Ecuador hiking can be quite challenging, as despite being one of the smallest countries in South America, Ecuador offers a surprising number of excellent climbing and hiking options. The high peaks of the Andes in Ecuador are located along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, a fertile valley located outside Quito. Ecuador adventure hiking can take the shape of a simple walk through the jungle or a steep climb up the side of a glacier. Whatever type of Ecuador adventure hiking suits your interests, you will find it in Ecuador.

Ecuador adventure hiking for the novice hiker is abundant. One of the most popular places for a day trip is the Trek de Condor, which passes by the Antisana, Sincholagua and Cotopaxi volcanoes and offers excellent views of all three. The Ingapirca trek is another popular route for a more casual hike. The Ingapirca trek takes hikers along an ancient Incan trail that leads to one of the most important Incan ruin sites in the world. Ecuador hiking through the foothills of the Andes offers stunning views without having to hike for days. Located about a day's drive from Quito, many of these Ecuador hiking spots are incredibly popular and quite beautiful.

Longer Ecuador hiking trips are also spread throughout this region for travelers looking to spend more time on the trails. Many Andes-to-Amazon trails provide excellent opportunities for hikers to see a great deal of flora and fauna in a short span of land. Beginning in the Andes, dramatic changes in the plants and animals will continue to change as travelers make their descent toward the Amazon. Some of the more popular of these hikes include the Oyacachi, Atillo, and Saraguro trails. There are a wide number of options since the trails are used often by locals.

Ecuador Map

For the more advanced hikers looking for mountain climbing in Ecuador, there are still plenty of options. Four famous glacial peaks are found in Ecuador and offer those climbing Ecuador some great choices. Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Tungurhahua make up the four highest peaks for mountain climbing in Ecuador. Main routes are often traversed and generally obvious to an experienced climber, but travelers should consider getting a climbing guide if this is their first Ecuador hiking vacation or climbing experience. Mountain climbing in Ecuador is still a relatively new idea, and climbers will be pleased to note that there are still plenty of opportunities to be the first person to climb up a new route.

In addition to considering your safety and abilities, it is also a good idea to be prepared for any type of weather. Ecuador is famous for its unpredictable weather, and the skies will often change from clear to rain on any given day. Bring appropriate gear and be prepared for rain regardless of what the weather looks like on the initial outset.

So, whether you choose to pack a picnic and head out for hike through the jungle, or strap on your climbing gear and make your way to the Andes, and Ecuador hiking vacation is sure to please any nature lover.