Ecuador 2027 Planning Meeting #1– Mount Chimborazo & Backpacking Adventure
Details
After a successful Cotopaxi expedition, I plan to return to Ecuador to climb Mount Chimborazo (20,548 ft)—the highest mountain in Ecuador and, because of Earth's equatorial bulge, the closest point on Earth to the sun.
This trip isn't just for climbers, though.
We'll have two groups organized through Ecuador Ecoadventures
I will also share some videos and photos from my prior trips.
### 🧗 Climbing Group
The climbing group will attempt Mount Chimborazo, one of the world's classic high-altitude mountaineering objectives.
Please note: This climb requires previous mountaineering experience. Participants should be comfortable using crampons and an ice axe, and have experience traveling on snow and steep alpine terrain, and experience with high altitude, e.g, Mt Whitney.
### 🥾 Backpacking & Hiking Group
If climbing isn't your thing, Ecuador offers some of the best hiking and backpacking in South America.
Quilotoa Loop
- A spectacular 3–4 day trek through remote Andean villages, deep canyons, traditional farms, and scenic ridges.
- The hike finishes at the breathtaking emerald waters of Quilotoa Crater Lake.
Condor Trek
- A challenging 57 km (35-mile) backcountry route crossing high mountain passes, volcanic landscapes, and remote indigenous communities.
- Featured on National Geographic's adventure bucket lists, the trek passes through three protected areas:
- Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve
- Antisana Ecological Reserve
- Cotopaxi National Park
Additional day hikes and sightseeing opportunities can also be planned for those who prefer a less strenuous adventure.
## Zoom Planning Meeting
Whether you're interested in climbing, backpacking, or simply exploring Ecuador, this meeting is for you.
We'll begin planning a 10/11-day adventure with proposed travel dates Jan/Feb : Topics will include:
- Trip itinerary
- Estimated costs
- Logistics
- Gear recommendations
- Physical preparation
- Questions and discussion
I'll also share photos and videos from my previous Ecuador trips, including the Cotopaxi climb, to give everyone a better idea of what to expect and what makes Ecuador such an incredible destination for outdoor adventure.
Ecuador is a beautiful, affordable country with incredible mountains, volcanoes, cloud forests, and welcoming people. It offers outstanding hiking, backpacking, and world-class mountaineering.
I've visited Ecuador twice already, and I'd go back anytime. I'm excited to start planning another unforgettable adventure with anyone interested in joining!
### Extend Your Adventure
If you're planning a longer vacation, consider adding a few extra days to visit the Galápagos Islands. Famous for their unique wildlife and pristine landscapes, the islands offer unforgettable opportunities to see giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, sea lions, and other species found nowhere else on Earth. Whether you're interested in snorkeling, hiking, wildlife photography, or simply experiencing one of the world's most remarkable ecosystems, the Galápagos make an incredible extension to an Ecuador adventure. I went in 2017 and can share some tips.
