Volunteer

Tom at Andean Trails offered great advice for our trip to Ecuador and would most definitely use again and recommend. We had such a variety of locations near Quito to choose from Andean Trails, after they took the time to understand our priorities and make recommendations. First, we had a couple of days at a really lovely hotel in Quito that was perfect for our needs and sightseeing around the old town before being collected for our stay in the Cloud Forest. All arrangements made for us were seamless and hassle free, leaving us to get on with making the most of our time. The highlight was our stay at El Monte in Mindo which was just perfect - fab location with arrival by small cable car, sleeping to the sound of the river, 1st class local guides, such tasty and well made food, all perfect and so glad we stayed on for the extra day. The host at El Monte, Tom, was so welcoming and showed us the camera trap footage for the wildlife we didn't get a glimpse of and was great fun tracking monkeys with him and his wife around the lodge. We had freedom to do our own walks, join a small group, explore with the guide or just chill. Fascinated the humming birds, Cock-of-the-Rock and variety of toucans (even if not a birder) and loved the ziplining. Wouldn't have changed a thing about our stay and would happily return!! We returned to another hotel in Quito to get another perspective, which again was really worth it to get the most out of our trip. We did so much but was so sad that it all went so quickly.

The food and accommodation were really excellent, probably even better than expected. Guide (Pablo) absolutely exceptional- incredible knowledge. The highlight was probably going to high camp (5300) on Chimborazo.

We tried to benefit local people by buying things. We wanted to go to the Andes and when we searched options, we thought Andean Trails had the best options and seemed to specialise in the Andes.