Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 6-day hiking Ecuador volcanoes adventure Accommodation for 5 nights in lodges, hostels, and haciendas based on double or triple occupancy For group tours, transportation from and to Quito’s meeting point at Dann Carlton Hotel located at República de El Salvador and Irlanda streets at 7am For private tours, pick-up in front of your hotel in Quito’s Urban Zone Meals indicated in the itinerary (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners) Water and snacks Black diamond hiking poles Fees for reserves and museums 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch, and Spanish Not included: Flights Airport transfers Meals not mentioned in the itinerary Drinks Accommodations before and after the trip Mules at Quilotoa on the way back to the top of the crater (optional) Extra and optional activities Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — mandatory

How fit do I need to be?

This adventure of hiking Ecuadorian volcanoes is rated moderate , which means that a good fitness level is required . Experience is not a prerequisite, but please keep in mind that trekking lasts 4 to 6 hours a day, covering between 11.2-14.4 km / 7-9 mi on every segment. The average daily elevation change will be 457 m / 1,500 ft. Maximum elevation is 2,934 m (9,262 ft) . Transport and support is always available in case someone wants to take a break or just wants to avoid the uphill. For more guided adventures in Ecuador, click here !

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag) Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Spare clothes for layering Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, lip balm, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Pocket money Passport Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this hiking Ecuador volcanoes adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 10 participants. The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family! Group tours with fixed departures are available, as well as private tours. Hiking in Ecuador can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors older than 12 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your hiking adventure of Ecuadorian volcanoes is Quito. To get there, most people fly into Quito Airport (UIO) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Quito. Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at the Dann Carlton Hotel, located at República de El Salvador and Irlanda streets at 7am, if you’re joining a group departure. If you’re going on a private tour , the guides will pick you up in front of your hotel in Quito’s Urban Zone. In both cases, your guide will provide more information before the adventure starts. Due to the fact that the adventure begins quite early on Day 1, it’s recommended that you arrive in Quito at least a day before the adventure starts.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

ANDES | ECUADOR

Hiking Adventure of the Ecuadorian Andes

5.00

Alpacas in front of the Chimborazo volcano

From $1,534 ()

Duration

6 days

Season

Year-round

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Accommodation
Reviews
Things to know

Ecuador’s Andes aren’t just mountains—they’re a masterpiece waiting to be explored. Over six days, we’ll hike through canyons, climb past glaciers, and stroll into villages where life is slower and the people are warmer than your favorite sweater. We’ll explore the towering Cotopaxi, the glacier-crowned Chimborazo, and the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, each offering its own slice of volcanic magic. Ever seen a crater lake that looks like a gemstone? How about hiking at altitudes where vicuñas, llama’s smaller relatives, roam free? This trip isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about living moments you’ll talk about for years. And with experienced guides leading the way, you’ll get the challenge, the views, and the stories—all wrapped up in one unforgettable adventure.

Adventure highlights

Into the crater

Stand at the edge of the Quilotoa Crater Lake, a marvel nestled in the Andes
Wild encounters

Spot vicuñas, llama’s smaller relatives, grazing on Chimborazo’s slopes
Amazonian edge

Hike to the swing at La Casa del Árbol for unbeatable views of the Amazon and Tungurahua volcano

Available itineraries

Download itineraries

Hiking Adventure of the Ecuadorian Andes (Group Tour)

Hiking Ecuador’s Andes is not a typical adventure—it’s an immersion into some of South America’s most stunning landscapes. Over six days, we’ll traverse canyons, volcanoes, and quaint mountain villages that feel untouched by time. Highlights include climbing Cotopaxi’s glacier-lined slopes, standing at the rim of the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, and exploring the lush beauty of Baños’ iconic waterfalls. Days are filled with epic hikes, wildlife encounters, and cultural moments, while nights bring well-earned rest in charming accommodations. If adventure is your language, the Andes are speaking loud and clear.

Regardless of the trip version you choose, the itinerary remains the same. Choose this version if you want to go on a group tour.

