Climbing and Hiking in Ecuador

"Though one of the smallest countries in South America, Ecuador offers an incredible diversity of scenery, wildlife, and people. The mountaineer and adventurous traveller have a choice of the ice-clad Andes, tropical rainforest, mountain trails leading to Inca ruins, and quiet beaches; all these attractions lie within a day's journey of Quito, the capital city. This accessibility makes Ecuador an attractive destination for climbers and hikers of all abilities, and avoids the long approaches and expedition planning often necessary in other high mountain ranges." --