Ecuador
Ecuador
12 days, 6+ races, countless adventures!
12 days, 6+ races, countless adventures!
OVERVIEW
mAP & ITINERARY
WHAT TO EXPECT
PLAN YOUR TRAVEL
bOOK YOUR TRIP
FAQ
Experience Life at the Equator
Get ready to travel around the equator (on foot!) as we explore Ecuador, a small South American country with fascinating history, wildly diverse landscapes and sights that are second to none.
You will test your lungs as we follow in the footsteps of the Quechua, be delighted by the deep greens and array of other colors in the Amazon Rainforest and hopefully get joyful glimpses of the unique wildlife local to the Galápagos Islands like the giant land tortoises and blue-footed boobies.
From the Amazon to the Andes and the stunning natural beauty of the nearby Islands, this country is asking to be explored and we can't wait to show you around!
QUICK INFO:
- Daily afternoon activities & Galápagos national park admission included
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included
- Four domestic flights within Ecuador included to and from Quito, the Amazon, and the Galápagos Islands
- International flight not included
- Covid-19 vaccination not required
- 2024 Trip 1: April 6-17, 2024
- 2024 Trip 2: Nov 23 - Dec 3, 2024
- 12 day all-inclusive trip in Ecuador
- 6+ trail runs and hikes (~7-12K)
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:
See it all! Experience the perfect blend of mountains, jungles, and islands in one trip.
Snorkel and experience the biodiverse Galápagos Islands.
Be a guest of traditional communities high in the Andes.
Run through deep green trails of the Amazon!
"...you're guaranteed to leave with tired legs and a full heart."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Country: Ecuador
Known for its diverse landscapes, colorful culture, and endless Spring on the equator, Ecuador is a South American country that should be added to your bucket list. It is home to many notable points of interest from the towering Andes Mountains that surround the sprawling capital city of Quito to the lush Amazon Rainforest and the active Cotopaxi volcano!
There is no shortage of impressive places to explore here and with great weather year-round, the trails will be temperate and perfect for trekking.
CAPITAL
Quito
LANGUAGE
Spanish
CURRENCY
US Dollar
WEATHER
55 °F (mountains) - 85 °F (rainforest)
LANDSCAPE
Andean peaks and Amazonian rainforest
KNOWN FOR
Abundant biodiversity in the Galapagos Islands
Color & Tradition in the Andes
The Andean valley that surrounds Quito is home to important indigenous cultures and historic sites, such as the Cocasquí archaeological ruins. From pyramids to craft markets, there is much to discover in Ecuador.
Our trek through the Andes will allow us to soak in this rich history and witness indigenous traditions first-hand.
The Legacy of the Galápagos
Located 600 miles off the Ecuadorian coast, the Galápagos Islands are one of the most volcanically active areas in the world.
The islands are famous for their complex and evolving ecosystem of turtles, blue-footed boobies, seals, iguana, and more. It's no wonder they were the inspiration behind Darwin's theory of evolution.
Today, the Galápagos Marine Reserve is a recognized Natural Heritage Site where dozens of unique species are protected.
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
Who Goes On A Global Adventure?
Solo Travelers
connect with your curiosity
You can arrive solo, but you're never alone. Surrounded by like-minded travelers, you just may find your new travel companion — and a new favorite hobby to boot!
Dating + Daring
Entertain novelty
You may be partners, but that doesn't mean you want the "typical" romantic getaway. You two are more of the high-adventure type.
Hop on in!
Best Buds
LET MOMENTS BECOME MEMORIES
When's the last time your friends have had an excuse to get away? If smiling and laughing your butts off while exploring beautiful destinations isn't a good enough reason to get together, we don't know what is!
Turning a New Leaf
embolden your heart
Chin up and feet forward! You're looking for change or at least a week to turn your back on whatever you left behind. Escape, refresh, and leave with a new perspective.
Ecuador Itinerary
Please note that this is an example of activities and quality stays you will enjoy with us. Changes may occur based on weather, logistics, and new opportunities. We will always search for comparable alternatives when a change is made.
