Animals in the Yasuni Amazon

Yasuni Biodiversity

The Yasuni Rainforest is located in the Amazon basin, which is known for its unparalleled biodiversity. It is estimated that the Yasuni Rainforest is home to an astonishing array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. It is estimated that there are around 2,300 species of trees in the Yasuni Rainforest, making it one of the most tree-diverse places on the planet.

It is estimated that the Yasuni rainforest is home to over 500 species of fish, 600 species of birds, 200 species of mammals, and more than 100,000 species of insects, among others. Iconic and endangered species such as jaguars, harpy eagles, giant otters, and pink river dolphins are found in the Yasuni Rainforest.

One of the reasons for the high biodiversity in the Yasuni is its unique geography. The rainforest encompasses a wide range of habitats, including lowland rainforest, flooded forest, swamps, and rivers, which provide diverse niches for a wide array of species to thrive. The region’s complex network of rivers and waterways also creates important ecological corridors, allowing for the movement of species and gene flow, which helps to maintain genetic diversity within populations.

Another factor contributing to the biodiversity of Yasuni is its long evolutionary history. The Amazon rainforest, including the Yasuni area, has been relatively stable geologically and climatically for millions of years, providing a stable environment for species to evolve and diversify over time.

The indigenous people who have lived in the Yasuni Rainforest for thousands of years have also played a crucial role in shaping its biodiversity. They have developed traditional knowledge and practices that promote sustainable resource management, including selective hunting, fishing, and cultivation techniques, which have helped to maintain the delicate balance of the forest ecosystem.

Animals in the Yasuni Amazon

Check out our Yasuni Amazon Tours and other expeditions into the Ecuadorian Amazon

However, the Yasuni Rainforest and its incredible biodiversity are facing severe threats from human activities, such as logging, mining, oil extraction, climate change and infrastructure development. These activities result in habitat destruction, pollution, and fragmentation, which threaten the survival of many species and disrupt the delicate ecological balance of the forest.

Conservation efforts in Yasuni are therefore of paramount importance. The Ecuadorian government, along with national and international conservation organizations, is working to protect and conserve the Yasuni Rainforest. This includes creating protected areas, implementing sustainable management practices, and promoting community-based conservation initiatives that involve local indigenous communities in decision-making processes.

Preserving the biodiversity of the Yasuni Rainforest is not only crucial for its ecological significance, but also for its cultural, social, and economic value. The forest provides important ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, climate regulation, pollination, and water purification, which benefit not only local communities but also the global community. Furthermore, the Yasuni Rainforest is a living laboratory for scientific research, providing insights into the complexities of tropical ecosystems and the processes that shape biodiversity.

In conclusion, the Yasuni Rainforest in Ecuador is a true treasure of biodiversity, hosting an unparalleled richness of plant and animal species. Its conservation is of utmost importance to ensure the survival of unique and fragile ecosystems, protect endangered species, preserve cultural heritage, and maintain critical ecosystem services that benefit humanity as a whole.

Posted by jake Amazon

“Is Mount Chimborazo higher than everest?” and other Frequently Asked Questions.

Chimborazo is not actually higher than Everest. Mount Everest, located in the Himalayas, is currently recognized as the highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet) above sea level.

However, if we consider the distance from the center of the Earth rather than just the elevation above sea level, then Chimborazo is actually the farthest point from the center of the Earth. This is due to the fact that the Earth bulges at the equator, making mountains near the equator farther away from the center of the Earth than those located closer to the poles.

Chimborazo is located near the equator, and its summit is only 1.5 degrees south of the equator, which means it is much closer to the Earth’s center than other high mountains like Everest. In fact, Chimborazo’s summit is approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) farther from the Earth’s center than Everest’s summit, despite being almost 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) lower in elevation.

