Hiking in the Ecuadorian Andes: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You
4.7
(13 reviews)
Trek through the Avenue of the Volcanoes and beyond for a true Ecuadorian mountain experience on a hiking program in the Ecuadorian Andes!
Home to some of the world’s most infamous volcanoes, including the point on Earth furthest away from its center (Chimborazo), the Andes region of Ecuador is a bastion of intrigue. The wealth of flora, fauna, and geological masterpieces make it the best way to explore the country and rock formations that have made it an iconic destination. If you wanted to take the trek of a lifetime, the Ecuadorian Andes are waiting for you! “Compare and book a certified guide for your Hiking trip with Explore-Share.com: 1500+ guides, 70+ countries and more than 8000 different programs to choose from. Take a pick from our Hiking selection. The mountains are calling!
Top hiking trips | Ecuadorian Andes
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FAQs: Hiking in Ecuadorian Andes
What should I know about Hiking Ecuadorian Andes?
The Ecuadorian Andes have been a popular climbing and hiking destination for centuries. Chimborazo was long thought to be the highest mountain on Earth, leading to many early expeditions to its summit. While it may not be the tallest peak when measuring from sea level, it is still recognized as the furthest point away from the center of the Earth.
Ecuador’s incredible biodiversity is an additional perk to hikes and treks on its mountains. The Andes are home to a wide variety of endemic species, and the country does a great job of ensuring these plants and animals have a safe place to thrive.
Many of the high-altitude points of interest remain relatively undeveloped, so you can enjoy some great remote hikes across the Andes.
Why should I choose Ecuadorian Andes for my Hiking adventure?
Equatorial Bulge!
The equator is the country's namesake, but who knew that you could find glaciers on these peaks? The wildlife and plant life that exists as you travel up and around the Andes of Ecuador is staggering and astounding - a monumental reward for such epic peaks. The vast levels of diversity that surround life at the equator are a major perk for treks through the Ecuadorian Andes.
Gigantic Geology!
You don't have to summit Chimborazo to feel like you're on top of the world. Still, many of the mountains are accessible by trek and maybe a bit of scrambling. This allows you to get up close and personal to some pretty tall objectives - Cotopaxi is 5,897 meters high! Acclimatization is never a bore, with plenty of lakes, valleys, and life-altering vistas to take in. Hiking through the Ecuadorian Andes is a profound experience that will leave you in awe of their immensity.
Myriad Options!
If you were struggling to figure out which volcano to climb, it is certainly understandable. In the Avenue of the Volcanoes alone, there are seven peaks over 17,000 feet. You can start straight from Quito and enjoy an extended tour, or head right for the heights of the Andes. Either way, you are immersed in Ecuador's glorious mountains the minute you touch down in the capital. Wherever you choose to hike is guaranteed to please! From day hikes to month-long excursions, the Ecuadorian Andes have you covered.
What can I expect from the weather during my Hiking trip in Ecuadorian Andes?
The dry season from June to September is a warm and pleasant hiking atmosphere. The rainy season has stable warm temperatures, though the rain can become cold and uncomfortable during storms. Adverse weather systems occur more frequently at higher altitudes.
Which language is predominantly spoken in the Ecuadorian Andes region?
Spanish
What currency is accepted around Ecuadorian Andes?
United States dollar (USD)
How to Get There
Quito is smack dab in the middle of the fun, so flying straight to the capital is the best way to reach the Ecuadorian Andes. It connects directly to most major South American cities, including Bogota and Lima, and connects domestically to the airport in Guayaquil. Buses are also an option within the country, though their efficacy can at times come into question.
What's the country code for the Ecuadorian Andes region?
+593
When is the best time to travel to Ecuadorian Andes for Hiking?
You can trek through the Ecuadorian Andes all year long, though the most idyllic trips occur during the dry season (June through September).
What people are saying about Hiking | Ecuadorian Andes
Sarah
The only reason I give 4 to trip rating is that the first hike at Quilotoa was disappointing. The lake was definitely worth seeing but only going down and back up was not great. We would’ve much preferred hiking at least part way along the crater edge. Even if we only had enough time for there and back.
Isabella
The trip was simply great in all aspects! I will return for more
Dsheard
The hole day was a great experience. The drive up was beautiful and fun. The walk and views were amazing it was one of the best things I've ever done. My guide Segundo was brilliant very knowledgeable and very caring making sure I was ok every step of the way. I would highly recommend this to anyone coming to Quito
Evan
Absolutely Incredible trip!! Couldn't recommend enough. Amazing terrains, hikes, food, people and guides! Such good value for money also. Cotopaxi summit day was the most challenging but worth it!
Michelle
Great trip. Summiting Cotopaxi was intense but gave us the most stunning sunrise I've ever seen in my life. The acclimation program was well thought out and the hikes were beautiful. Our guide was very knowledgeable and organized. I had a wonderful time. Bring heavy sunscreen (at least SPF 50 or better yet, 70). Also, train. I'm relatively fit--I run and climb regularly--but I wish I had done more specific training for this trip.
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