Scroll to explore!
Adventure Overview
- Day 1: Welcome to Quito
- Day 2: Ibarra
- Day 3: Ibarra
- Day 4: Travel to the Amazon
- Day 5: Coca
- Day 6: Travel Quito
- Day 7: Travel to the Galápagos
- Day 8: Isla Isabela
- Day 9: Isla Isabela
- Day 10: Isla Floreana
- Day 11: Travel to Quito
- Day 12: Farewells in Quito
Saturday (Day 1): Welcome to Quito, Ecuador
When you land in Quito, our team will be ready to introduce you to the second highest city in the world! Together, we'll acclimate to life 9,350 feet above sea level as we prepare for our first journey into the mountains.
We'll organize shuttles from the airport to our first night's hotel. In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks at our welcome event where you'll meet your Event Director and review the week's upcoming adventures!
If you arrive early in the day: Join us for an optional afternoon run around Quito Metropolitan Park. This park is loved by local Ecuadorians and features views of the sprawling city. It's a great way to meet some of your fellow travelers and stretch those legs after a day of travel.
- Welcome dinner & orientation
- GO Quito Hotel
- Fly into Quito (UIO)
- Event check-in: approx. 6:00pm
Sunday (Day 2): Into the Mountains of Ibarra
We're off to the Andes! We will eat breakfast at the hotel before driving to Cuicocha Lagoon, a beautiful blue crater lake, for our first run. You might want to take this run easy — not just to enjoy the views, but because you'll be running at 9,000 feet above sea level!
Afterward, enjoy a group lunch in the town of Cotacachi. You have the afternoon to take it slow and explore the town on your own. Check out the local leather and artisan markets!
- Free afternoon to explore artisan markets
- Cuicocha Lagoon (9km)
- Hacienda Chorlavi
- Ibarra, EC
Monday (Day 3): Run a World-Famous Trail
Grab a nourishing breakfast at the hotel before we head to one of our longest runs of the week, the Chasqui Trail. This historic trade route predates the Inca and moved everything from news to coca. Now, it's a world-famous running destination!
When your legs and lungs have had their fill, we'll sit down for lunch and traditional Caranqui music and dance performances led by the community of San Clemente. These local people have carried on a traditional way of life in the mountains that spans generations.
In the late afternoon, enjoy free time at the hotel grounds or spa. This is a great time to book a massage after completing those tough high altitude runs!
- Community lunch, music, and dancing
- Chasqui Trail (13km)
- Hacienda Chorlavi
- Ibarra, EC
Tuesday (Day 4): Down into the Amazon
Pack your bags, it's time to head to the jungle! We're flying to the Amazon for an epic run through the jungle where we hope to see and hear lots of wildlife!
Relax in the afternoon on the beautiful grounds of Yarina Ecolodge. Listen and look for wildlife from your very own hammock or take a short jungle walk.
Today's flight from Quito to the Amazon is included in the cost of your trip.
- Free afternoon to explore the grounds of Yarina
- Jungle Trail (~5-6km)
- Flight from Quito to Coca
- Yarina Ecolodge
- Coca, EC
Wednesday (Day 5): Wildlife Cruise in the Amazon
Sleep in just a little bit before our second jungle run of the week. Let the lush greenness of the Amazon Rainforest surround you as you make your way through the shady trails.
We'll cruise the Amazon River on a wildlife spotting tour in the afternoon. Bring your binoculars to look for animals like sloths, caymans, agoutis, and colorful birds! We'll then test your angling skills when we fish for red piranhas. Eek!
- Amazon wildlife river cruise
- Cacao Trail (~5-6km)
- Yarina Ecolodge
- Coca, EC
Thursday (Day 6): Rest Day in Quito
We fly back to Quito in the morning so that you can rest and recover before the second half of our trip which is packed with excitement and adventure in the Galápagos Islands!
