Ecuador Private Journey

Hikes and Cultural Exploration from the Cloud Forest to the High Andes

Trip Level

This trip is rated Level 3, Moderate. Cultural explorations and day hikes are the focus of the trip, with hotel, hacienda, and lodge accommodations throughout. Much of the trip takes place at higher altitudes, ranging from 9,500 feet at Otavalo to over 15,000 feet in Cotopaxi National Park. Overland travel is by van. There are five days with optional hikes of about 2-4 hours each. For your enjoyment of the trip, we recommend you make a special effort to be in very good physical condition, and ready to hike on varied terrain (rock and sand), driving on mountain roads that can be rugged, and the hikes will often be cross country, not on developed trails. Please note that your Trip Leader may make adjustments to the itinerary and hiking routes, depending on local weather and trail conditions.

Weather

Because of Ecuador’s location on the equator, the weather patterns don’t change very much during the year. Altitudes are very much the determining factor in the temperatures. In Quito, temperatures are pleasant and spring-like much of the year, with highs around 75°F and lows around 50°F. The central highlands of Ecuador are crossed by the Andes, with snow line starting at altitudes of about 16,500 feet. Expect the daily high to be around 75°F. Nights and mornings are cold, dropping down to 50°F or even lower. In the cloud forest at Mashpi, expect daytime highs of around 80°F and much cooler evenings, possibly as low as the mid-50s, and higher humidity.

The summer season is June through September, and you will enjoy great views of the volcanoes and mountains. The rainy season is generally February-April, and while temperatures are comfortable, it is not an optimum time for hiking.

Choosing the Right Trip

We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please contact us.

References

We are proud to have an exceptionally high rate of repeat travelers. For more information, we would be happy to put you in touch with a client who has traveled with us.