There are places to eat, hotels, hostels, and guides who have spent years going up and down the mountains and helping tourists get the most from the experience.
Most of the guides I have met and worked with are of indigenous heritage. They have lived all their lives in the mountains and seem to know every rock and trail of the mountains.
For example, Patricio (Pato to his friends) first started going up into the mountains with his father when he was 13 years old. He has been a guide for many years and is a true professional. It is a wonder to watch him run up and down the trails with such ease and confidence, while I struggle to find my footing going in any direction. Leading groups of tourists up into the mountains is part of how these men make their living. Respecting and loving the environment is also a key part of what makes them more than just good at their jobs. There is a spiritual connection you feel when you venture into these dangerous, beautiful places. It is what makes Ecuador special.
One of the most famous mountaineers of Ecuador is Ivan Vallejo. He is the leader of our climbing group. He has climbed all the major mountains in the world, including Everest. He is one of the few climbers who have done all these climbs without using supplemental oxygen. Growing up in Ecuador must have helped him with his climbing, but his determination and dedication to his goals is what has made him successful. There are many YouTube videos about him and his climbing. Most are in Spanish, so it’s a good way to learn about mountaineering and work on your Spanish skills, too!
