Antisana → Cotopaxi · eastern páramo
The Condor Trek
A four-day traverse across Ecuador's wildest high páramo — from the Antisana reserve to the foot of Cotopaxi — in the territory of the Andean condor. One of the great Andean treks, and few people walk it.
What is the Condor Trek?
The Condor Trek is the classic multi-day wilderness traverse of Ecuador's eastern Andes — a point-to-point route across the vast, empty páramo that links the Antisana reserve with the flanks of Cotopaxi. National Geographic once named it a bucket-list adventure, and on the trail it's easy to see why: rolling golden grasslands, glaciated peaks on every horizon, herds of wild horses, and the Andean condor riding the wind overhead.
This is real backcountry. You camp out for three nights, carry only a daypack while horses move the gear, and spend your days walking through country with no roads, no towns and almost no other people. It's the most immersive way to experience the high Ecuadorian Andes — a genuine expedition, not a series of day trips.
How many days — 3, 4 or 5?
Most operators sell a 4-day Condor Trek, but you'll see 3- and 5-day versions too. Honestly: 3 days is a hard push that skips the best camps; 4 days is the sweet spot; 5 days adds a rest/wildlife day and is lovely if you have the time. We'll tell you straight which fits your fitness and schedule — and we build the itinerary around condor-viewing spots, not just distance.
The climb, day by day
Your itinerary
The classic 4-day Condor Trek
Drive to the Antisana reserve, then trek into the high grasslands with the glaciated cone of Antisana ahead. First camp by a páramo lake — prime condor country.
A long, beautiful day crossing open páramo and ridgelines, wild horses scattering ahead, big views in every direction. Camp deep in the backcountry.
Continue the traverse as Cotopaxi grows on the skyline, through valleys and past lakes, to a final wilderness camp under the volcano.
A final morning into Cotopaxi National Park — Limpiopungo lagoon and the volcano up close — before the trail ends and the drive back to Quito.
Condor Trek altitude
The trek stays high the whole way — mostly between 3,800 m and 4,500 m — so acclimatization in Quito (and ideally a warm-up hike) beforehand really matters:
What's included
Included
- Local trekking guide for the full traverse
- All camping gear, tents & camp kitchen
- Pack horses / porters for the gear
- Reserve & park fees + private transport
- All meals on the trek
Not included
- Quito hotels and international flights
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Personal sleeping bag and hiking gear
- Guide gratuities
Gear & equipment
We provide
- Tents & full camp kit
- Pack horses for the gear
- Camp meals & kitchen
- Guide & navigation
You bring
- Waterproof boots & gaiters
- 4-season sleeping bag (or rent)
- Full layering & rain shell
- Daypack & 2 L water
- Headlamp, gloves & sun protection
Guides & safety
- Local high-páramo trekking guides
- Remote wilderness & navigation experience
- Horse-supported, small groups
- Weather-flexible, multi-day camp logistics
Before you climb
Condor Trek FAQ
Will I actually see condors on the Condor Trek?
Often, yes — the route crosses prime Andean condor habitat around Antisana, one of the best places in Ecuador to see them. Sightings are never guaranteed with wild birds, but we time the days and camps around the spots where they soar most reliably.
How hard is the Condor Trek?
Challenging — not technical, but you're walking 5–7 hours a day at sustained altitudes of 3,800–4,500 m and camping out for three nights in remote, weather-exposed country. Good fitness and proper acclimatization beforehand are essential.
How many days is the Condor Trek?
The classic version is 4 days / 3 nights, with 3-day and 5-day variants. We recommend 4 as the sweet spot — enough to do the traverse justice without rushing — and will tailor it to your fitness and time.
Do I have to carry all my gear?
No. Pack horses (or porters) carry the camping gear and food, so you only walk with a light daypack. That's what makes a multi-day traverse at this altitude enjoyable rather than brutal.
When is the best time for the Condor Trek?
June–September and December–January offer the most stable páramo weather. It's high, exposed country, so we always build in flexibility for wind and rain and pick the best window around your dates.
Plan your ascent
Ready to cross the páramo?
Tell us your dates and trekking experience and we'll set up the guide, the horses and the camps for a true wilderness traverse — from Antisana to Cotopaxi, under the wings of the condor.