Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Ecuador
Ecuadorian trekking is wild – Cotopaxi's snowy summit, Quilotoa's turquoise crater lake, Amazon jungle lodges near Tena, maybe Galapagos trails if you're lucky. Andean peaks through Baños' waterfalls and cloud forests shift landscapes dramatically. You're going from Pacific coast through the Avenue of Volcanoes to Amazon basin, basically packing beaches, mountains, and jungle into this tiny equator-straddling country.
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we would just like to thank you guys (Guidecuador) for the great service received and the brilliant excursions. We really enjoyed our short breaks and feel that we saw so much more by taking your Ecuador Trip. We were collected each day from our hotels and dropped off at the end of each hike. The driver Luis and Marcelo our guide, were informative and helpful. We had a great time in your beautiful country.
Ecuador Hiking: Trekking Through Volcanoes, Culture & Andean Trails in 11 DaysOverall good, the guide was sweet but lacked passion and enthusiasm, very soft spoken
Galapagos Walking AdventureThis was a great trip with Jorge as our guide. The places we stayed at were quite nice and unique. The food was delicious. The hikes and the views were amazing although sometimes a challenge ( for me) . I would definitely book with Adventure Journeys again.
Ecuador Trekking The Avenue of Volcanoes
10 best Hiking & Trekking Ecuador tour packages
Compiled by
NadineEcuador travel expert at TourRadar
- Ecuador Hiking: Trekking Through Volcanoes, Culture & Andean Trails in 11 Days
- Ecuador Cloud Forest: Pululahua to Maquipucuna Trek
- 2 Day Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Exploration - Shared Group
- Chimborazo Prince Challenge (Climbing)
- Galapagos Walking Adventure
- Cotopaxi Llama Express Ecuador
- 2-Day Private Tour Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Lagoon all-inclusive
- Avenue of the Volcanoes Trek - 8 days
- Hiking Day Trip to Sierra Negra Volcano Galapagos
- Ecuador Climbing Expedition: Cotopaxi & Cayambe 9 Days
Ecuador Hiking: Trekking Through Volcanoes, Culture & Andean Trails in 11 Days
“We really enjoyed our short breaks and feel that we saw so much more by taking your Ecuador Trip.”
Carter, traveled in July
Trek Guagua Pichincha Volcano at 15,600 feet for Andes views, then drop into Pululahua crater's Geobotanical Reserve to see native Andean Forest plants. An 8-mile path circles Cuicocha Lake in Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve, where condors glide near volcanic cliffs and the high-altitude air feels crisp.
Duration 11 days Destinations Quito, Otavalo, Cuicocha Lake, Cotacachi, Papallacta, Cotopaxi National Park, Zumbagua, Quilotoa, Hacienda Tigua Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 233 mi Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
- US$2,490
The trails wind 8 miles from Pululahua's rim (11,550 ft) through cloud forest to Maquipucuna Lodge (4,500 ft). Historic Culuncos paths lead to Santa Lucia Reserve's network of birding trails with expert guides.
Duration 5 days Destinations Quito, Calacali, Hacienda Yunguilla, Nanegalito Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 61 mi Operator GUIDEcuador Travel From
- US$1,599
The trails of Ecuador await: climb to 4,864m at Cotopaxi's Padre Rivas Refuge and circle Quilotoa's emerald crater. Mountain biking descends Cotopaxi's slopes before venturing into the dramatic Toachi Canyon.
Duration 2 days Destinations Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Machachi, Quilotoa Age Range Ages 12+ Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 142 mi Operator Responsible Travel South America From
- US$225
Chimborazo Prince Challenge (Climbing)
“Really nice activities and very professional people. I highly recommend them.”
AndresAlmeida, traveled in October
High-altitude trekking unfolds from Hosteria PapaGayo base (3,200m). Ascend through Pasochoa's pristine Andean forest (4,199m), tackle Illinizas Norte's rocky terrain, and summit Cotopaxi (5,897m) and Chimborazo (6,268m) using specialized glacier equipment.
Duration 10 days Destinations Machachi, Pasochoa Volcano, Ilinizas National Park, Cotopaxi Volcano, Chimborazo Volcano Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Distance 221 mi Operator Gulliver Expeditions From
- US$1,960
Galapagos Walking Adventure
“Saw almost everything we wanted to, including a group of Orcas on our personal boat. Great snorkelling.”
