About the ecuador andean adventure
At a glance...
Country: Ecuador
Duration: 8 days/7 nights
Activity: Trekking and sightseeing
Travel style: Guided
Difficulty grade: Challenging (High altitude, substantial ascents)
Comfort: 3*-4* hotels, exquisite mountain lodges
Embark on an unforgettable journey with our Ecuador Andean Adventure, an 8-day, 7-night exploration of Ecuador’s high-altitude landscapes and vibrant cultures. This adventure begins in the historic city of Quito, where you’ll immerse yourself in its rich colonial architecture and bustling local markets. You’ll visit indigenous Andean animal markets and explore the famous Tigua art gallery, where you will enjoy beautiful and unique paintings by renowned artist Julio Toaquiza Tigasi and his family.
The highlight of your journey will be trekking to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in South America. Hike the Quilotoa Loop to the stunning crater of the same name, a volcanic lake famed for its mesmerizing turquoise waters, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes. Then, trek up the Chimborazo volcano, the closest point on Earth to the sun, where the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape provide a truly unforgettable experience. Your adventure concludes with a hike to the majestic Cotopaxi volcano, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, offering panoramic views (and altitudes) that will leave you breathless.
No adventure is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, and Ecuadorian food is sure to delight your taste buds. Savor traditional dishes such as locro de papa, a hearty potato soup, and llapingachos, delicious potato patties filled with cheese. Enjoy fresh seafood ceviche from the coast and sample succulent roasted cuy (yep, it’s guinea pig), a delicacy in the Andean region. Whether you’re dining in a local market or a quaint Andean village, the flavors of Ecuador will add an unforgettable culinary dimension to your journey.
Our Ecuador Andean Adventure promises an unique blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and exhilarating trekking. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, this itinerary represents an unusual opportunity to connect with the spirit of the Andes. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime.
NOTE: An optional Galápagos Islands extension will be available and added to this page soon.
Check out the quick invitation video below from Hobnail Ecuador director Christian Valencia.
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Ecuador Andean Adventure
Click on the preferred date to register:
Registration deadline is 60 days prior to the start of the trek.
Andean Adventure Details
Trek off the beaten path
Our guides will take you on Andean trails largely unknown by other trekkers. No traffic jams here!
Enjoy local cuisine
Try the best of Ecuadorian and Andean eats prepared in the tradition of the region.
Marvel at the “Avenue of Volcanoes”
This 200-mile stretch is flanked by eight dizzyingly-high volcanic mountains striding south of Quito down the Andean spine.
Experience altitudes up to 17K feet
After slow acclimatizing along the Quilotoa Loop and crater, you’ll hike to 17K feet on the Cotopaxi and Chimborazo volcanoes.
Stay at incredible, unique lodges
Relax after challenging days of hiking in unique, beautiful, and historic lodges like Llullullama and Hosteria Andaluzia. (They will blow your mind.)
Immerse yourself into the warm Andean culture
Whether at indigenous livestock markets, highland farms, or village art galleries, you will take in a welcoming culture unlike anyplace in the world.
Explore the historic city of Quito
Take some time to peruse the historic architecture, local restaurants, and vibrant shopping of this amazing city.
- Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
- Surprise gift during the trek
- Custom Hobnail mobile app
- Lots of freebies
- Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a private WhatsApp group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
- All airport transfers
- 7 nights accommodations in 3* and 4* hotels and mountain lodges (double occupancy unless single occupancy is selected at time of registration)
- All meals on the trek as specified in the itinerary
- Pre-trek briefing to go over final details
- All national park fees, entrance fees, taxes, and permits
- Local, English-speaking leader and guide(s) with a professional background (degree in guiding) from the Tourism University, many years of experience, International First Aid certifications, and awesome personalities
- Plenty of clean drinking water
- Luggage transport (you carry only a daypack each day)
- Water, various juices, coffee, celebratory Indigenous beverages at meals and breaks
- Private ground transportation throughout the trip
- The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime
- Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
- International flights
- Meals not included on the itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages and non-scheduled drinks unless on the itinerary
- Entry fees for attractions and exhibits not included on the itinerary
- Spa services
- Tips for drivers, guide(s), etc. (we’ll give you guidance on this)
- Spending money, including for souvenirs
- Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- All expenses associated with nonscheduled departure or transportation
OK, here’s where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.
There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space — including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend — so when you’re ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.
We consider our treks to be adventures, not vacations. We’re not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all! Don’t get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s what we ask of you:
- You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
- You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesn’t mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure.
- You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
- If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
- When on trek, you FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF YOUR GUIDE. His or her only concern is helping you achieve your goal safely and in good health, but this won’t happen unless you follow their advice. This includes – but is not limited to – food recommendations, speed of pace, when to sleep and when not to, when to walk and when to rest, when to turn around due to illness, etc.
- When on trek, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.
All of these things may seem like common sense — and they are — but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnail’s goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.
