15 Hidden Ecuador Hiking Trails Most Tourists Never Find (2025)

Standing at 20,700 feet, Ecuador’s hiking gem Chimborazo holds an amazing secret.  Its peak ranks as Earth’s closest point to the sun, a result of our planet’s equatorial bulge.

Tourists typically head to spots like the Avenue of Volcanoes, drawn by its 100-kilometer stretch of volcanic scenery.  Yet Ecuador’s real hiking treasures stay hidden from regular travelers.   The country has countless unexplored trails beyond the prominent Quilotoa Loop’s 25-mile circuit and Cotopaxi’s impressive 19,347-foot peak.

Adventure seekers can explore the high-altitude splendor of Cajas National Park with its hundreds of pristine lakes.  The remote paths of the Condor Trek stretch 31.5 miles through raw wilderness.  These lesser-known trails are a great way to get authentic experiences.  This piece highlights 15 hidden pathways that reveal the country’s best-kept secrets for hiking enthusiasts who want real adventures away from tourist crowds.

Hidden Trail to El Angel Ecological Reserve

El Angel Ecological Reserve sprawls across 40,873 acres of untouched high-altitude terrain in northern Ecuador.  This hidden gem rests between 11,154 and 13,779 feet above sea level and offers some of Ecuador’s most secluded hiking spots.

Trail Overview and Location

The reserve sits just three hours from Quito and has well-maintained trails that include the scenic one-mile Laguna de Valedora loop.  In fact, the main path has graveled sections and sturdy stairways with handrails that make it easy for most hikers to explore.  The trail network links to several mirador gazebos and leads to pristine lakeshore areas.

Unique High-Altitude Moorland Ecosystem

This remarkable páramo ecosystem serves as a natural water source for millions.  The moorland works like a giant sponge that traps and releases water throughout the year.  You’ll find three of the world’s four species of frailejón plants here, which can reach heights of 23 feet.  These amazing plants have large hairy leaves that help them survive in extreme cold.

Best Time to Visit

The dry months from June to October offer the best hiking conditions.  Visitors can expect:

• Average temperatures between 7-11°C (44-52°F)
• Temperature ranges from 0-18°C (32-64°F)
• Yearly rainfall between 1,000 to 2,500mm

Local Guide Requirements

Ecuador’s law sets specific criteria for licensed guides. Local guides must have a high school diploma and should have lived in the area for three years. National guides need university-level tourism education, intermediate foreign language skills, and 30 hours of first aid training.

Secret Path Through Podocarpus Cloud Forest

Podocarpus National Park lies in Ecuador’s southern region and spans across 146,280 hectares of pristine wilderness.  You’ll find some of America’s most diverse botanical gardens along the park’s cloud forest trails, which create an extraordinary hiking experience.

Trail Description

The park welcomes visitors through two main entrances – Cajanuma and Bombuscaro sectors.  At elevations between 2,900 and 3,500 meters, Cajanuma trails meander through elfin forest with three distinct hiking options.  The Cloud Forest Trail extends 700 meters around mountain slopes.  The shorter Oso de Anteojos trail (400m) lets you observe the forest’s unique ecosystem up close.

Endemic Wildlife Spotting

This remarkable forest is home to 68 species of mammals.  The park’s endangered residents include the mountain tapir, spectacled bear, northern pudu and jaguar.  Bird watchers will be thrilled to spot any of the 560 registered species that make up 40% of Ecuador’s total bird population.  The forest’s rich biodiversity also includes 260 butterfly species and 1,200 moth varieties.

Hiking Difficulty Level

Trails suit different skill levels with temperatures ranging from 12°C at high elevations to 18°C in lower regions.  You’ll just need good mobility and health to complete these hikes, which typically take 4-6 hours.  First-time trekkers should adjust to the altitude before trying longer routes.

Recommended Equipment

Here’s the essential gear you’ll need for cloud forest hiking:

• Waterproof hiking boots for muddy conditions
• Layered clothing for varying temperatures
• Rain gear for unexpected showers
• High-energy snacks and water
• First-aid supplies

The east sees rain from March to July, while the western section experiences rainfall from October to December.  The park opens daily from 8:00 to 17:00.

