Do you love to travel and explore beautiful places? Then, it’s great for you to try trekking in Ecuador. One of the smallest countries in Southern America, Ecuador offers you rich mountains and ecosystem that’s perfect for trekking.
Are you excited to explore other cultures? Ecuador shows you a unique culture you like to see. Climbers and trekkers have a chance to travel glaciated peaks, coastal beaches, Amazon rainforest, and more. Here, you can enjoy hiking alone or with your family or friends. You can explore rural areas that are perfect for the trekking adventure you want to experience.
Why Hike or Trek in Ecuador?
Ecuador has diverse mountain peaks, grassy plains and ecosystems you can hike or trek. If you like to see volcanic peaks, there are the Cotopaxi volcanoes. You can enjoy walking by foot from the cloud forest to the rainforest. Get ready to discover famous Incan ruins such as the Ingapirca. Hikers would enjoy nature’s beauty in Ecuador in seeing these great sites.
Wanderer can access a variety of routes that offer them mountain trails that are superb to pass through. If you’re in the Andes, few of the best treks for you are the Pucayacu, Chugchilan or the Golondrinas hike. You can also engage in the rainforest and coastal hikes, but it’s wise to hire a tour guide so that you wouldn’t get lost in the place.
Do you like to experience an awesome adventure? Then, take a canoe trip to Yasuni and Tiputini that gives you a fascinating view of the river area. You can talk with the indigenous people and know their culture. It offers you a memorable experience as you communicate with them and see the other rivers you haven’t seen before.
Best Places for Hiking in Ecuador
Ecuador offers you big opportunity to relax, enjoy and take a great adventure. Have you wondered what great discoveries await you here? Now is the right to discover Ecuador’s beauty through its stunning mountain peaks, volcanoes, coastlines and more.
Trekkers and climbers would enjoy seeing the towering Andes or going to Quito. Mountain climbers can visit and climb the Chimborazo and reach Ecuadors highest summit. Other than reaching the summit, hikers also can climb mountains that set their adventure to the limit.
Get ready to experience the best adventure of your life as you visit these best places to hike in Ecuador.
Parque Metropolitano in Quito
Hikers who aim to have an exciting experience at Ecuador can take the 10-kilometer route that lets you walk on many side trails. The Parque Metropolitano covers 600 hectares in the northern Batan Alto, Quito. Hikers can enjoy seeing the Cotacachi, Antisana, Cotopaxi and other volcanoes. The Parque Metropolitano is perfect for people who want to enjoy and have fun.
The beautiful sites of Parque Metropolitano make this park amazing to see and give true delight to hikers. Give the park routes walk and treasure the experience you would gain from the trek.
Quilotoa Loop
Climbers and trekker would have the breathtaking experience to see the Quilotoa lagoon at the Quilotoa Loop. Experience a 30-kilometer trek between Sigchos and the Quilotoa villages. The whole trek isn’t only exciting but also memorable for trekkers and climbers.
Quilotoa Loop takes a newbie and pro mountain climbers to an excellent hiking experience they would like. The trail is awesome every time you make the trek. It’s also fun to bring friends and family members to the adventure.
See our Quilotoa Tour if you are interested in making our way down to the lake.
Pichinchas
Who agrees that riding on a cable is also exciting like walking? Climbers will be charmed and excited if they ride on a cable car that takes them on an exciting adventure. The teleférico, a cable car takes you 13,451 feet towards Pichinchas. From here, you embark on an exciting trek adventure that lets you hike up mountains and reach summits.
Each hiker would feel the excitement as they see wonderful site along the way. Trekkers would be surprised how the trek goes as it offers you an excellent adventure you would remember for a lifetime.
Pululahua Crater
Trekkers would be amazed to see this extinct volcano’s crater that’s the biggest crater in South America. The crater is 2.5 miles wide and 984 deep. You can see crops grow on the crater’s fertile surface. Trekkers need to ride on a bus to the Pululahua volcano (north of Quito). The place is excellent for sightseeing and for people who seek adventure.