So, while Chimborazo is not actually higher than Everest in terms of elevation above sea level, it is considered the mountain that is farthest from the center of the Earth, making it a unique and fascinating natural wonder.

chimborazo refuge basecamp

The summit of the Chimborazo Stratovolcano

Chimborazo is a stratovolcano located in the Andes mountain range of Ecuador, standing at an elevation of 6,263 meters (20,548 feet) above sea level. It is the highest mountain in Ecuador and the highest peak near the equator. The Chimborazo climb is a popular mountaineering activity for experienced climbers due to its technical difficulty, high altitude, and unpredictable weather conditions.

The Chimborazo climb typically takes several days and involves camping at high altitudes to acclimatize to the thinner air. The climb itself involves navigating steep slopes and rocky terrain while dealing with freezing temperatures and strong winds. Climbers must be physically fit and have experience in high-altitude mountaineering to attempt Chimborazo.

The summit of Chimborazo offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Andes mountains, including many other high peaks in Ecuador. On a clear day, climbers can see as far as the Pacific Ocean from the summit. The Chimborazo summit is marked by a small chapel built in honor of Saint Bernard, the patron saint of mountaineers.

Overall, the Chimborazo climb is a challenging and rewarding experience for those who are up to the task. It requires preparation, experience, and proper equipment to safely reach the summit, but the views and sense of accomplishment are truly unforgettable.

How technical is climbing Chimborazo?

Chimborazo is a technical climb that requires a high degree of skill and experience in mountaineering. Climbers attempting Chimborazo must be physically fit and have previous experience in high-altitude mountaineering, as well as knowledge of technical climbing techniques.

The climb involves navigating steep slopes, glaciers, and rocky terrain, often in icy and unpredictable weather conditions. Climbers must use technical equipment such as ice axes, crampons, and ropes to ascend and descend the mountain safely.

Additionally, the high altitude of Chimborazo can pose a significant challenge to climbers. Altitude sickness is a real concern, and climbers must take the time to acclimatize to the thin air before attempting to reach the summit.

Overall, Chimborazo is a challenging and technical climb that requires a high degree of skill and experience. It is not recommended for inexperienced or novice climbers, and those attempting the climb should do so with an experienced guide and the proper equipment.

an indigenous guide corrals the horses on a country rode towards Chimborazo

Reaching the summit Vintimilla and Whymper of Chimborazo

Chimborazo has several routes that can be taken to reach its summit, including the Vintimilla and Whymper routes.

The Vintimilla route is the most direct and least technical route to the summit of Chimborazo. It begins at the Hermanos Carrel mountain hut, located at an altitude of 4,800 meters (15,750 feet) above sea level. The route follows a steep path that ascends the mountain’s west face, passing through rocky terrain and a glacier before reaching the summit.

The Whymper route, named after British mountaineer Edward Whymper, is a more technical and challenging route to the summit of Chimborazo. It begins at the Whymper mountain hut, located at an altitude of 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level. The route follows the mountain’s southwest ridge, passing through steep and exposed terrain before reaching the summit.

Both the Vintimilla and Whymper routes require a high degree of skill and experience in mountaineering, as well as proper equipment such as ice axes, crampons, and ropes. Climbers attempting these routes must also be prepared for the high altitude and unpredictable weather conditions that are common on Chimborazo.

Overall, the Vintimilla and Whymper routes are both challenging and rewarding climbs that offer stunning views and a sense of accomplishment for those who are up to the task. Climbers attempting either of these routes should do so with an experienced guide and the proper equipment.

Posted by jake mountain climbing
Watch Active Cotopaxi Erupt

How to safely watch the Cotopaxi volcano’s eruptions

Cotopaxi is an active volcano that is currently erupting in the Andes Mountains of central Ecuador. It is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) south of the capital city of Quito. Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, with an elevation of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level, making it one of the most attractive climbs in South America. However, the extremely levels of volcanic activity in late 2022 and early 2023 means the volcano will be officially closed to mountain climbers for at least the next two years for safety reasons.

