely with the sun. I loved those mountains covered by a nuance of green. The path ended by being more spacious and less technic. As a conclusion, we felt less sensation and went faster.

An adventurous and wonderful day even with the clouds and rain. My only reproach was about the quality of the alternative bike the agency gave to me.