Hiking in Ecuador: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Ecuador was designed for epic treks and hikes. Weather can be particularly volatile for high-altitude adventures, so planning a few extra days to accommodate possible disruptions to a program is a good idea. Some national parks and refuges require fees and/or permits, so plan accordingly when preparing for a trip. Acclimatization is also a crucial part of hiking in Ecuador. The Inca Trail is an added bonus for any history buffs interested in pre-Columbian culture in South America.

Avenue of the Volcanoes!

It would be difficult to argue about the world-class stature of Ecuador’s volcanoes. Seven of its peaks exceed 5,180 meters - one of them the furthest point on Earth’s surface away from its center - and the associated parks and refuges make it a geological gem you have to experience.

Incomparable Biodiversity!

Ecuador is the epitome of biodiversity. It has been discovered that 16% of the world’s bird species call this country home, a staggering statistic for such a small place. Similar figures are true for amphibian and reptile species, while plant life is even more impressive. The Amazon, the Andes, the Galapagos Islands, the 1,452-mile coast on the Pacific, and everything in between make Ecuador an adventure lover’s dream.

Coastal Treasures!

The Pacific Ocean and its extensive coastline bordering western Ecuador is exciting and relaxing all at once. With relatively easy access from Quito and Guayaquil, they provide a different approach to the country than a volcano tour or an Amazonian immersion. From quieter sandy retreats like Tonsupa and fishing villages like Mompiche to the suring haven of Montanita and its gnarly waves, there is literally a beach for everyone. Expats, tourists, and Ecuadorians have a place at the beach.

The elevation of Ecuador greatly influences its climate. The dry season lasts from June to September, while the wet season takes place from October to May. The equatorial location makes the temperature typically warm, with hot and rainy months along the coast from January to April.

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Ecuador is loaded with compelling flora, fauna, and geology, so multiple lifetimes may not be enough time to explore it all. Depending on your adventure, you can spend months in the Avenue of the Volcanoes, ship out to the Galapagos Islands, or just hike around the coastal provinces. Either way, you can feasibly spend a season or two dedicated to the discovery of the amazing worlds within Ecuador.

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The best season to explore Ecuador is from October through March, though there are programs offered year round depending on the trip. Be aware of the dry and wet seasons as volatile weather can get in the way of a productive trip.