Nevertheless, while the volcano is off limits to mountain climbers (who are recommended to climb Mount Chimborazo or Mount Carihuairazo) visitors can still watch the volcanic activity from a safe distance inside Cotopaxi National Park. The park rangers guarding the entrance to Cotopaxi National Park are constantly monitoring the volcanic activity with seismologists, and will refuse entry if the volcano becomes dangerously active. When the volcano is only smoking, however, visitors have often arrived to the mountain refuge as well as various lookouts below.

How to get to the Cotopaxi refuge by car:

  1. Start from Quito: The starting point for most visitors is the city of Quito, which is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Cotopaxi.
  2. Take the Pan-American Highway: From Quito, head south on the Pan-American Highway, which is the main road that runs through Ecuador.
  3. Drive to Latacunga: Continue on the highway until you reach Latacunga, a city located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) south of Quito.
  4. Take the road to Machachi: In Latacunga, take the road that leads to the town of Machachi, which is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Latacunga.
  5. Turn onto the road to Cotopaxi National Park: From Machachi, turn onto the road that leads to Cotopaxi National Park. This road will take you through the town of Papallacta and eventually up to the park entrance.
  6. Drive to the refuge: From the park entrance, continue driving up the road to the Cotopaxi refuge, which is located at an elevation of 4,800 meters (15,744 feet) above sea level.

Note: it’s important to consider that the road to the refuge can be in poor condition and might not be accessible during inclement weather, so it’s recommended to check the road conditions before starting your journey. Also, some areas around Cotopaxi can only be accessed with a 4×4 vehicle.

Posted by jake mountain climbing
climbing chimborazo

Precautions When Climbing at High-Altitude

When climbing at high altitude in Ecuador, it is important to take several precautions to ensure a safe and successful climb.

First, it is essential to acclimatize properly before attempting to climb any of the high-altitude peaks in Ecuador, such as Mount Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, and Cayambe. This can be done by gradually increasing the altitude at which you spend your time and by taking rest days at lower elevations. Climbing high-altitude peaks too quickly can lead to altitude sickness, which can be fatal if left untreated.

It is also crucial to be in good physical condition before attempting to climb any of these peaks. High altitude climbing requires a significant amount of exertion, and it is important to be able to handle the physical demands of the climb.

Another important precaution is to make sure that you have the proper equipment and clothing for the climb. This includes warm clothing and layers, waterproof gear, a good pair of hiking boots, and a quality climbing helmet. Additionally, it is important to make sure that you have enough food and water to last the entire climb, as well as any emergency supplies that you may need in case of an accident or injury.

The weather is also important to take into account: Climbing in Ecuador can be unpredictable, and it is important to be prepared for any type of weather. This includes having the proper gear for cold, wet, and windy conditions, as well as the ability to quickly adjust to changing weather conditions.

The descent when climbing back down from the peak of Mount Chimborazo

In addition to these precautions, it is also important to be aware of the risks associated with high-altitude climbing, and to have a plan in case of an emergency. This includes having a good understanding of the mountain and the route, as well as knowing how to use any equipment or supplies that you may have with you.

Finally, it is important to have a good guide or experienced climbing partner. High-altitude climbing can be dangerous, and having someone who is experienced and knowledgeable about the mountain, the route, and the conditions can greatly increase your chances of a safe and successful climb.

In conclusion, climbing at high-altitude in Ecuador can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By taking the proper precautions, such as acclimatizing properly, being in good physical condition, having the right equipment and clothing, being prepared for the weather, being aware of the risks, having a plan in case of an emergency, and having a good guide or climbing partner, you can greatly increase your chances of a safe and successful climb.

Posted by jake mountain climbing
tourism and covid image

Tourism in Ecuador after the Covid-19 Pandemic

Ecuador, known for its diverse culture, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty, has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, as the world begins to recover and vaccines become more widely available, tourism in Ecuador is starting to pick up again.

One of the biggest draws for tourists in Ecuador is its natural beauty. From the lush Amazon rainforest to the stunning Galapagos Islands, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to explore. As travel restrictions ease, more and more visitors are flocking to Ecuador to experience its natural wonders.