Climbers can also enjoy great bonding time here. The place is full of exciting discoveries that makes trek adventure fun. The trails towards the volcano provide you with a memorable experience that’s worth your time. Prepare to see the Pululahua Crater and experience an adventure that makes you want to visit Ecuador again.
Cotopaxi Volcano
Cotopaxi and the avenue of volcanoes.
Anyone who sees the Cotopaxi volcano would say that’s it’s a magnificent active volcano that measures 19, 347 feet. No doubt – Cotopaxi volcano is the tallest volcano you would see. Expect to see that there are a hundred people in the Cotopaxi National Park who wants to climb the volcano. The trek up the volcano is perfect for adventurous climbers.
Hikers can select the different trails such as the moderate day hike and the multi-day hike. If you want to experience a little challenge, the multi-day climb is perfect for you. When you reach the volcano’s top, expect breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. Climbers always experience a great time in climbing the summit of the volcano. The hiking experience offer climbers big opportunity to enjoy mountain climbing.
See our Cotopaxi Bike and Hike Tour if you are interested in hiking in the Cotopaxi Nacional Park.
Chimborazo Volcano
Climbers would expect great challenges through the multiple trails toward the volcano. The Chimborazo volcano has 20, 549.4 feet that’s measured from Earth’s center. So the volcano is the highest mountain seen from the Eearth’s cente. The top of the Chimborazo is the closed point on earth to the sun. Trekkers are advised to take preparation to ensure they would climb the summit. You can hire a hiking guide to assure you wouldn’t get lost.
The trails up the volcano’s summit are very challenging for pro and new hikers. If you’re a new hiker, the trek gives you the challenge you want. The trails provide not only a challenge but also a superb sightseeing experience. Solo or group climbers are welcome to take the hiking challenge and expect to gain satisfaction.
Lake Cuicocha
Experience a breathtaking view of Lake Cuicocha as climbers see a little island on the lake’s center. If you love butterfly and bird watching, you can do that here. Climbers need to hike for four hours before seeing the lake. Professional climbers find the trail towards the lake challenging but fun. There are lots of beautiful sceneries that are worth seeing.
Since the hike takes four hours, hikers are advised to bring enough water, snacks, sunblock and other things they need. Trekkers would find the trekking experience enjoyable as they get chance to talk to other hikers. For solo climbers, the beauty of the site is enchanting so you wouldn’t get bored as you reach your destination. Climbers can take pictures and nature fully during the entire hike. Also, each moment on the trail is a treasure as the hike lets you see the beauty of Lake Cuicocha.
Antisana Volcano
Hikers would love to see the Antisana volcano due to its beauty. Antisana is the 4th largest volcano in Ecuador, and it last erupted in 1802. The trail going up the volcano offers climbers exciting scenery that’s fascinating to watch. You can go the Antisana National Park and do exciting activities here such as bird watching.
The Antisana National Park is a great and exciting place for you to enjoy and have fun with your family. The site is excellent for new campers and hikers because they have a chance to enjoy Antisana’s beauty. Climbers can take pictures and do biking activities to make their visit to the park exciting. Also, it’s nice to treasure the moment by taking pictures of the park and the volcano.
Ilaló
Trekkers who are looking for an easy climb to the Ilaló volcano find the hiking easy. The Ilaló volcano is located 8 km on the eastern part of Quito. For new hikers, the trail up the volcano is easy and safe. You can climb the volcano in half a day. The sites you see are beautiful and overwhelming that brings you close to nature.
The half a day walk give hikers the chance to explore the site and do lots of activities. Trekkers can relax and enjoy when they reach the volcano’s top. It’s up to you if you hire a guide or not as long you have the right directions up the volcano. For pro hikers, the hike offers then a new experience they can treasure with their friends and family.
Remember to bring the important hiking gear before you climb the volcano. It’s fun and enjoyable if you pack foods, snacks, and toilets that would make your hike worth it.