A few days after registering for a trek (with a deposit of at least $1,400), we’ll give you a quick call to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you use WhatsApp, we’ll add you to a group with your fellow trekkers so that you may interact with them, and possibly your guide, before departure. You’ll be able to post questions in the group anytime you’d like, talk about the cool gear you’re planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.
Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Box from us. It contains stuff that you can use during training as well as on the trek itself, and some other just fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.
You’ll also receive a login to our Hobnail app, which is full of great information including a day-by-day schedule, nearby points of interest, beautiful photography, and yet another way to contact us – through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will load your flights and other more specific information into the app so you’ll feel even more secure in knowing where you’ll be staying and even how to get around the airports you’ll travel through.
The closer you get to your trek, the more you’ll hear from us — but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.
What happens if my trek is not confirmed?
If the minimum number for the trek you booked is not reached before the 60-day booking deadline, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
Our Mobile App
When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, travel insurance docs, and COVID info, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff.
TREK ITINERARY
Day 1: Welcome to Ecuador and Quito
Upon your arrival at the airport in Quito, you will be greeted by our friendly guide who will transfer you to your hotel. Quito is the capital of Ecuador and is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city is located in the Andes Mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop for your stay. At around 6 pm, you will attend a briefing where you will receive extra important information about your trekking tour.
Maximum elevation: 9,000 feet
Lodging: Hotel in Quito
Day 2: City Tour Quito and Drive to Isinlivi
After breakfast, we will embark on a city tour of Quito to explore its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and fascinating history. We will visit landmarks such as the Plaza de la Independencia, La Compañia, the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and the San Francisco Square. While touring, we will learn about the city’s history and its significance as a cultural and political hub in Ecuador.
After a traditional lunch, we will drive down the Pan-American Highway southwest of Quito to Isinlivi, a charming village nestled high in the Andes Mountains. This area is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. As we travel, your guide will discuss the different ecosystems found in the region, including the high-altitude páramo and cloud forests. You will also learn about the famous “Avenue of The Volcanoes.”
At the beautiful and unique Llullullama Mountain Lodge, you will enjoy a homemade dinner prepared with local products.
Maximum elevation: 9,000 feet
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Lodging: Llullullama Mountain Lodge
Day 3: Trek to local Indigenous market, acclimatization in Isinlivi
Today we will start with an early breakfast followed by a morning trek to an Indigenous market. Guantualo market is a bustling hub of local culture where you will experience the farming and trade traditions of the Andean people. The Indigenous residents of this area bring their fruits, vegetables, and animals — from guinea pigs and poultry to llamas and cattle — to the market. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Andean culture as you interact with the local community.
Later we will return to Isinlivi for a yummy lunch, and spend the rest of the day acclimatizing at the lodge, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes while enjoying a cold beer or glass of local wine.
Maximum elevation: 9,000 feet
Trekking distance: 4 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Lodging: Llullullama Mountain Lodge
Day 4: Trek from Isinlivi to Chugchilan with a local farm visit
After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic trek from Isinlivi to Chugchilan. This trek winds through incredible, up-and-down landscapes of lush bottomland and steep pastures and mountainsides.
Along the way, we’ll stop at a local farm where you can experience the authentic rural lifestyle of the Andes. Learn about traditional farming practices and help feed the animals. The farmer will likely have guinea pigs, ducks, chickens, sheep, and more. This visit will provide you with insight into the history and agricultural traditions of the region in addition to a nice little break from hiking.
After saying goodbye to the farm, we continue our journey. As you trek, marvel at the stunning views of the naturally terraced Toachi Canyon, a product of the pyroclastic flows from the eruption of the Quilotoa volcano. (The last eruption happened around 1280.)
For lunch, enjoy a yummy picnic by the river where we’ll have time to relax and enjoy conversation over some excellent local foods. Afterward, properly fueled up and ready, we will tackle a challenging switchback ascent up a 1,000-plus-foot mountainside that offers incredible views and photo opportunities. The day’s trek will end at Chugchilan with a congratulatory Canelazo (spiced cinnamon and rum drink) at the cozy Mama Hilda Mountain Lodge.
Maximum elevation: 10,000 feet
Trekking Distance: 8 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Lodging: Mama Hilda Mountain Lodge
Day 5: Quilotoa Volcano and Tigua Art Gallery visit
Today is an amazing day – get ready!
We’ll knock half a day off the standard Quilotoa Loop trek by driving to Quilotoa Volcano, a breathtaking caldera filled with a stunning turquoise lake. This natural wonder is a result of a volcanic eruption and offers a unique opportunity to witness the power of geological forces.
Instead of hiking up the side of the volcano, we will opt to hike the entire, 6-mile perimeter of the rim, taking in the incredible views of the crater and the surrounding landscapes. (On clear days, we’ll see many other volcanoes in the distance.) Although this trek has easy sections of a relatively level, sandy trail, there are also challenging areas of rocky ascents and descents that make this hike a unique, bucket-list-worthy experience.