Another popular attraction in Ecuador is its rich culture and history. The country is home to a number of indigenous communities, each with their own unique customs and traditions. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and learn about the country’s rich history through its museums and cultural centers.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Ecuador’s tourism industry is beginning to recover. Hotels, restaurants, and tour operators are taking steps to ensure the safety of their guests, and many are offering special deals and discounts to attract visitors.

As the world recovers from the pandemic, Ecuador is an excellent destination for tourists looking for a unique and memorable experience. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people, Ecuador is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore a new and exciting place.

It’s important to note that travelers should check the current situation, travel restrictions and regulations before planning to travel and make sure they have all necessary documents, including a negative COVID-19 test result.

In conclusion, Ecuador is ready to welcome tourists again, and with its natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people, it’s a great destination for those looking for an exciting and unique experience. With safety measures in place and discounts and deals available, now is the perfect time to plan a trip to Ecuador and discover all that this amazing country has to offer.

Posted by jake Ecuador Eco Adventure News

Cotopaxi National Park Closed

The Geophysical Institute of Ecuador (IG) issued an alert for a cloud of gases, steam and little ash over the crater of the Cotopaxi volcano.

The alert was issued this Thursday, November 24, 2022, through Twitter, where it details that the cloud of steam, gases and low ash content reaches a level of 800 meters above the level of the crater.
More about gases

The direction of the cloud is to the northeast. However, there is no possibility of ash fall in areas surrounding the volcano.

The institution’s report, dated November 22, points out that since the night of October 21, a low-frequency tremor signal was recorded associated with an emission of gases and ash that produced a moderate fall of this material on the northern flank of the volcano, including the José Rivas Refuge.

The emission has been almost continuous ever since, with columns reaching up to 2 kilometers above crater level.

The parameters monitored by the IG-EPN show that the Cotopaxi volcano still has low internal activity, marked by a seismicity slightly above the reference level since 2015.

It is explained that the volcanic gases, the values ​​remain above the referential level after the 2015 eruption and have a magmatic origin. The crater temperature measurements show values ​​similar to those after 2015. Spanish source El Comercio.

Posted by jake mountain climbing
Chimborazo Basecamp

Things to Know Before Climbing Chimborazo

Here at Ecuador Eco Adventure, we specialize in bringing people to some of the wildest places on planet Earth. Ecuador is a hot-bed for other-worldly terrain thanks to its location on the Equator, extreme altitudes, and miles of abandoned coastline. It’s considered one of 17 “megadiverse” countries in the entire world. When visiting a country like Ecuador where sublime natural features beckon from every direction, it is in human nature to heed an internal call to conquer, whether that be a peak, a valley, or anything in between. That’s where we come in. Not only are we here to issue clichés like “it’s not going to be easy but it’s going to be worth it”, we also take pride in creating a fun atmosphere, keeping our customers safe, and guiding visitors to the best experiences possible. Since we are based in Riobamba, we find ourselves favoring our summit tours of Chimborazo, the volcano that looms over our hometown. While anyone can enroll in a climb of Chimborazo, we understand a first attempt (or even a fifth or twentieth) at mountaineering can sometimes be intimidating, and because of that we partnered again with our friends at AllTheRooms to break down some things to know.

Stats About Chimborazo

Approximately a three-and-a-half hour drive from the capital of Quito and four-and-a-half hours north of the popular city of Cuenca stands Chimborazo the tallest point in Ecuador. That bragging point is thanks to its summit that stands 6,263 meters, or 20,548 feet, above sea level. While it may be about 9,000 feet short of Everest, because Chimborazo is located on the bulge of the equator, it is actually the closest place on the planet to the moon and the farthest point from the Earth’s core. It is the 15th tallest volcano in the world, but don’t worry, unlike its popular Ecuadorian counterpart, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo is inactive and will not erupt again. Its first successful summit occurred on January 4, 1880, by an Englishman named Edward Whymper.