Fuya Fuya
With 4, 200m summit, the Fuya Fuya is a great mountain that offers you a superb hiking experience. The volcano is located at Mojanda, and that lets you enjoy seeing the beautiful glacial lakes. The glacial lakes are beautiful and breathtaking to see. Take time to enjoy the moment with fellow climbers, and you take pictures of the mountain.
The trail up the mountain is challenging for new climbers, but it would give them a great time. Here, you would discover other sites that are worth seeing. The trek gives you a great adventure you would enjoy as you take the journey up Fuya Fuya.
Climbers can bring cameras for them to take pictures of the amazing sites. Nature is within your reach when you’re on top of Fuya Fuya. Expect to see other climbers as you trek. Climbers can share their stories and hike experiences with you that make the trekking adventure exciting. Climbers who climb the Fuya Fuya Mountain would have a great time.
You take pictures of the glacial lakes and share them with your friends. The lakes are formed from glacial volcanoes, and it’s terrific to see these with other climbers.
Casa Del Arbol, Baños
The Baños is a great town that’s famous for its hot springs and trails that leads to the Casa Del Arbol. Climbers have to option on the hike – the trail or the road. We suggest you take the trail so that you and see the Virgin Mary’s statue that looks over the town. The 4 to 5-hour hike gives hikers a new hiking experience when they reach the top.
Hikers find the view breathtaking and worth it due to the beauty climbers can see. The way to Casa Del Arbol is perfect for new and old hikers. Few of the great reasons for that is the enjoyment they can see. The view is terrific to see, so it’s good that you bring your camera. Excitement and fun are always present as you take the hike with other peopel.
The entrance price is $1, so all climber who wants to enjoy the view can do it. You can hop on a swing and enjoy other activities with other climbers. Trekkers can also take the opportunity to explore other places at Casa Del Arbol.
Mandango Loop
Hikers who visited the Vilcabamba town have a great experience here due to the fresh air and friendly people they meet. But, that’s not all. Vilcabamba is also popular because of the Mandango Loop you can find here. The hike to Mandango is terrific, but experienced hikers can do the trek due to the windy trail and narrow path. If you’re not scared of heights, then you accept the challenge to climb the mountain.
Hikers are advised to hire a guide for them to make the trek easy. The guide can give hikers directions and extra safety tips to make the hike safe. Some climbers were lost in the trail so make sure that you bring a map and compass before you hike. A detailed trail description is also good to familiarize the places you would visit on the trek.
When you reach the mountain’s top view, climbers will witness an excellent view they would like. Before you pack, make sure you bring complete hiking gear. Examples of these are clothes, gloves, snacks and more to ensure you enjoy the trek.
Lagunas de Mojannda
You hike at Lagunas de Mojannda where you can see wildflowers, bugs and grassy lands. Lagunas de Mojannda offers you a chance to enjoy nature and have a good time with other climbers. The sites are amazing for old and new climbers, so it’s great to bring your camera with you. The ride to Lagunas is very accessible to taxi and car.
Hikers can arrange for advance transportation that allows them to enjoy the whole hike. Before you hike, you make sure your duffel bags and backpack have the important things you need. As climbers, you also need to bring prescription drugs to ensure you’re during the hike. Water, sunscreen, lotion, and insect repellents are important for climbers. So, you pack your bags now and experience an exciting trek that’s amazing!
Papallacta
Hot springs are famous at Papallacta, and many tourists find it amazing to bathe at Termas Papallacta. Why? You can find different pools here that gives you a soothing feeling. The Termas area is also majestic for its awesome views and welcoming ambiance. Get ready to discover other animals in the area such as the pampas cat, weasels, and opossums.
Trekkers can enjoy the trekking adventure as they take pictures of the animals and other sites. The view from Papallacta is captivating that makes climbers want to see it. For newbie hikers, it’s an exciting experience to bathe at the Termas due to the excitement it offers. The different pool selection adds to the delight of every hiker to achieve fun while hiking.