On Day 1, the meeting point is the Dann Carlton Hotel in Quito. At 8am, we’ll drive southeast of Quito to the captivating region of Sigchos, located in the southern part of Latacunga city. Our journey will lead us from Sigchos to Isinlivi, guiding us through the scenic Toachi Canyon. This region is rich in traditions, culture, and natural landscapes. Following an immersive experience of learning and exploration, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before proceeding to the lodge for further relaxation.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge or similar
Following breakfast, our day kicks off with a hike along dirt trails and narrow secondary roads. We’ll traverse through charming villages such as Isinlivi and Chugchilan. These quaint towns rely on agriculture and cattle farming, producing quinoa, potatoes, and corn, and raising horses, mules, chickens, and guinea pigs. Upon reaching the Toachi Canyon, we’ll have a picnic before ascending to Chugchilan.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 11.9 km (7.39 mi)
Accommodation: Hostal Mama Hilda or similar
Our adventure takes us to one of the most rewarding challenges of the trip. Starting at 8am, we’ll embark on a strenuous yet incredibly rewarding hike to the summit of Quilotoa Crater Lake. This mesmerizing turquoise gem, nestled in the Andes, offers breathtaking 360-degree views. The volcano holds sacred significance for local indigenous communities and serves as inspiration for countless art pieces. After soaking in the stunning vistas, we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch before heading to Riobamba for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 11.2 km (6.95 mi)
Accommodation: Andaluza Hacienda or similar
After breakfast, we’ll head to the Chimborazo Reserve, a habitat for thousands of vicuñas (smaller relatives of llamas) roaming the slopes of this majestic volcano. Known as the closest point to space from Earth’s core, Chimborazo’s summit makes it a geological marvel. While our hike will be short, it will challenge us as we reach nearly 17,000 ft (5,182 m). After the hike, we’ll enjoy lunch before continuing to Baños, a lively town perfect for unwinding with optional activities like salsa dancing.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 2.77 km (1.72 mi)
Accommodation: Alisamay Hotel or similar
Today, we’ll explore the lush Amazon Basin, starting with a scenic hike to Pailon del Diablo, a powerful waterfall cascading into a dramatic gorge. From its overhanging bridge, we’ll witness this natural wonder up close and from above. In the afternoon, we’ll visit La Casa del Árbol, where its famous swing offers stunning views of Baños and the Tungurahua volcano. For those seeking an extra thrill, optional zip-lining or shopping opportunities are available.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Alisamay Hotel or similar
On our final day, we’ll journey north to Cotopaxi National Park. Home to one of the highest active volcanoes on Earth, Cotopaxi’s iconic conical shape stands out against the Andean backdrop. After reaching the park, we’ll trek to the glacier base, nearly 17,000 ft (5,182 m) above sea level. Along the way, we may spot horses and bulls roaming the park’s vast landscapes. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Quito, wrapping up our unforgettable journey.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 3.15 km (1.95 mi)

Hiking Adventure of the Ecuadorian Andes (Private Tour)

Regardless of the trip version you choose, the itinerary remains the same. Choose this version if you want to go on a private tour.

On Day 1, the meeting point is your hotel in Quito Urban Zone. At 8am, we’ll drive southeast of Quito to the captivating region of Sigchos, located in the southern part of Latacunga city. Our journey will lead us from Sigchos to Isinlivi, guiding us through the scenic Toachi Canyon. This region is rich in traditions, culture, and natural landscapes. Following an immersive experience of learning and exploration, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch before proceeding to the lodge for further relaxation.

Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge or similar
Following breakfast, our day kicks off with a hike along dirt trails and narrow secondary roads. We’ll traverse through charming villages such as Isinlivi and Chugchilan. These quaint towns rely on agriculture and cattle farming, producing quinoa, potatoes, and corn, and raising horses, mules, chickens, and guinea pigs. Upon reaching the Toachi Canyon, we’ll have a picnic before ascending to Chugchilan.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 11.9 km (7.39 mi)
Accommodation: Hostal Mama Hilda or similar
Our adventure takes us to one of the most rewarding challenges of the trip. Starting at 8am, we’ll embark on a strenuous yet incredibly rewarding hike to the summit of Quilotoa Crater Lake. This mesmerizing turquoise gem, nestled in the Andes, offers breathtaking 360-degree views. The volcano holds sacred significance for local indigenous communities and serves as inspiration for countless art pieces. After soaking in the stunning vistas, we’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch before heading to Riobamba for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 11.2 km (6.95 mi)
Accommodation: Andaluza Hacienda or similar
After breakfast, we’ll head to the Chimborazo Reserve, a habitat for thousands of vicuñas (smaller relatives of llamas) roaming the slopes of this majestic volcano. Known as the closest point to space from Earth’s core, Chimborazo’s summit makes it a geological marvel. While our hike will be short, it will challenge us as we reach nearly 17,000 ft (5,182 m). After the hike, we’ll enjoy lunch before continuing to Baños, a lively town perfect for unwinding with optional activities like salsa dancing.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 2.77 km (1.72 mi)
Accommodation: Alisamay Hotel or similar
Today, we’ll explore the lush Amazon Basin, starting with a scenic hike to Pailon del Diablo, a powerful waterfall cascading into a dramatic gorge. From its overhanging bridge, we’ll witness this natural wonder up close and from above. In the afternoon, we’ll visit La Casa del Árbol, where its famous swing offers stunning views of Baños and the Tungurahua volcano. For those seeking an extra thrill, optional zip-lining or shopping opportunities are available.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Alisamay Hotel or similar
On our final day, we’ll journey north to Cotopaxi National Park. Home to one of the highest active volcanoes on Earth, Cotopaxi’s iconic conical shape stands out against the Andean backdrop. After reaching the park, we’ll trek to the glacier base, nearly 17,000 ft (5,182 m) above sea level. Along the way, we may spot horses and bulls roaming the park’s vast landscapes. In the afternoon, we’ll return to Quito, wrapping up our unforgettable journey.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 3.15 km (1.95 mi)

