Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions – Ecuador Eco Adventure

1. How do bookings, deposits, and terms & conditions work?

Our team confirms any trip or expedition only upon receiving a deposit of approximately 30% of the total cost. This deposit is non-refundable, as it is immediately used to secure services such as refuges, guides, accommodations, and logistics.

2. What happens if the weather is not favorable?

We cannot be held responsible for bad weather. Ecuador generally has similar conditions year-round, allowing tours to run throughout the year. However, weather is unpredictable, and forecast sites are only about 50% accurate. Our guides assess the conditions on the day of the climb. We do not issue refunds or make extra arrangements if weather conditions prevent the climb.

3. What if I cancel after my trip has started?

Once a trip or expedition has begun, no refunds are issued if the client decides to cancel for any reason, including illness, personal emergencies, changes of mind, or inability to continue the itinerary. This is because all logistics, accommodation, guiding services, and permits are already paid for in advance. We strongly recommend that clients secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip interruption, medical emergencies, and evacuation so they can recover their investment in unforeseen circumstances.

4. Can I receive credit if I cancel my trip before it starts?

In some cases, yes. If a client cancels before the trip begins, and depending on the reason, it may be possible to reschedule or receive a credit note for future use. The decision is made on a case-by-case basis and may require supporting documentation (such as a medical certificate). Please note that credit is valid only for a specific period and may not be transferable to another person or expedition without prior approval.

5. If the weather is bad, can we try the climb the following day?

We do not include contingency days in our standard itineraries, and we do not pre-charge for them. If our guides believe a new attempt is feasible and safe, and the client wishes to try again, we will attempt to organize this at an additional cost to cover extra guiding days, accommodation, food, transportation, and park fees. Availability of guides, refuges, and permits for the next day is not guaranteed, so it is always best to plan a realistic schedule and be prepared for possible weather delays in advance.

These extra costs, will e charged only if the client requests it, and only if the client agrees.

6. What happens if my climbing partner decides to turn back?

If either the client or their climbing partner is deemed unfit to continue, our professional guides will escort both clients back to safety without exception. No refunds are issued in this situation. We strongly recommend adequate altitude acclimatization and good physical preparation prior to your expedition.

7. What happens if I want to modify my itinerary?

We highly recommend sticking to the confirmed itinerary, as all logistics, reservations, and permits are carefully coordinated in advance. Modifying a trip during its execution is complex and can cause logistical issues, especially in remote mountain areas. Changes may require new transportation arrangements, last-minute accommodation bookings, guide reassignments, or re-coordination of park permits. Any such changes will incur additional expenses—including but not limited to guides, vehicles, accommodation, and park entry fees—which must be covered by the client in full at the time of modification. Some changes may not be possible due to safety concerns, weather, or availability.

8. What level of fitness and acclimatization is required for your climbs?

Our expeditions are high-altitude and physically demanding. We recommend at least 3–5 days of prior acclimatization in Ecuador before attempting climbs above 5,000 m. Clients should be in good physical condition and ideally have prior trekking or mountaineering experience.

9. Can you provide personal climbing equipment?

Yes. While group technical gear (ropes, cooking gear, safety equipment) is included, personal gear such as boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet, sleeping bag, and clothing is the responsibility of the client. Most of this can be rented from us or trusted partners in Ecuador.

10. What is the guide-to-client ratio on summit days?

For safety reasons, our maximum ratio is 1 guide for every 2 clients on technical climbs. On less technical treks, the ratio can be higher, depending on the route and conditions. All guides are ASEGUIM-certified (Asociación Ecuatoriana de Guías de Montaña).

11. Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants and must cover high-altitude activities (over 6,000 m), medical evacuation, and trip cancellation/interruption. Proof of insurance is required before departure.

12. What insurance is included in my trip?

Ecuador Eco Adventure includes basic adventure insurance for all clients during the activities provided in our programs. This coverage is designed for emergencies that may occur during treks, climbs, or expeditions and includes:

• First aid on site: Immediate medical attention from trained guides, including oxygen, wound care, and stabilization.
• Rescue team and logistics: Coordination of professional mountain rescue teams if needed, including guide support and evacuation planning.
• Ambulance services: Ground transportation to the nearest medical facility when necessary.

This insurance is intended as a supplemental emergency coverage and does not replace the requirement for personal travel insurance, which must include high-altitude coverage, trip cancellation, and international medical evacuation.