The Lost Inca Trail of Oyacachi

The ancient trail to Oyacachi, dating back to the 15th century, is evidence of Ecuador’s rich indigenous heritage.  This path follows the Kayambi people who fled from the Inca empire around 1492.

Historical Significance

The Oyacachi settlement first appeared in 1580 near the lower basin of the Oyacachi River.  Early colonial administrators knew about this route but rarely ventured through these páramos.  They called them ‘paths to death’ because of their steep cliffs and constant rain.

Trail Navigation

The trek covers 24 miles through a variety of terrains.  The path runs on ancient cobblestone roads like Peru’s Machu Picchu trail and cuts through Reserva Ecologia Cayambe-Coca’s heart.  Hikers must cross two major rivers – Río Cedro and Río Santa María.

Indigenous Community Encounters

Today, 160 families make up the Oyacachi community and keep their cultural traditions alive.  They protect their Kichwa language through community rules.  The community’s artisan association gives visitors a chance to learn about their ancestral alderwood carving techniques.

Safety Considerations

A safe hiking experience needs:

• A local guide (USD 25 per day)
• Mules to carry gear (USD 15 daily)
• Proper hiking equipment and rain gear
• Permits from the Ministerio de Ambiente control station

Local guides play a vital role in safe navigation through this historic route.  Heavy rainfall occurs between November and April, so proper preparation matters.

Learn about the best beaches in Ecuador.

Unexplored Routes in Sangay National Park

Sangay National Park sprawls across 5,177 square kilometers of pristine wilderness in Ecuador’s central Andes.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers elevations from 900 to 5,319 meters above sea level.

Trail Access Points

Remote dirt roads connect the park’s main entry points to ranger stations.  Most visitors reach the park through the Guamote-Macas road that cuts from sierra to Oriente.  International visitors pay an entrance fee of USD 10.00 that remains valid for two weeks in all sectors.

Volcanic Landscapes

Three remarkable volcanoes dominate the park’s terrain.  The temperamental Volcán Sangay towers at 5,230 meters and stands as one of the world’s most active volcanoes.  Hikers can explore El Altar, which marks the park’s highest point, or venture near Tungurahua volcano.  A network of over 320 lagoons creates perfect alpine waters for Ecuador hiking trails enthusiasts.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Rich ecosystems support an incredible variety of species in the protected area:

• 107 mammal species, including rare Andean bears and mountain tapirs
• 430 bird species, making it a recognized Important Bird Area
• 33 amphibian and 14 reptile species

Hiking conditions are best from November to February.  Weather can change quickly here, and sudden downpours are common.  Local guides in Riobamba are a great way to get safety tips and navigation help through trusted operators.

Hidden Trails of Cayambe-Coca Reserve

The Cayambe-Coca Reserve protects 400,000 acres of Ecuador’s most diverse landscapes, stretching from snow-capped peaks to Amazon rainforest.

Route Description

Hikers can access several trails through the Papallacta entrance.  The El Agua y La Vida trail runs 7.5 kilometers and takes you past the Black Lagoon and Parcacocha Lagoon.  The 8-kilometer Andean Bear Trail is another option that leads through untouched wetlands and ancient Polylepis forests.

High-Altitude Preparation

These trails reach heights of 4,300 meters, so you’ll need time to adjust to the altitude.  Temperatures swing between 5°C and 25°C.  Here’s what you’ll need to bring:

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Warm layers
• Rain protection
• Drinking water
• Sun protection

Local Flora and Fauna

The reserve’s wildlife is rich with 106 mammal species and 395 bird species.  Mountain tapirs and spectacled bears make their home in the páramo grasslands.  You’ll find over 100 endemic plant species here, from rare orchids to unique high-altitude plants.  Lucky visitors might catch sight of Andean condors and sword-billed hummingbirds gliding above the cloud forests.

Rain and fog are common here because of the reserve’s location between the Amazon Basin and the western mountain pass.  A network of waterfalls, hot springs and pristine lakes creates a perfect home for diverse wildlife populations.

