OVERVIEW
This tour is designed for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic, budget-friendly experience filled with unforgettable moments. We will explore some of Ecuador’s most breathtaking landscapes, with hikes to volcanic lakes, cloud forest explorations, and encounters with local communities. Let yourself be amazed by Ecuador, a small country in size but infinite in experiences.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Arrival in Quito
Welcome to Quito, Ecuador’s capital, nestled among volcanoes and mountain ranges, making it a unique city in the Andes. If you arrive early, you can explore its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the Basilica del Voto Nacional and the stunning Church of La Compañía.
Max Altitude
2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Meals
Not included
Accomodation
Hotel in Quito city center
Distance
Airport transfer (depending on arrival time)
Optional Activities (extra cost):
- Traditional dinner in La Ronda neighborhood
- Night tour of the colonial district
Pululahua & Middle of the World
Today, we start with a visit to the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, one of the only inhabited volcanic craters in the world. Imagine being surrounded by lush green mountains that were once ablaze with lava, now fertile lands where local communities cultivate their crops.
Next, we head to the Middle of the World, where you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere. We will visit the Intiñán Museum, where interactive exhibits demonstrate the unique physical phenomena occurring at the equator. Unlike the main monument, this museum is located at the precise latitude 0°0’0” (as verified by GPS), making it a fascinating place to learn about science, Ecuadorian culture, and indigenous worldviews.
Max Altitude
2,800 m / 9,186 ft
Meals
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accomodation
Eco-lodge in Mindo
Distance
80 km / 50 mi by vehicle
Optional Activities (extra cost):
- Equator line experiments
- Ecuadorian chocolate tasting
Mindo Cloud Forest
We leave the Andes behind and descend into Mindo’s cloud forest, a biodiversity sanctuary. This magical forest, covered in mist and home to exotic birds, butterflies, and orchids, welcomes us with its pure air and vibrant nature. We’ll ride a tarabita, a thrilling cable car journey above the forest, leading to the start of our hike to the Waterfall Sanctuary. Walking through lush trails, we’ll discover hidden waterfalls where we can refresh ourselves and connect with nature’s energy.
Max Altitude
1,250 m / 4,101 ft
Meals
(Breakfast, -, -)
Accomodation
Eco-lodge in Mindo
Distance
98 km / 61 mi by vehicle
Mindo – Adventure & Relaxation
After breakfast, we immerse ourselves in activities that connect us with Mindo’s nature. We start with hummingbird watching, observing these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Next, we explore an orchid trail, surrounded by vibrant flowers, including rare endemic species. The day continues with a visit to Mindo’s butterfly garden, where we admire hundreds of colorful butterflies and learn about their life cycle in a magical and peaceful setting.
Max Altitude
1,250 m / 4,101 ft
Meals
(Breakfast, -, -)
Accomodation
Eco-lodge in Mindo
Distance
Variable depending on activities
Quilotoa Lagoon
We head to one of Ecuador’s most breathtaking sites: Quilotoa Lagoon. Its turquoise waters, steep cliffs, and mystical energy will leave you speechless.We’ll hike down to the lagoon’s shore, feeling the fresh breeze and the spiritual atmosphere. The climb back up is a challenge, but every step is worth it.
Max Altitude
3,914 m / 12,841 ft
Meals
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accomodation
Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge
Distance
180 km / 112 mi by vehicle
Cotopaxi National Park
Today, we explore Cotopaxi National Park, home to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. We begin at 4,500 m (14,764 ft) and hike to José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 m (15,953 ft), where we can observe the glaciers. The park is also ideal for spotting Andean wildlife such as condors and deer. At the end of the day, we return to Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge, the perfect base for acclimatization and relaxation.
Max Altitude
4,864 m / 15,953 ft
Meals
Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Accomodation
Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge
Distance
70 km / 43 mi by vehicle
Otavalo Indigenous Market
Otavalo Market, the largest indigenous market in Latin America, is a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. Here, Otavaleños display their colorful handicrafts, including textiles and jewelry, showcasing their rich heritage and artisanal skills. Visiting Otavalo is an immersion into indigenous traditions and Andean artistry.
Max Altitude
2,532 m / 8,307 ft
Meals
(Breakfast, -, -)
Accomodation
Hotel in Quito
Distance
180 km / 112 mi by vehicle
Departure
After an incredible week of adventures, it’s time to say goodbye to Ecuador, taking unforgettable memories with you.
Max Altitude
2,850 m / 9,350 ft
Meals
(-, -, -)
Accomodation
(-)
Distance
Transfer to the airport
SERVICES
Include
- Ground transportation
- Accommodations as detailed in the itinerary
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Professional guide
Not include
-
Alcoholic & non-alcoholicé beverages
-
Tips
-
Travel insurance
-
Personal gear
IMPORTANT DETAILS
In Ecuador you can Climb all year, but these are the seasons
High Season: June to August / December to January
Low season: February to May / September to November
Ecuador is a fantastic destination that offers plenty of options for travel lovers. In addition to the Andes, Galápagos and Amazon Jungle are also part of this amazing land.