Relax or explore some of the sights around Quito. Check out our recommendations on the top things to do in Quito! Then, get some rest this evening, tomorrow is an early morning.
Today's flight from the Amazon to Quito is included in the cost of your trip.
- Free day to rest and explore the capital city!
- No run today!
- Fly from Coca to Quito
- GO Quito Hotel
- Quito, EC
Friday (Day 7): Off to the Galapagos Islands
Rise and shine! We will have a breakfast box ready for you before our early morning flight. When we land, we'll travel by boat to Isabela Island, one of the youngest and most volcanic Islands in the Galápagos.
Enjoy lunch at the hotel and a relaxing afternoon of flamingo spotting. Take your time settling into life on the Galápagos Islands.
Today's flight from Quito to the Galapagos is included in the cost of your trip.
- Visit wildlife centers for flamingo
- Optional run (~2.5km)
- Flight from Quito to Isla Isabela
- La Casa de Marita
- Isla Isabela, EC
Saturday (Day 8): Volcanic Islands
Stretch out your legs on a scenic run on El Mango Trail. This run features views of the rolling green landscape.
After lunch, we're going on an immersive volcanic tour! Don't worry, we aren't plummeting you into the heart of an active volcano. This activity is around the Sierra Negra volcano and offers beautiful views of Isabela Island. Plus, we'll get the opportunity to see a sulphur mine.
- Visit & tour Sierra Negra volcano
- El Mango Trail (12.8km)
- La Casa de Marita
- Isla Isabela, EC
Sunday (Day 9): Snorkeling in the Galápagos
We're mixing things up today! Instead of a morning run, we start the day with an incredible snorkeling activity at Los Túneles. Here, the lava flows have created tunnels that house unique marine organisms like swimming iguanas, lobsters, and sea turtles!
Dry off and enjoy lunch on your own before our afternoon run at Muro de las Lagrimas. Some say this area might be haunted. Boo!
- Snorkeling at the volcanic tunnels
- Muro de las Lagrimas (9km or 12.5km)
- La Casa de Marita
- Isla Isabela, EC
Monday (Day 10): Island Hopping in the Galápagos
Bet you didn't think we'd be island hopping on this trip, did you? The Galápagos are a series of 127 islands, though only 19 of them are large. Today, we travel to Isla Floreana to get back in the water and visit the uniquely colorful beaches and wildlife.
- Snorkeling with wildife
- No run today!
- La Casa de Marita
- Isla Santa Cruz, EC
Tuesday (Day 11): Back to Basecamp in Quito
Wake up and enjoy a leisurely walk around Tortuga Bay to soak up the last of island life on the Galápagos.
After breakfast, we travel back to basecamp in Quito. The last 10 days have been incredible, and you have the evening to yourself before we gather one last time for our farewell dinner. Hug your new friends and make plans to meet again!
Today's flight from the Galapagos to Quito is included in the cost of your trip.
- Tortuga Bay walk
- No run today!
- Flight from Isla Santa Cruz to Quito
- GO Quito Hotel
- Quito, EC
Wednesday (Day 12): Farewells in Quito
We're sorry to say it but even this adventure must come to an end. You're free to stick around and explore some more on your own or head home to tell your friends and family about your week abroad. Either way, it's not "goodbye," it's "until next time."
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
While our team is still scouting this location, the info below will give you insight on how a Global Adventure works from booking to farewells.
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us the month before your trip - we'll send packing info, weather updates, and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Weather will vary from the mountains to the jungle, so pack breathable layers.
- You'll be able to use US dollars.
- Max 45 people per trip
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us in Run Signup. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
While each adventure is unique, the info below captures the daily schedule of a typical Global Adventure.
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, kayaking, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs.
ECUADOR TRAIL RUNS
Exact trails, distances, and the order we run them may vary from trip to trip depending on weather and trail conditions.
Cuicocha Lagoon (9km)
Route: High altitude & elevation gain
Terrain: Mud and stone path
Level: Challenging - we'll hike mostly!