Secret Waterfall Circuit in Baños – Top Ecuador Hiking Trails

A spectacular 61-kilometer route winds through the Pastaza River gorge on the eastern edge of Baños.  The elevation drops almost 1,000 meters.  This Ruta de las Cascadas features some of Ecuador’s most beautiful waterfalls and attracts Ecuador hiking enthusiasts from everywhere.

Trail Details

The waterfall circuit extends 25 kilometers from Baños to Puyo.  The path follows a well-laid-out trail that suits hikers of all skill levels.  The route starts at the town’s eastern edge and descends through terrain that quickly transforms into tropical landscape.

Waterfall Descriptions

Six main waterfalls spread across five distinct sites make up the circuit.  Visitors start their adventure at Cascadas Ulba and Silencio instead of rushing to the more popular locations.  The mighty Cascada Agoyan showcases twin falls right on the Pastaza River.  Pailón del Diablo stands as the circuit’s highlight at 80 meters tall.  Water churns in a dramatic bowl before it cascades down a rocky channel.

Photography Spots

Sunrise provides the best photography opportunities before the crowds arrive.  The route has several excellent vantage points:

• Manto de la Novia viewpoint shows off its 40-meter veil-like cascade
• Pailón del Diablo’s upper viewing platform gives panoramic shots
• Rio Verde bridge offers unique waterfall views

Local Transport Options

Visitors can explore the circuit through several transportation choices.  Daily bike rentals cost about USD 10.00 and give budget-conscious travelers freedom to explore.  Busses connect Baños and Puyo every 15-30 minutes and stop at major waterfalls.  Taxis provide custom tours between USD 10.00 to USD 20.00 for those who want more flexibility.

Experience carnival in Ecuador.

Lesser-Known Paths of Antisana Ecological Reserve

The pristine trails of Antisana Ecological Reserve wind through undisturbed Andean landscapes at its western entrance, 48 kilometers southeast of Quito.  This 30-year-old protected area showcases Ecuador’s remarkable high-altitude Ecuador hiking experiences.

Trail Characteristics

La Mica Loop dominates the reserve’s diverse hiking routes with its 3.9-mile stretch and 1,062-foot elevation gain.  Hikers start their journey at 3,420 meters and reach the peak at 3,530 meters near the Secas viewpoint.  The original trail crosses an enormous lava flow, creating a unique geological adventure.

Condor Spotting Areas

The reserve’s four distinct cliffs serve as home to approximately 35 Andean condors.  Popular viewing spots include:

• Isco Lookout (Peñas del Isco) provides prime views of nesting sites
• La Mica Lake’s vicinity attracts condors gliding on thermal currents
• Tambocondor’s cliff ledges offer exceptional photography opportunities

Weather Conditions

The temperature ranges from -1°C to 15°C, averaging 5°C throughout the year.  July through September presents the best visiting window and August rewards visitors with the clearest skies.  Winter storms bring brief but intense rainfall as cool Andean air mixes with warm Amazon Basin currents.  Adventurous trekkers face challenging yet rewarding conditions amid the park’s frequent mist and fog.

Hidden Trails of Pululahua Crater

Pululahua Crater stands as one of South America’s most extraordinary Ecuador hiking destinations in the remnants of an ancient volcanic caldera.  This protected terrain spans 19 square kilometers.

Geological Features

Powerful eruptions and subsequent collapse formed the crater 2,500 years ago.  The summit reaches 4 kilometers in width, making Pululahua the world’s largest inhabited volcanic crater.  A distinctive central lava dome rises 1,600 feet skyward.  This natural formation creates an amphitheater-like structure that amazes visitors.

Agricultural Landscapes

Rich volcanic soils have created perfect conditions for organic farming.  Local farmers grow various crops here.  Their main focus remains on corn, sugar cane, beans, and a rare potato variety called camoate.  A unique microclimate helps crops thrive as daily fog rolls in from the Pacific Coast.  This moisture proves essential for healthy crop growth.

