Hiking Andes

Pichincha offers the most doable hikes among all trails in Ecuador. The hike is physically tiring and challenging because of the height; hikers tend to suffer mild altitude sickness. But the saving grace is that the hike is not steep. It gets cold and windy at the top. It can also get foggy and cloudy at no notice. The various checkpoints or milestones of the trail are Cumbre Rucu, Piedra de Agila, El Arenal, Cueva del Oso and Piramide Caida. The trail is at an altitude of 13,287 ft. The 15-km long hike requires at least 5 hours with a good fitness levels. To reach the bottom of the mountain, simply thumb a taxi. That is the good part of Quito, Ecuador. It is nestled perfectly between mountains. A pool-ride will cost you as less as a $1. A private taxi costs no more than $3.