About this tour
Difficulty: Demanding
Places: ✅ *Available
Trip-code: Number 🔺Ec +593
Duration: 8 days
Participants: Minimum: 2 Maximum: 12
Mountain Guide: Fernando Iza
Other dates / additional info: Contact us!
Legend Booking-information
EZZ – Single room supplement
- On this trip, places are still available.
- On this trip, only a few places left.
- This trip is sold out / closed.
MAPS
EQUIPMENT
- Warm hat/ Wool Cap
- Sunglasses
- Buff
- Base layers
- Daypack (25–35L)
- Gloves
- Waterproof jacket
- Trekking Poles
- Trekking Pants
- Trekking boots or Shoes
- Trekking Sicks
- Fleece jacket or down jacket.
- Quick-dry shirts
- Sun hat or cap
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Headlamp
- First aid kit
FAQ
1. What is the best time of year to climb in Ecuador?
Our tours typically include certified guides, transportation, accommodation, meals, and any necessary equipment for your activities. Specific inclusions vary depending on the tour, so be sure to check the detailed itinerary.
2. Do I need previous mountaineering experience?
Not necessarily.
- For Cotopaxi: Beginners with good fitness can join a summit program if they complete acclimatization hikes and receive basic glacier training.
- For Chimborazo and Cayambe: Prior glacier experience is highly recommended due to higher altitudes and longer summit pushes.
3. How important is acclimatization?
Acclimatization is critical. To prevent altitude sickness and improve summit chances, we recommend spending 3 to 5 days hiking at altitudes above 3,000 meters before attempting any summit over 5,000 m. Our acclimatization programs are designed to help your body adjust progressively.
4. Is a certified guide required
Yes. For safety and legal reasons, glaciated peaks like Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, Cayambe, and Antisana require an ASEGUIM/UIAGM certified mountain guide. All our guides meet this standard and have extensive experience in the Andes.
5. What gear do I need?
For glacier climbs, you need:
- Double insulated mountaineering boots
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Helmet
- Headlamp
- Warm base layers, down jacket, and waterproof outer layers
- Gloves, hat, sunglasses, backpack
We offer rental equipment if you don’t own the necessary gear.
6. Can I rent mountain equipment in Ecuador?
Yes! We provide high-quality rental equipment at our base in El Chaupi, including boots, crampons, helmets, harnesses, and more. Let us know your sizes in advance so we can reserve your gear.
7. What happens if I don’t reach the summit?
Reaching the summit is a goal, but your safety is the priority. If weather, altitude, or health conditions require turning back, our guides will make the best decision for your well-being. We always aim to provide a rewarding and safe experience, regardless of the summit outcome.
8. How many climbers per guide?
- 1:1 or 2:1 ratio for glacier climbs (1 guide for every 1 or 2 climbers).
- This is the international safety standard for climbs on Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and similar peaks.
9. Where do we stay before and after the climbs?
We use Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge, located in El Chaupi (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), as our base for acclimatization and logistics. The lodge offers:
- Comfortable beds
- Hot showers
- Healthy meals
- Breathtaking views of Iliniza, Corazón, and Cotopaxi
- It’s also the perfect spot for nearby acclimatization hikes like Saquihua (3,900 m) and Corazón (4,786 m).
10. How difficult are the climbs?
- Cotopaxi (5,897 m): Intermediate – requires good fitness and acclimatization.
- Chimborazo (6,268 m): Advanced – higher altitude, longer summit push, more demanding.
- Cayambe (5,790 m): Intermediate to advanced – technical sections and glacier travel.
- Iliniza Norte (5,126 m): Non-glaciated – great acclimatization peak.
- Iliniza Sur (5,263 m): Technical glacier climb – advanced climbers only.
11. What fitness level is required?
You should be in good physical condition, with experience hiking for 6–8 hours with a backpack. Cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance are essential. We recommend training hikes, running, or cycling at least 4–6 weeks before your trip.
12. Do I need travel or climbing insurance?
Yes. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes high-altitude mountaineering and emergency evacuation. Make sure your policy clearly covers activities over 5,000 meters.
13. What if I’m traveling solo?
No problem! Many of our climbers come solo. You can:
- Join an existing group (based on dates and availability), or
- Book a private guide for a custom experience.
- Let us know your travel dates and goals—we’ll find the best option for you.
14. How do I get to Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge or the starting point?
We offer private transportation from Quito or Latacunga directly to the lodge or trailhead. You can also take public buses to El Chaupi, but we recommend our logistics support for ease and safety.
15. Can I combine several climbs in one trip?
Absolutely! We offer multi-peak packages such as:
- Cotopaxi + Chimborazo (9-day tour)
- Cotopaxi Summit + Acclimatization Package (5-7 days)
- Climb Iliniza Norte, Cayambe, and Cotopaxi in one trip
- These allow you to gradually acclimatize and increase your summit success.
