Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT THE FREE BIKING TOURS:
The tour works under the free tour concept: The basis of this concept is that the client does not pay a set fee for the tour guide’s service. At the end of the tour it is common to leave a tip to the guide as a thank you for providing this tour.
In our free tours you only pay what you feel appropriate, based on how much you enjoyed the tour.
There is no fixed amount. Tips are entirely voluntary and based on your experience and budget.
Most participants contribute between $15 and $20 USD per person, although any contribution is appreciated and helps support our local guides.
Everyone can participate, but they have to know how to ride a bike.
The tours are suitable for all ages, but those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
For people who have just arrived in the city from low latitudes, it is recommended to wait a few days before taking the tour to get used to the altitude.
Public Bike Station #13 – El Centenario
(12 de Abril & Fray Vicente Solano, in front of Banco Pichincha)
Look for the red and grey public bikes.
The Free Biking Tours start at 10:00 am and 03:00 pm.
We thank you for being at the Meeting Point 10 minutes before the tour starts.
Yes, you can!
You know what they say: “Riding a bike is something you never forget.”
Our tours are on flat, safe tracks most of the route is downhill and we travel 8 kilometers in total.
Yes, it is recommended to make a reservation to guarantee your place on the tour, since availability is limited.
It is recommended to bring comfortable, sports clothing, sunscreen, a bottle of water and a light jacket, preferably rainproof.
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, it can be a little more or less depending on the group.
In case of bad weather, we will notify you in advance if the tour must be canceled or rescheduled.
Yes, the tours include stops at points of interest where the guide provides historical, natural and cultural information.
The tours are in English and Spanish, you have to choose the language when you fill out the reservation form.
ABOUT THE BIKES:
Yes. Access to Cuenca’s public bike system is included during the tour.
The tour also includes a practical introduction to Cuenca’s public bike system, so you can continue exploring the city on your own after the experience.
Yes, you can.
If you prefer, you may join the tour with your own bicycle. However, many participants choose to use Cuenca’s public bike system as part of the experience and to learn how it works.
The tour uses bicycles from Cuenca’s public bike system. These bicycles feature a lightweight aluminum frame, adjustable saddle, 3-speed gears, fenders, reflective safety elements, a bell, rear-view mirror, kickstand, and a front basket for personal belongings.
They are designed for comfortable and easy riding around the city.
Yes.
The public bike system is available for residents and visitors. During the tour, we explain how the system works and how you can continue using it independently to explore more of the city after the experience.
We believe bicycles are one of the best ways to experience Cuenca. By using the public bike system, visitors can discover the city in a sustainable way while learning a practical transportation option they can continue using during their stay.
BOOKING/CANCELLATION:
Bookings can be made 24 hours in advance, but are always subject to the number of places and the number of bikes available. For this reason and because our groups have a small number of participants, we advise you to make your booking as far in advance as possible.
1. Complete the reservation form with your information and submit it.
2. If spaces are available, you will receive a confirmation email and a WhatsApp message. Confirmations are processed manually to ensure the best possible experience, so response times may be up to 24 hours. To guarantee a spot, we recommend booking at least 24 hours in advance.
3. Meet your local guide at the meeting point. Your guide will assist you with access to Cuenca’s public bike system and lead you through a unique cultural experience while sharing local stories, recommendations and insights about the city.
You should keep in mind that our tours are for a very restricted group of people, the groups are very small. For this reason, whenever you have a booking and can’t attend, you must send us an email (cuencabiketours@gmail.com) or write to us on WhatsApp (+593 97 882 1902) as far in advance as possible. If you don’t do this, you impeding the participation of others.
You have to send us an email (cuencabiketours@gmail.com) or write to us on WhatsApp (+593 97 882 1902) with that indication at least 48 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. You must inform your name, the booking number, how many people, the initial booking date and the new date.
OTHER QUESTIONS:
We have private tours that adapt to your preferences and schedules, you can review them by clicking here.