Some climbers take pictures of the animals and show it to their family. Climbers can also take the opportunity to learn new ideas from other climbers during the trek. It’s cool to learn new things that you can use on your future hiking trips.
Pasochoa
As an extinct volcano, the Pasochoa offers an excellent view for new and experienced hikers. The 4,200m feet volcano is perfect for hiking due to its beautiful settings and accessible location. Climbers would enjoy the breeze and spend fun activities here such a bird watching. The climbers can enjoy the moment by taking pictures.
The Pasochoa is also a perfect place where you can embrace nature and have fun. The hike proves exciting to hikers who are in search of a new adventure. Yes, hikers can enjoy great time hiking due to the comfortable location Pasochoa offers. It’s a destination you would love to visit so hire a guide and visit the place. You can also go on your own, it is close to Quito.
Cayambe
Being the 3rd tallest mountain in Ecuador, Cayambe is the perfect place for those who like glacier trekking. Climbers would like the challenge as provides a superb trail that’s fun and challenging. The accessible trail makes the hiking an adventure for hikers. When you reach the summit, you would see an amazing view.
Hikers love the cool breeze and the fascinating sites the see. It’s up to you to hire a guide or not but make sure you’re ready for the trek.
Corazon
Beginners can enjoy an enjoyable and comfortable hiking experience in Corazon because it’s a straight route. The surrounding landscapes such as the Cotopaxi and other mountains offer a great view. You don’t have to bring large equipment due to the simple route.
Trekkers can take pictures of the other sites such as the Cotopaxi volcano. The entire trek is easy and enjoyable, so even pro climbers would enjoy it. Climbers can share their trekking experience with other hikers as they go to the volcano’s top. You enjoy the hike and get ideas that help you in your future hiking experience.
These places offer you an exciting adventure of a lifetime. Get ready to explore unique and beautiful places that you can find in Ecuador. Hikers would be thrilled and happy to visit Ecuador and see these amazing destinations. Let the adventure begin at Ecuador!
Devil’s Nose Trekking, Alausi
If you’re in Alausi (or planning a trip there), you’re probably familiar with the Nariz Del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) train ride — or at the very least, you’re aware that Ecuador’s Trans-Andean railroad cuts right through the heart of this understated little town in the rural province of Chimborazo. But did you know you can also hike it?
More information about the Devil’s Nose Trekking in Alausi.
Here you can find some tips for your trekking adventures:
Transportation
For trekkers and climbers, it’s great to rent a vehicle in Quito. If you’re on a budget, it’s best to ride the local bus in Quito then you ride a pickup truck towards the community you want to visit. It’s easy to find organized tour transportation, so it’s fast for you to get to your destination.
Entrance Fees to National Parks
The national parks at Ecuador are beautiful and have a charming ambiance that hikers would love to see. Entrance fees to these parks run from 5 to 10 USD.
Guide Services
A good tip for hikers or trekkers: don’t select cheap guide services if you’re hiking in Ecuador. Why? Most of the cheap guide services don’t know much about mountain climbing that might put you in great danger. It’s wise to check for the best and reliable guide services in Ecuador before you hire guide services.
You check if the hiking and trekking operators are qualified for the services they’re offering. You take note of the experience they have in guiding climbers. A vast guide experience adds to their credibility to serve trekkers and climbers. Remember: your trek to Andes or Amazon would be delightful if you have reliable and experienced guide services providers.
What to Bring in Your Hike in Ecuador?
Before you climb the grassy mountain peaks, you need to be prepared for the trek you would do. Excellent preparation makes your climbing and trekking fast and easy. If it’s your first time to trek, then take time to know the important things to bring with you in your mountain trekking.
Clothing
Climbers and trekkers need to prepare right and comfortable clothing to give them no hassle during mountain climbing. It’s best to buy synthetic and dry cotton under layers that cover t-shirts and underwear.