Preparations

While we encourage any able-bodied, fit person to give the climb a try, it is a physically demanding push to the top. Because of that we highly recommend training and acclimatizing. For those who don’t know, acclimatizing is essentially spending significant time exerting physical energy at altitudes before attempting a mountaineering attempt. To do this we recommend doing other hikes in the area that will require significant exertion and/or climbing other mountains that may not be as tall as Chimborazo, but will at least mirror the steep trek up the face of a peak. As for exercise to focus on prior to arriving in Ecuador, strong legs and a sturdy core will do some good but the best thing would be to have the best cardiovascular health and strength possible before the attempt.

Altitude Sickness and Symptoms

Every portion of the volcano will expose climbers to extreme altitude, which will be strenuous on nearly everyone’s body. Altitude sickness is always a threat and needs to be treated seriously. While the sickness can strike anytime our guides are experts at recognizing symptoms and helping those who need it. It is important to remember that all bodies react differently to altitude; some of the most athletic of people will struggle mightily, while others will not experience as much difficulty. It is common, and likely will happen, that while hiking a climber will feel shortness of breath, a rapid heart rate, and exhaustion. However, once symptoms like chest pain, debilitating headaches, and coughing-up fluid begin, it may be time to call it a day. Safety is a priority to even the most hardened of climbers, it is important to know your body. Also remember due to weather, ice conditions, and altitude illnesses, fewer than 50% of summit attempts on Chimborazo are successful, there is no shame in admiring the view from not quite the top.

Ecuador Eco Adventures Tours

At Ecuador Eco Adventures we are always ready to guide people on a once in a lifetime trek up Mount Chimborazo. Our Chimborazo climb is meant for everyone wanting to give it a try because unlike many other extreme altitude mountains, Chimborazo requires minimal technical mountaineering skill and it is affordable, when realizing the average cost of an Everest expedition is around $35,000. A climb of this magnitude can be scary and it will be hard but our guides are the best in the business. Our team of indigenous guides are all certified by multiple climbing and governmental agencies to ensure our guests’ safety and enjoyment. For those wanting to be ready for the summit, check out our acclimatizing tour, or for those keen on a different path we offer a horseback tour around Chimborazo. Happy climbing!

Author: Zack Davisson
Zack is a recovering technical recruiter who traded in his suit and tie in Silicon Valley for salsa music and a passion for writing in Medellin, Colombia. When not writing for AllTheRooms you can find Zack with his nose in a book, puttering around nature, or getting ultra-competitive while watching Jeopardy.

Posted by jake Ecuador Eco Adventure News mountain climbing

Ecuador Eco Adventure in Nat Geo, Mountain Planet, and the Rough Guide to Ecuador & The Galapagos Islands

For 12 years, Wlady and Jake have been running Ecuador Eco Adventure, a sustainible ecotourism operator based in Riobamba, the trekking and climbing capital of Ecuador’s Andes mountains.

Currently, Ecuador Eco Adventure is taking the highest number of organized climbing tours to the summit of Chimborazo–Ecuador’s highest mountain–and recently partnered with Mountain Planet the largest guiding and mountaineering community in the world, where some of our tours are featured. We were also recommended again in National Geographic for the Condor Trek in Ecuador in an article earlier this year on January 31st, 2018–a few years after National Geographic Adventure first recommended Ecuador Eco Adventure for the Condor Trek in their 2014 Adventure Bucketlist.

Ecuador Eco Adventure in the Rough Guide to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands:

Here’s the extract about Ecuador Eco Adventure in the newest addition of the Rough Guide:

If you’re considering summiting Chimborazo, bear in mind that it’s a challenging climb that requires acclimatization, a good level of physical fitness, a specialist guide, technical equipment and permits. The ascent takes 7-10 hours, usually starting around 10pm and arriving at the summit in the early morning. The descent takes 3-4 hours. The climb is possible year-round, but the best months are December-January. February-April brings rain and heavy snowfall; by June you can expect high winds, clear sky, and good snow.

