13.Columnas de Tangan Trek

are a series of impressive rock formations located in the Totorillas Valley in Ecuador. These geological wonders are known for their tall, column-like structures that have been naturally formed over millions of years due to volcanic activity and erosion.

The hike to Columnas de Tangan is considered moderate and takes visitors through scenic landscapes with views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. You’ll likely encounter diverse flora and fauna along the way. It’s a great spot for adventure and nature lovers, offering a mix of hiking and sightseeing.

If you’re planning to visit, it’s a good idea to go with a local guide, as they can provide valuable insights about the area and its unique features. You may also want to bring proper footwear, plenty of water, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery! Would you like to know more about specific trails or tips for the hike?

Trail Overview

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Duration: The hike typically takes around 4–5 hours, depending on your pace and any stops you take along the way to enjoy the views.
• Distance: Roughly 7–8 km (4–5 miles) round trip.
• Elevation: The trail begins at a lower altitude and gradually ascends. Make sure to acclimate to the altitude if you’re coming from lower elevations.

Trail Description

• Start Point: The hike usually begins from the nearby village of Totorillas, which is a small, peaceful town near the formation. From here, the trail takes you through scenic mountain paths and fields.
• Landscape: Expect to hike through lush greenery, with stunning views of the valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through agricultural lands, remote villages, and, as you near the columns, the terrain becomes rockier and more dramatic.
• Arrival at Columnas: Once you reach the column formations, you’re greeted by towering, eroded rock columns that can be as tall as 15 meters. It’s a surreal sight and great for photography.

What to Bring

• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
• Water and Snacks: There are no services along the hike, so make sure to pack enough water and energy-boosting snacks.
• Weather Protection: The weather can change quickly, so be prepared with layers. A light rain jacket is a good idea, especially during the rainy season.
• Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the valley and the columns themselves.
• Guide: While the trail is marked, a local guide can help you learn about the history, geology, and biodiversity of the area. They can also ensure you stay on track and stay safe.

Best Time to Hike

• Dry Season: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to September, when the weather is more predictable, and the trails are less slippery.
• Rainy Season: Be mindful of the rainy season (October to May), as the path can become muddy and challenging to navigate.

14.Illinizas Trek

The Illinizas are two prominent volcanic peaks located in the Ecuadorian Andes, near the town of Machachi, south of Quito. The Illinizas are known for their rugged beauty and are popular for hiking and mountaineering.

Iliniza Norte (5,126 m / 16,818 ft) and Iliniza Sur (5,263 m / 17,270 ft) are the two peaks that make up the Illinizas. The Iliniza Norte is generally the more accessible of the two for hikers, while the Iliniza Sur is a more technical climb that attracts experienced mountaineers.

Popular Hiking Trails:

1. Iliniza Norte Hiking Trail:

   • The trail to the summit of Iliniza Norte is considered a moderate challenge, requiring basic mountaineering skills. The hike typically starts at the La Virgen Refugio (about 4,000 meters), and the summit is reached in around 4 to 5 hours, depending on weather and fitness levels.
   • The route involves some scrambling and navigating rocky terrain, but it doesn’t require advanced climbing skills.

2. Iliniza Sur Hiking Trail:

   • This trail is more challenging and suited for experienced climbers. It involves glacier travel, technical rock climbing, and other alpine skills. It’s often done with a guide, as the terrain can be difficult to navigate.
   • The climb usually takes around 6-8 hours to reach the summit, and the ascent involves dealing with ice and mixed conditions, making it much more demanding.

Key Highlights:

• Scenic Views: The Illinizas offer incredible views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Cotopaxi Volcano, the Chimborazo peak (the closest point on Earth to the sun), and the deep valleys below.
• Wildlife: The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including condors, pumas, and a rich diversity of plant life.
• Access: The trailhead for both Illinizas is located near El Refugio La Virgen, which can be reached by car from Machachi.

The Illinizas are an excellent option for those looking for a challenging hike or climb in the Ecuadorian Andes. If you’re planning a hike, it’s important to consider the altitude and prepare for the cold weather conditions, especially near the summit.

15.Galápagos Hiking Trails

The Galápagos Islands provide unique trekking experiences with volcanic landscapes, endemic wildlife, and stunning coastal views.

El Junco Lagoon Hike

Located on San Cristóbal Island, El Junco Lagoon is the only freshwater lake in the Galápagos, offering a scenic hike with panoramic views.

Highlights:

• Rare freshwater ecosystem
• Opportunity to see frigatebirds and other endemic species
• Short and accessible hike

Best Time to Visit: Year-round

Best Time to Visit: December to May (warmer and calmer seas)

The Galápagos Islands offer some incredible hikes and treks for nature lovers, with each island providing a unique experience. Here are some of the best hikes and treks to consider:

1. Sierra Negra Volcano (Isabela Island)

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Length: 16 km (10 miles)
• Duration: 6-8 hours
• The hike to the Sierra Negra volcano takes you up to one of the largest volcanic craters in the world. The views are spectacular, offering panoramas of the rugged landscape, crater, and surrounding islands. It’s a challenging hike, but the rewards are immense.

• Santa Cruz Island is home to several fascinating lava tubes, which are essentially caves formed by flowing lava. These tunnels are a great place to explore while learning about the geological history of the islands.

2. Charles Darwin Research Station & Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz Island)

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 3.5 km (2.2 miles) to Tortuga Bay
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• The trail to Tortuga Bay starts near the Charles Darwin Research Station. The path takes you through a beautiful coastal area and leads to one of the most stunning beaches in the Galápagos, known for its white sand and turquoise waters.

3. El Junco Lagoon (San Cristóbal Island)

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 4-5 km (2.5-3.1 miles)
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• This is a short but rewarding hike that leads to a crater lake at the top of San Cristóbal Island. From the lagoon, you can enjoy views of the island, the coastline, and the surrounding area. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, as the lagoon is home to many species of wildlife.

4. Gardner Bay (Española Island)

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: Short walk
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Known for its incredible beaches, the hike around Gardner Bay takes you through a coastal area with plenty of wildlife, including sea lions. The trail is relatively short but offers beautiful views of the surrounding water and rugged landscape.

5. Prince Philip’s Steps (Genovesa Island)

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 1.5 km (0.9 miles)
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• This is a short but steep climb to a plateau where you can observe unique birdlife, including red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and petrels. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean.

6. Tortuga Bay Trail (Santa Cruz Island)

• Difficulty: Easy
• Length: 3 km (1.9 miles)
• Duration: 1 hour
• The trail to Tortuga Bay is an easy walk that takes you through a beautiful mangrove area, leading to one of the Galápagos’ most stunning beaches. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the island.

7. Floreana Island (Asylum of Peace Hike)

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Length: 3-5 km (1.9-3.1 miles)
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• This hike takes you through Floreana’s lush vegetation, where you can explore the rich history of the island and enjoy sightings of birds and wildlife. The “Asylum of Peace” is a unique historical spot where early settlers of the Galápagos lived in isolation.

These treks and hikes provide a mix of stunning landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and insights into the volcanic history of the islands. Each island in the Galápagos has its own charm, and you can expect to find a wide variety of ecosystems, from lush forests to volcanic craters and pristine beaches.