Here are examples of the clothes you need to buy for your trekking or climbing adventure:
- Two t-shirts that are either synthetic or cotton.
- Sweater or flannel shirt is great. But, it’s good if you choose woolen sweaters duet to its extra protection.
- Polar, wind or jackets that have quality fabrics.
- Synthetic pants that are easy to dry is a good choice.
- 1 pair of light or silk gloves.
- Two pairs of mittens, polar or wool gloves.
- A pair of synthetic or wool socks.
Trek and Climbing Equipment
Pro or newbie trekkers or climbers need to bring the right camping tools for them to achieve success in their trekking and climbing tasks. What equipment do you need to have if you’re going for a trekking or climbing adventure in Ecuador?
- Mountain helmet that you can rent.
- Pair of gaiters.
- Sleeping bag.
- Mountain or glacier sunglasses.
- Head or frontal lamps for your night departures. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries.
- Water bottles.
- Plastic bags.
- Trekking poles (optional).
- Footwear.
Mountain climbing and trekking is fun and enjoyable. But before you hit the road, you need to have adequate footwear to protect your feet from dust, dirt, and other things that cause infection. The following are the recommended footwear you should bring:
Trekking Boots
Don’t leave your hotel or tent without trekking boots. For adventurous trekkers, lightweight and waterproof boots are excellent for hours of trekking. You can select between low or high cut boots depending on your preference.
Mountaineering Boots
Get ready to climb the high picks at Ecuador by using mountaineering boots. You can buy plastic boots if you want to climb the peaks of Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, etc. Leather boots are fine but make sure that these are waterproof and have rigid soles.
Backpacks
Baggage or backpacks are important for you to keep your equipment safe. Your backpack should be quality and fit for long hours of trekking and climbing. Regarding the size, hikers need to have small and large backpacks for their equipment.
Duffel Bag
It’s wise for you to buy a duffel bag where you can put your personal belongings and gears. You can leave the duffel bag in the hotel for safety reasons.
Large Backpack
You put your mountain gear and other items on a large backpack so that you would always be ready to use it.
Small Backpack
Climbers and trekkers can also bring a small backpack depending on their comfort and preference.
Toiletries
It’s hard to find markets or shops where you’re in the mountains, so you need to prepare to bring toiletries. These make your hiking and trekking adventure comfortable because you don’t need to run for the market that sells soaps, shampoo, etc.
- Shampoo.
- Soap.
- Hairbrush.
- Toothbrush.
- Toothpaste.
- Deodorant.
- Hand wipes.
- Lotion.
- Sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Toilet paper.
- Facial Tissue.
- Towel and washcloth.
- First Aid Kits.
If you’re part of a trekking group, you can assign one member who keeps the first aid kit. You make sure that the first aid kit is complete with the prescription drugs, band-aids, and other thin need in your mountain travels.
- Prescription medicines.
- Band-aids or plaster.
- Antibiotic ointment.
- Disinfectant.
- Vitamins.
- Tape.
- Gauze bandages.
Important Things to Consider Before You Hike at Ecuador
Now, you know that the hiking and trekking things you need to bring in your adventure. Let’s take note of the things you need to consider if before you start your mountain adventure at Ecuador
Plan Your Destination
Wanderes who aim to boost their packing strategy can consider the obvious – their itinerary. Where do you wish to go to Ecuador? Since Ecuador has diverse mountain peaks and grassy plains, you pick the right outfit those places. You observe the weather so that you would be comfortable on your hiking adventure.
Bring a swimsuit if you like to take a swim on the coasts of Ecuador. If it’s cold on the place, you take a sweater with you for your comfort. Trekkers who plan to go to jungles can bring quick-dry clothes because it’s rainy on these places. You can also wear a large raincoat if you prefer it.
Do you want to have a swift and comfortable climb to the Andes? Then, you bring warm clothing such as jackets, gloves or mittens to keep your body warm. Climbers who love the temperature coast can wear shorts and t-shirts or long sleeved shirts when night comes.