Hiking Adventure of the Ecuadorian Andes

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Rebecca Adventure Travel

Rebecca Adventure Travel works with highly skilled and knowledgeable local guides who are essential to providing immersive and unforgettable travel experiences. All of the guides have professional backgrounds in tourism, many of them holding degrees from recognized universities, which means they bring a deep understanding of the areas of operation. They are fluent in English and Spanish, and have several years of experience leading travelers through Ecuador, Galapagos, Peru, Colombia, and other destinations. The guides are not only experts in local culture, history, and wildlife, but are also known for their friendly and personable approach, making each traveler feel welcome and cared for throughout their journey.

Accommodation

Accommodation

On this hiking Ecuadorian volcanoes adventure, we’ll be staying at hand-picked lodges, hostels, and haciendas, including Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge, Hostal Mama Hilda, Andaluza Hacienda, Alisamay Hotel, or similar accommodations. Expect comfy places, clean rooms, and friendly staff. The accommodation is based on double or triple occupancy, which means you’ll be sharing a room with one or two other persons.

5.00(3 reviews)

G A

Ecuador has wonderful places, and Rebecca Adventure Travel proved to have the experience to create excellent packages to get to know those places. Traveling was made easy! The team is quick, polite, and trustworthy. Highly recommended.

Kevin Kelehan

Great agency that delivered perfect solutions in very uncertain times. This is an agency you can book tours with confidence the day you book your flights to Ecuador, if things change they will advise you of all the options and offer you a range of solutions at reasonable prices. The agency also offers a number of private tours using expert guides who will give you a real insight into how the country works.

Boris Guaita

Rebecca Adventure Travel is such an amazing agency! With them, you’re gonna have the adventure of a lifetime and to get to know some beautiful places in South America, that you didn’t even knew they existed. 100% recommended!

Show all reviews

G A

Kevin Kelehan

Boris Guaita

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 6-day hiking Ecuador volcanoes adventure
  - Accommodation for 5 nights in lodges, hostels, and haciendas based on double or triple occupancy
  - For group tours, transportation from and to Quito’s meeting point at Dann
  - Carlton Hotel located at República de El Salvador and Irlanda streets at 7am
  - For private tours, pick-up in front of your hotel in Quito’s Urban Zone
  - Meals indicated in the itinerary (5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners)
  - Water and snacks
  - Black diamond hiking poles
  - Fees for reserves and museums
  - 24/7 assistance in English, Dutch, and Spanish
Not included:
- - Flights
  - Airport transfers
  - Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  - Drinks
  - Accommodations before and after the trip
  - Mules at Quilotoa on the way back to the top of the crater (optional)
  - Extra and optional activities
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — mandatory
This adventure of hiking Ecuadorian volcanoes is rated moderate, which means that a good fitness level is required. Experience is not a prerequisite, but please keep in mind that trekking lasts 4 to 6 hours a day, covering between 11.2-14.4 km / 7-9 mi on every segment.

The average daily elevation change will be 457 m / 1,500 ft. Maximum elevation is 2,934 m (9,262 ft). Transport and support is always available in case someone wants to take a break or just wants to avoid the uphill.

For more guided adventures in Ecuador, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, lip balm, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Pocket money
  - Passport
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this hiking Ecuador volcanoes adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 2 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 10 participants.
  - The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to hike with friends and family! Group tours with fixed departures are available, as well as private tours.
Hiking in Ecuador can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors older than 12 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your hiking adventure of Ecuadorian volcanoes is Quito. To get there, most people fly into Quito Airport (UIO). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Quito.

Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at the Dann Carlton Hotel, located at República de El Salvador and Irlanda streets at 7am, if you’re joining a group departure.

If you’re going on a private tour, the guides will pick you up in front of your hotel in Quito’s Urban Zone.

In both cases, your guide will provide more information before the adventure starts.

Due to the fact that the adventure begins quite early on Day 1, it’s recommended that you arrive in Quito at least a day before the adventure starts.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.