Let's start the week strong with a rugged trail in the Andes.
Chasqui Trail (~13km)
Route: High altitude, downhill trail
Terrain: Mix of mud, grass, and stone
Level: Challenging - we'll hike mostly!
Our most challenging run of the week, but well worth the effort! We're following an old Incan trail used for mail delivery.
Jungle Trail (5-6km)
Route: Flat trail
Terrain: Jungle dirt trail
Level: Easy to moderate
We're shifting from dry mountain air to steamy jungle heat. This run give us a chance to see some wildlife in their natural habitat.
Cacao Trail (5-6km)
Route: Flat trail
Terrain: Jungle dirt trail
Level: Easy to moderate
We're heading deeper into the jungle for this morning trail run.
El Mango Trail (12.8km)
Route: Point-to-point with some elevation gain
Terrain: Double track and loose gravel
Level: Moderate to challenging
Today we'll start early with a sunrise run to beat the heat.
Muro de las Lagrimas (9km or 12.5km)
Route: Flat point-to-point
Terrain: Mix of sandy, paved, and wooden pathways
Level: Moderate to challenging
What better way to finish a week of runs than a sunset trail run!
Plan Your Travel
Now that you're as excited as we are, let's get down to the gritty details of your adventure.
Travel Details
Arrival (first day):
- Please plan to arrive in Quito by early afternoon on the first day of your trip. There may be an optional run with us at 2pm!
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), Ecuador
- Check in to the GO Quito Hotel& enjoy our welcome dinner!
Depart (last day):
- We will already be in Quito on the last day. You may schedule departing flights throughout the day.
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), Ecuador
- Check out from the GO Quito Hotel
Packing & Prep
Coverage: You may want to consider travel insurance for such an epic adventure! Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
Packing List: These are fast-paced events. We'll send you a packing list before the trip to help you feel ready to tackle...well, just about anything!
Training: Adventurers of various skill levels can enjoy our running adventures. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
Check out the Ecuador trail runs for more info on what to expect!
Ask Us Any Question
Our event directors love to talk all things 'Global Adventures'. From travel advice to making sure a trip meets your needs, there is no question too big or too small!
Upcoming Trip Dates
2024 Dates
April 6-17, 2024
12 Days | 11 Nights
$7,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. International flights not included.
only a $500 refundable deposit due at registration!
Act fast - Bookings close early January!
Extended trip length!
November 23 - December 3, 2024
12 Days | 11 Nights
$7,500
per guest
Based on double-occupancy rooms. International flights not included.
only a $500 refundable deposit due at registration!
Extended trip length!
Got Questions? We've Got Answers:
Unique Trip Inclusions
- Extended trip length of 12 days and 11 nights in Ecuador
- Four domestic flights to help us explore the breadth and depth of the Andes, Amazon, and the Galápagos Islands
- Visitor permits for the Galápagos National Park
Included in all Global Adventures
- 6+ trail runs or hikes (~7-12K)
- Expert team of staff, guides, and a medic
- Daily activities and outings
- Hotels and lodging
- Most meals (and drinks!)
- Local transport
- Travel swag and race medals
Payment & Policy Info
Pricing Breakdown
Trip Pricing:
$7,500 (double occupancy room)
$9,000 (single occupancy room)
Deposit:
$500 (Refundable until 5 months before the event!)
The full trip cost is refundable minus a fee until 3 months before the event. Please read the Registration Policy for more info.
Registration Policies
Click to Read Our Policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
How much does a Global Adventures trip cost?
All Global Adventures trips include the cost of daily hotels, included group activities and entrance fees, domestic transportation in the host country, and most food and drinks.
The cost of your flight to and from the host country is not included to allow participants to choose the travel options that are right for them.
Looking for the exact cost of this trip? Head to the Book Your Trip tab!
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute per mile trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails. They can join us as a fast hiker (20 minutes per mile) if they choose!
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Ready to run? Sign up for emails!
We'll send updates directly to your inbox when new details are released.
Still got questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.