Pick the Right Bag
Your gears and equipment should always be safe when you climb high peaks. So, don’t forget to bring the right bag such as a duffel bag or backpack. These bags have excellent quality materials and perfect for long trekking hours. Don’t bring hand sided bags because these become uncomfortable when you walk the uneven roads at Ecuador. Also, don’t think of bringing wheeled luggage as these would sling on the top of trucks and busses.
For your jungle or off the coast adventure, s small backpack would be nice. You pick the backpack that’s comfortable for you so that you wouldn’t feel hassles on the road. Remember: backpacks serve not only as storage for your items. It also serves as a source of comfort for you. So, always keep in mind to bring the right bag when you plan to go to Ecuador. You can do a great thing and feel comfortable during the entire trekking and climbing adventure.
Prepare for Toiletry Bag
Besides your backpack, you also need to buy toiletries. It’s essential so that you feel comfortable during long trips. You can find varieties of soaps, shampoo, etc. at shops in Ecuador. If you’re going to Galapagos, you need to buy toiletries to aid you on your long trip. Don’t forget! You hire services from a guide so that you have accurate info on the place you would visit.
Also, it’s wise to remember to include medical kits in your toiletry bag. You include prescription drugs, lotion, insect repellent, and other med aid priorities for you to safe jungle treks. Consult your doctor before you go any trek to Ecuador.
Pack Extra Stuff
Add excitement to your climbing and trekking adventure by packing extra but useful stuff in your bag. It’s great if you have spare gear that would make your hiking adventure memorable.
The following are extra travel gear that you might want to bring while you climb mountains at Ecuador:
Water purifier and water bottle – Water is important during long hiking hours. Hikers focus on their health and safety so reusable water bottle and water purifier are excellent things to include on your bag to ensure you don’t suffer dehydration.
Sunscreen – Don’t let sunburn ruin your trek on the coasts of Ecuador, so you pack sunscreens, so you’re safe from the extreme heat of the sun. It’s best to bring extra sunscreens if you plan to hike in other hot areas of Ecuador.
Compression Sacs – in case you’re in the jungle and it rains suddenly, you pack compression sacs to keep your things dry. It would be annoying on your part if you’re items might get wet. It’s a big help to see all your personal belongings are dry all the time.
If you like to bring your jewelry on trips, it’s best to leave your jewelry at home. You don’t want your rings or bracelets to be lost in the park or jungle. So, leave your jewelry at home, and all things would work well.
Excellent Packing Tips
Consider the Time You Would Travel to Ecuador
Different seasons mean you should think about the clothes you would bring on the trek. If you plan to hike during the rainy season, bring big sweaters. It’s wise also to bring boots that prevent mud or dirt from getting into the feet. Meanwhile, the summer season allows you to bring comfortable clothing such as t-shirts or shorts. Don’t forget to bring sunblock and sunscreens to protect your skin from extreme heat.
Pack Clothes that Offers Double Purpose
Your clothes might provide double purpose during your trek adventure. For example, you can use your sweater to cover your face from dust. The scarf is a good alternative for a sarong that you can use at the beach. Also, your gloves might become handy if you need to keep your hands dry from the rain.
Use a Backpack Rather Than A Traditional Suitcase
If you’re hiking, it’s good to consider your comfort while you’re walking or riding a bus. Ecuador has unpaved trails that are uncomfortable for you if you bring a suitcase. But with a backpack, you’re sure that it’s easy for you to travel on foot. You can put your trek gear on a backpack and keep your items safe. Also, you can select whether you bring a big or small backpack that depends on your preference.
Plan Ahead
Hikers who plan think about the items they need for the trip. Let’s say you plan to go to the coasts of Ecuador. Few of the important thing you would need are shorts, t-shirts, sunscreens, etc. Before you pack, you think about the weather condition in some places in Ecuador. You can decide when or where you need to go.
