Hiking in the Ecuadorian Andes: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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You can trek through the Ecuadorian Andes all year long, though the most idyllic trips occur during the dry season (June through September).