Trail Navigation Tips

Hikers can explore several marked paths in this reserve:

• Water Trail: A well-kept path past El Chivo lava dome
• Pondoña Hill Trail: A 3-hour trek with panoramic crater views
• Hot Water Springs Trail: A 4-hour experience through cloud forest terrain
• Lulumbamba Trail: A challenging 6-hour nature hike showcasing diverse flora

Hikers should begin their adventure early because afternoon fog typically shrouds the crater.  The trails become available through a steep, gravelly path that descends 1.5 kilometers from the rim.  Visitors with wheelchairs can access certain sections, including the 0.8-kilometer Sendero Adoquinado trail.

Secluded Routes in Machalilla National Park

Machalilla National Park stretches along Ecuador’s Pacific coastline and covers 289.8 square miles of beautiful landscapes.  This protected area has pristine beaches and dry forests that create perfect Ecuador hiking experiences.

Coastal Trail Details

The park has three distinct hiking paths that range from 2.7 to 4.0 miles.  The Frigates Trail climbs 534 feet as it winds through coastal cliffs.  The El Rocío Ecotourism Trail extends 1.9 kilometers through dry forest and showcases ancient trees, including a 300-year-old mullein.

Marine Wildlife Viewing

Between June and September, the park’s marine ecosystem comes alive with amazing wildlife.  Visitors can spot:

• Humpback whales during breeding season
• Blue-footed boobies and frigate birds
• Sea lions and albatross near Drake Bay
• Marine species like sea urchins and corals

Beach Access Points

Los Frailes is the park’s most beautiful beach with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters.  Visitors need to register at the park entrance with passport copies.  The beach area has shower facilities and restrooms that are available for a small fee.  Playa Dorada provides a quieter experience and is available through a cliff-side path that shows unique rock formations like “the monkey’s head” and stone hearts.

The park welcomes visitors from 8:00 to 17:00 daily, which gives plenty of time to explore.  Unlike other coastal areas, Machalilla blends tropical dry forest, rain forest and mountain wilderness zones.  This mix creates amazing hiking opportunities through different ecosystems.

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Unknown Paths of Cajas National Park

Cajas National Park sits in Ecuador’s southern highlands with trails reaching heights between 3,100 and 4,450 meters.

Trail Difficulty

The park’s routes range from short walks to tough multi-day adventures.  The Nature and Human History Trail winds through Polylepis forests for 4.2 kilometers.  Experienced hikers can tackle the technical climb up Cerro San Luis that reaches 4,264 meters.  Hikers must navigate with care through páramo landscapes and high-altitude grasslands.

Lake Views

A stunning network of 270 lakes and lagoons makes this park special.  Visitors can walk the 2.2-kilometer Toreadora Lake loop to see crystal-clear waters.  The Sanctuary of the Virgin path stretches 11.2 miles and follows ancient routes that link several alpine lakes.

Local Legends

The Cañari people think these waters are sacred.  They believe hidden waterways run beneath the surface to connect the lakes.  These pure waters flow down to Cuenca and play a key role in local life.

Safety Tips

The high altitude means you must prepare well.  Key safety steps include:

• Let your body adjust to the altitude before hiking
• Pack waterproof gear for the rain and mist
• Bring GPS tools to stay on marked trails
• Pack extra layers for temperatures that swing from -5°C to 18°C

You must sign in at the visitor center before heading into this big wilderness.  The weather changes faster here, so you just need to stay alert and bring the right gear to explore safely.

Secret Highland Routes Near Cuenca

A network of hidden highland trails lies just thirty kilometers from Cuenca, Ecuador’s third-largest city and beckons adventurous hikers.  These paths offer unique Ecuador hiking experiences through historically rich landscapes.  Hikers can reach them through the terminal terrestre in Cuenca.

Trail Access

Getting to these highland routes won’t break the bank.  Busses from Cuenca’s terminal are nowhere near as expensive as private transport.  Travelers can also take taxis that charge USD 20.00 for a 30-minute trip.  The welcoming nature of local Ecuadorians makes hitchhiking a practical option for adventurous souls.

Cultural Significance

The Kichwa people’s vibrant traditions thrive along these trails that wind through landscapes rich in indigenous heritage.  Ancient civilizations’ architectural mastery shines through numerous archeological sites connected by these paths.  Local festivals like Inti Raymi showcase the people’s deep bonds with nature and cosmos.