Christopher, traveled in February
Sierra Negra's volcanic rim and pristine beaches highlight this Ecuadorian adventure. Paths wind through Volcan Chico's lava fields to El Junco Lake, while the historic Wall of Tears on Isabela Island reveals island history from comfortable local bases.
Duration 14 days Destinations Quito, San Cristóbal Island, Leon Dormido, Floreana Island, Isabela Island, Puerto Villamil, Las Tintoreras Islet, Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora, Bartolomé IslandSee all destinations Age Range Ages 16+ Distance 1944 mi Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $8,923
5% Off- US$8,490
Duration 7 days Destinations Machachi, Pasochoa Volcano, Ilinizas National Park, Cotopaxi National Park, Cotopaxi Volcano Age Range Ages 12+ Operated in English, Spanish Distance 96 mi Operator Gulliver Expeditions From
5% Off- US$805
Duration 2 days Destinations Quito, Cotopaxi National Park, Pujili, Quilotoa, Saquisili Age Range Ages 8+ Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 93 mi Operator Latin Adventures From
5% Off- US$389
What our customers ask about Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Ecuador
What is the best time of year for hiking in Ecuador's different regions?
Hiking conditions in Ecuador change across its diverse regions. The Andean highlands including Cotopaxi National Park see their best weather from June to September when skies are clear and conditions are stable. The Amazon welcomes hikers year-round but July through September offers drier conditions. During a June visit one TourRadar traveler noted "We started with fantastic weather allowing for clear skies in Quilotoa." The Mindo cloud forests show their best side from December to May when plant life flourishes. Popular spots like Cotopaxi welcome hikers throughout the year though afternoon rain showers are common.
What type of accommodation can I expect on multi-day hiking tours in Ecuador?
Ecuador's hiking accommodations blend historic charm with practical comfort. Near Cotopaxi travelers rest at places like Hacienda El Tambo a converted Inca rest stop at 12150 feet with cozy beds and warming fireplaces. Amazon stays feature eco-focused properties like Napo Wildlife Center equipped with fans and insect protection. A TourRadar traveler shared "Two of the B&Bs were standouts for their birdwatching and uniquely beautiful accommodations while others were clean and adequate." Most extended treks mix traditional haciendas with mountain lodges using hotels like Dann Carlton Quito as starting points.
How physically demanding are hiking tours in Ecuador's highlands?
High-altitude terrain makes Ecuador's highland hikes notably challenging. Cotopaxi area treks often mean 6-7 hours of walking daily at 12000-15000 feet covering up to 15 miles. Paths through lower regions like the Mindo cloud forest offer gentler walks. According to one TourRadar traveler "The Rumiñahui Volcano trek takes about 6 hours round trip and requires good fitness but the views are worth the effort." Tour groups typically spend 2-3 days getting used to Quito's elevation (9350 feet) before tackling higher trails.
How do guided hiking tours in Ecuador typically structure their days?
Ecuador's guided hikes follow reliable daily patterns. Most groups start their day between 6-7 AM with breakfast at locations like Hacienda El Porvenir before heading out. One TourRadar traveler noted "Our guide Carolina was very knowledgeable and engaging - we had structured hiking days with plenty of stops for wildlife viewing and photography." Walking usually fills 5-7 hours with regular breaks and trail lunches. Evenings at places like Tambopaxi often include talks about local culture followed by dinner around 7 PM.
How much hiking experience is needed for Ecuador's mountain trails?
Trail requirements in Ecuador fit various skill levels. Newcomers can explore the Amazon's Matapalo Trail or Mindo's forests while Cotopaxi and Chimborazo need prior hiking practice and good fitness. A TourRadar traveler shared "The Quilotoa trek was challenging but manageable with basic fitness - we really enjoyed having a local guide explain the terrain." Tours range from easy walks around Cuicocha Lake to demanding multi-day journeys like the Abraspungo Valley which covers up to 15 miles daily at high elevations.
How do I prepare for high-altitude hikes in Ecuador?
Success on Ecuador's high trails starts with proper preparation. Begin cardio training 2-3 months before traveling and practice uphill hiking. Plan 2-3 days in Quito (2850m) staying at places like Wyndham La Quinta to adjust to the altitude before attempting higher elevations. One TourRadar traveler suggests "Gaiters are useful for the volcano trek as it can be muddy in sections and make sure to stay hydrated to avoid altitude effects."