Later, we’ll continue by van to Tigua, where we’ll visit an art gallery showcasing beautiful paintings by renowned local artist Julio Toaquiza Tigasi and his talented family, most of whom will likely be present. This visit will provide insight into the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Quilotoa area.
In the late afternoon, we will drive to La Andaluza, a picturesque lodge nestled on the southeastern slopes of the Chimborazo volcano. The history of this amazing venue is only matched by its architectural beauty. After a wonderful dinner, choose to turn in early or grab a sauna or massage in the lodge’s otherworldly wellness spa. (Spa services are on your own.)
Maximum Elevation: 12,800 feet
Trekking Distance: 6 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: La Andaluza Hacienda
Day 6: Chimborazo Reserve and hike to Condor Lagoon
After a hearty breakfast, we will drive to the Chimborazo Reserve, home to the majestic Chimborazo, the highest peak in Ecuador. At 20,702 feet above sea level, this volcano is considered the highest point on Earth as measured from the center of the planet — over 7,000 feet higher than Mount Everest!
Embark on a thrilling trek to the Condor Lagoon, a challenging uphill climb that will end at the highest elevation of the whole trip — nearly 17,000 feet! Depending on the time of the year the trail can be covered in snow.
The Reserve is known for its diverse ecosystems, including high-altitude grasslands and paramo (the natural habitat of vicuñas — small, camelids commonly seen along the road). Learn from your guide about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this environment and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation.
In the afternoon after lunch, we will return to La Andaluza for some well-deserved relaxation at the spa. Take the time to rejuvenate and enjoy the incredible experiences that this spa offers. (Spa services are on your own.)
Maximum Elevation: 16,800 feet
Trekking Distance: 1.7 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hotel: La Andaluza Hacienda
Day 7: Cotopaxi Reserve and glaciers trek
After breakfast, we will drive north to the Cotopaxi Reserve, home of the highest active volcano in Ecuador. With a similar elevation to Kilimanjaro, this snow-covered peak has the perfect conical shape and is an iconic feature of the country.
Similar to the Chimborazo trek, the Cotopaxi trail will take us first to the basecamp, from which we will continue to the incredible glaciers. Yet another bucket-list experience!
In the afternoon, we will drive back to Quito, where you will have a unique beer-tasting experience and enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating the completion of an unforgettable trekking adventure. Reflect on the history and cultural significance of Quito as you savor local cuisine and beverages.
Maximum Elevation: 16.800 feet
Trekking Distance: 2 miles
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Lodging: Hotel in Quito
Day 8: Departure
On your final day, we will transfer you to the airport for your departure. Take with you the memories of the breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, rich history, and vibrant flora and fauna that you encountered during your 8-day trekking tour in Ecuador. We hope to see you back soon!
Meals included: Breakfast
GENERAL INFORMATION
How is Ecuador different from its neighbors?
Ecuador stands out from its neighboring countries with its extraordinary geographic diversity and rich cultural tapestry. While countries like Peru and Colombia are renowned for their historical sites and vibrant cultures, Ecuador offers a unique blend of coastal, Andean, and Amazonian environments all within a compact area, making it one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. This diversity is mirrored in its culture, which combines Indigenous traditions with Spanish colonial influences, creating a distinct heritage. Additionally, Ecuador is home to the Galápagos Islands, a natural wonder that offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, setting it apart from its regional counterparts.
About Ecuador's Galapagos Islands
The Galápagos Islands are a global treasure trove of biodiversity, renowned for their unique and diverse wildlife. Located off the Pacific coast of Ecuador, these volcanic islands are home to species found nowhere else on Earth, such as the iconic Galápagos tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. The islands’ isolation and varied ecosystems, ranging from arid deserts to lush highlands, have fostered an extraordinary range of plant and animal life. This rich biodiversity was famously studied by Charles Darwin, contributing to his theory of evolution by natural selection. Today, the Galápagos Islands remain a living laboratory of evolutionary biology, attracting scientists and nature enthusiasts from around the world.
Ecuador's adoption of u.S. currency
In 2000, Ecuador made a significant economic shift by adopting the U.S. dollar as its official currency, a move known as dollarization. This decision was made in response to a severe financial crisis marked by hyperinflation and the collapse of the national currency, the sucre. By adopting the U.S. dollar, Ecuador aimed to stabilize its economy, curb inflation, and restore investor confidence. While dollarization brought about greater monetary stability and reduced inflation rates, it also meant that Ecuador lost control over its monetary policy, relying instead on the fiscal and economic decisions of the United States. Despite these challenges, dollarization has been largely credited with helping to stabilize Ecuador’s economy in the years following its adoption. From a travel perspective, it provides even more convenience and reason for Americans to visit this incredibly beautiful and welcoming country.
Ecuador Andean Adventure
Click on the preferred date to register:
Registration deadline is 60 days prior to the start of the trek.