Local Communities

Each community’s women proudly wear their distinctive traditional dresses and hats, which reveal their village origins.  Indigenous populations protect their cultural identity through strict communal rules.  Modern times challenge these traditions as younger generations move away from their ancestral ways.  The declining turnout at traditional Sunday markets worries local guides who want to protect their rich cultural heritage.

Hidden Trails of Illinizas Ecological Reserve

The Illinizas Ecological Reserve stands majestically in Ecuador’s western cordillera.  This remarkable Ecuador hiking destination includes 149,900 hectares of pristine wilderness.  The reserve, established in 1996, showcases twin volcanic peaks that dominate the surroundings.

Route Description

The reserve has four distinct sections around the Quilotoa region.  Hikers start their journey at La Virgen parking lot (3,900m) and follow well-marked paths to the Nuevos Horizontes Refuge.  The trails stretch from 3,000m to 5,250m, and the terrain suits both beginners and seasoned hikers.

Alpine Conditions

Temperatures in the reserve range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, making hikes challenging yet rewarding.  The northern peak reaches 5,126 meters with sand and rock formations.  Its southern counterpart still features glacial characteristics.  Weather changes faster between October and December, so hikers must prepare with appropriate gear.

Required Permits

Every visitor must register at the National Park office.  The entry process needs passport details, age verification and emergency contacts.  Essential equipment includes:

• Mountaineer’s clothing and crampon shoes
• Harness and ice ax
• Helmet for technical sections
• Emergency supplies

Technical climbs need mandatory guides, and costs vary based on route difficulty and duration.  The refuge provides simple amenities like electricity, boiled water and emergency communication facilities.

Undiscovered Paths in Sumaco National Park

Sumaco National Park spans 205,249 hectares of pristine Amazon rainforest beneath the eastern slopes of the Andes.  This UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve stands as proof of Ecuador’s remarkable biodiversity.

Amazon Rainforest Experience

Trails wind through a variety of ecosystems at elevations from 600 to 3,827 meters.  Massive trees create silent behemoths in the terra firme forest that visitors encounter first.  Sunken troughs of mud mark the path that ends up at mountain refuges with simple overnight accommodations.

Indigenous Guide Requirements

The Kichwa community’s ecotourism enterprise in Pacto Sumaco, 25 years old, manages visitor access.  Local guides provide expert navigation through challenging terrain for USD 40 per day.  Their community initiative protects biodiversity and creates green income sources for indigenous inhabitants.

Wildlife Encounters

The park’s extraordinary biodiversity includes:

• 831 bird species, surpassing the combined avian diversity of Costa Rica and North America
• 17 mammal species recorded at 2,500 meters altitude
• Large predators like jaguars, pumas and spectacled bears
• Endemic amphibians, such as Osornophryne sumacoensis

Visitors can best experience the park from June through October, when temperatures range between 7-11°C.  Water sources flow abundantly along the trails, though purification tablets remain necessary.  The park’s conservation efforts require certified guides to ensure visitor safety and environmental protection.

Secret Routes Around Altar Volcano

El Altar’s secret routes rank among the most challenging Ecuador hiking experiences.  These trails offer pristine wilderness at elevations reaching 5,319 meters.

Trail Navigation

A steep, muddy ascent through the Collanes Valley marks the beginning of this adventure.  The trail winds through páramo landscapes where hikers need to carefully navigate swampy grasslands dotted with massive boulders.  Numerous waterfalls cascade down from surrounding peaks and create a dramatic backdrop for hikers.

Mountain Views

A breathtaking turquoise-green lagoon surrounded by glaciers and snowy peaks awaits at the summit.  The crater’s rim provides panoramic views of distant mountains, with peaks that look like waves on the horizon.  Multiple colored lakes enhance the landscape’s beauty.  The star lagoon, blue lagoon, and green lagoon each get their unique tints from mineral deposits.

Local Support Services

The Capac Urcu refuge at 11,150 feet provides simple amenities.  The facility includes:

• Running water and gas stove facilities
• Solar-powered charging stations
• Satellite phone for emergencies
• Simple sleeping accommodations

This trek needs proper preparation as temperatures range between -5°C and 18°C.  Mule services can transport supplies for USD 40.00, which makes the challenging terrain easier to handle.  The trip takes about three days, giving hikers enough time to explore this remarkable volcanic landscape.

