Ecuador 2008

Timberline Mountain Guides, Inc is pleased to announce our 2008 trip to Ecuador. TMG guide Joe Owens will be running the trip, and Ecuador is one of his favorite countries to visit and climb in. It is such a diverse country with jungle to the east, mountains in the center, and a beautiful coastline and, of course, the Galapagos Islands offshore.

We realize that a visit to Ecuador is about climbing and spending time in the mountains but it is also a wonderful opportunity to experience the native Quechua, and the many other cultural attractions the country has to offer.

Of course climbing is the reason for the trip, and flying into Quito reminds us of flying into Portland, with majestic snow covered mountains to the North, East and South. We spend a day in Quito and visit the San Francisco Plaza, among other sights. Our program ensures that climbers acclimatize slowly with several hikes/climbs before we drive to the first major peak called Cayambe, 18,993'/5,789m where we will spend several days getting prepared for our summit attempt.

We are also planning on visiting the famous market of Otavalo. The Quechua people who live in the mountain regions are warm and friendly and provide a wonderful glimpse of an amazing culture, fantastic artwork, yarns and sweaters.

After a rest for a day or two, our next climbing goal will be Cotopaxi, 19,347'/5,897m. After the climbing, we travel southeast to the quaint town of Banos, nestled between the volcano Tungurahua, complete with hot spring and waterfalls. Its a great place to hangout, relax and reflect on the climbing. Banos is close to the jungle and there is an opportunity travel east through the Oriente back to Quito.

Throughout the trip will have a local driver/guide with us at all times and this helps us to remain flexible. The weather is quite predictable in November but we allow for changes by evaluating conditions and revising the schedule to help our climbers maximize their trip.

Our 13 day in country program is different than most guide services and provides extra time for good acclimatization and rest before the final summit attempts. We have found that this slower approach to high altitude climbing works extremely well. We provide top quality food, lodging and highly personalized climbing instruction that gives you your best chance to achieve these magnificent summits.

TMG guide Joe Owens will be leading the trip in 2008. Joe has guided and climbed several times in Ecuador before, and is the coordinator for our El Pico de Orizaba trip in Mexico. We will be using local guides for assistance as well.