Climbers must be accompanied by an accredited, specialized guide and be registered in the Biodiversity Information System (SIB), which was introduced in 2015 to log the identities of all climbers on glaciated mountains. Any reputable agency will take care of this formality. Agencies all over the country offer the Chimborazo climb, but make sure you choose a reputable company, because it can be dangerous.

A recommended agency in Riobamba is Ecuador Eco Adventure (tel. 9/9831-1282, www.ecuadorecoadventure.com, [email protected]) who offer a 2-day Chimborazo climb for those already acclimatized ($400 1 person, $420 for 2 people), or 4-day tours including acclimatization hikes ($495 for 1 person, $375 for 2).

Carihuairazo (5,020 meters) is usually climbed as practice for scaling its taller neighbor, with a new refuge at 4,600 meters as the base. Ecuador Eco Adventure offer the climb for $375 for 1 person, or $250 for 2 people. Also available is a 5-day Carihuairazo & Chimborazo tour ($860 for 1 person, $675 for 2), plus the following other combinations: El Altar & Chimborazo (5 days, $550 for 1 person, $430 for 2); and Cotopaxi & Chimborazo (5 days, $960 1 person, $750 2 people). Prices include a night in Riobamba the night before departure, all equipment, permits, accommodation and most meals.

Posted by jake Ecuador Eco Adventure News

Riobamba Base Camp Now Open

Over the last several months Ecuador Eco Adventure has been busy constructing the Riobamba Base Camp–a backpacker hostel in Riobamba designed exlusively for hikers and climbers in Riobamba, the trekking and climbing capital of Ecuador.

Until now, the city of Riobamba did not have a single backpacker hostel.

Surprising right?

The trekking and climbing capital of Ecuador did not have a single backpacker hostel…

Instead, travelers to this beautiful colonial city in the Valley of the Volcanoes had to stay in cheap hotels–or soulless expensive ones–before and after they make a summit attempt on Chimborazo, or go hiking in Sangay National Park.

We have spent a lot of thought and effort and soul in making the Riobamba Base Camp the perfect place for clibmers and trekkers when visiting the city of Riobamba.

Check out the Riobamba Base Camp Blog to see who our first visitors were and read abou their summit attempts of Chimborazo.

Posted by jake mountain climbing

Ecuador National Park Permits

May has been a great month for Ecuador Eco Adventure because Trip Advisor awarded us with the 2018 Excellence Certificate due to dozens of reviews for Ecuador climbing expeditions. This month we were also granted permissions to visit Ecuador’s most stunning national parks in the Andes:

Cotopaxi National Park
In this park we can train and acclimatise to the altitude on Volcano Ruminñahui and Sincholahua with our clients who want to Climb Cotopaxi.

Cayambe – Coca National Park
Volcano Cayambe, at 5790 meters tall, is a great beginner mountain for people that want to learn how to climb and adapt, train, and climatize for Ecuador’s highest mountain Chimborazo.

Sangay National Park
This is Ecuador’s biggest national park and was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1983 due to its unique wildlife and paramo wetlands. It is also home to the Tungarahua and Sangay volcanoes as well as the most stunning treks in the Andes mountains such as the El Altar Trek and its multicolored lagoons and crater lakes.

Antisana Ecological Reserve
The world famous “Condor Trek in Ecuador” for which Ecuador Eco Adventure was recommended in the National Geographic Adventure Bucketlist is inside this Antisana Ecological Reserve. The beautiful Antisana Volcano is also located here standing at 5700 mts tall.

Reserva de Produccion Faunistica Chimborazo
Riobamba, the trekking and climbing capital of Ecuador, below the Chimborazo volcano, makes our Hostel Riobamba Base Camp the perfect place to start trekking and climbing in Ecuador. This park is not only home to Chimborazo, but his beautiful smaller brother Carihuairazo as well.

Posted by jake Ecuador Eco Adventure News mountain climbing