Hidden Trails of Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve

The Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve covers 752,235 acres of Ecuador’s most diverse landscapes, stretching from Sierra Mountains to Esmeraldas.

Trail Description

You’ll find the reserve’s main entrance near Cuicocha Lagoon, where the Ruta Sagrada and Gorky Campuzano trails welcome visitors.  The paths weave around a 200-meter-deep volcanic crater lake that features dramatic volcanic domes breaking through the water’s surface.  The network of trails extends through the páramos of Cotacachi and Piñán and leads toward the lush montane forest.

Ecosystem Diversity

This remarkable reserve spans several biological zones, from Andean highlands with average temperatures of 15°C to subtropical regions reaching 25°C.  The protected area is home to:

• 500 bird species and 2,000 flora varieties
• A range of mammals including anteaters, ocelots, and paramo wolves
• Many fish and amphibian species thriving in lakes and rivers

The area protects vital plant species that have adapted to high altitudes and preserves one of Ecuador’s last coastal rainforest segments.  This biodiversity hotspot stretches from southern Panama to northern Peru, which highlights its ecological importance.

Cultural Encounters

Both Cayapa Indians and Afro-Ecuadorian communities call the reserve their home.  Local guides help visitors navigate the lower sections through Santiago and Cayapas rivers to reach settlements like Playa de Oro and San Miguel.  These communities keep their traditional practices alive and give visitors a chance to learn about their cultural heritage through guided experiences.

Comparison Table

Enjoy Ecuador Hiking Trails

Ecuador’s hidden hiking trails showcase nature’s remarkable diversity.  These paths stretch from coastal routes to high-altitude volcanic tracks.  The 15 secluded trails feature pristine landscapes that teem with unique wildlife.  Andean condors soar above Antisana while rare orchids bloom in Podocarpus cloud forests.

Local guides are vital to navigate these remote territories safely.  Their knowledge covers both technical requirements and cultural significance.  The trails weave through indigenous communities that preserve centuries-old traditions while protecting these natural sanctuaries.

Successful trail exploration needs significant preparation.  The trails’ altitude ranges from 600 to 5,319 meters, which means hikers need time to adjust.  Weather patterns can be unpredictable, so the right gear matters.  The dry months in Ecuador offer peak hiking conditions on many trails.

These hidden paths are more than just hiking routes.  They serve as living museums of geological wonders, biological diversity and cultural heritage.  Ecuador’s lesser-known trails give adventurous spirits some extraordinary moments.  Hikers can watch humpback whales breach near Machalilla’s coastal paths and find ancient Inca routes through Oyacachi’s pristine páramos.

FAQs on Ecuador Hiking Trails

Q1. What is the best time of year to hike in Ecuador?
The optimal hiking season in Ecuador generally falls between June and September, when weather conditions are drier and more stable.  However, specific regions may have different ideal periods, so it’s best to research the particular area you plan to visit.

Q2. Do I need a guide for hiking in Ecuador?
While not always mandatory, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for many trails in Ecuador, especially in remote or high-altitude areas.  Guides provide valuable knowledge about the terrain, wildlife and safety precautions, enhancing your hiking experience.

Q3. What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in Ecuador?
Ecuador’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife.  Depending on the region, you might encounter Andean condors, spectacled bears, various monkey species, colorful birds like toucans and quetzals, and even marine life like whales and sea lions in coastal areas.

Q4. How challenging are Ecuador’s hiking trails?
Ecuador offers hiking trails for all skill levels, from easy nature walks to challenging high-altitude treks.  Many trails involve significant elevation changes and can be physically demanding, especially those in the Andes.  It’s important to choose trails that match your fitness level and experience.

Q5. What should I pack for a hiking trip in Ecuador?
Essential items for hiking in Ecuador include sturdy waterproof hiking boots, layered clothing for varying temperatures, rain gear, sun protection, a first-aid kit and plenty of water.  For high-altitude hikes, warm clothing and proper acclimatization are crucial.  Always check specific trail requirements before your trip.