Ecuador Mountain Running Retreat
Epic Trails. Real Connections. Wild Adventures.
Discover the Andes of Ecuador, One Trail at a Time
Join world-class ultrarunner Hillary Allen for an unforgettable 7-day trail running adventure through the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes. From towering snow-capped volcanoes to breathtaking high-altitude trails, this experience will take you through some of South America's most spectacular landscapes.
Run alongside Hillary, explore remote mountain trails, and discover the incredible diversity of Ecuador. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to learn from her experiences as a professional athlete, gain insights into trail running, resilience, and mental strength, and share meaningful conversations both on and off the trails.
But this journey is about much more than running. It's about discovering new places, embracing the unexpected, experiencing local culture, and connecting with a small group of like-minded adventurers who share a love for the outdoors.
With the support of Wild Explorers' experienced local guides, you'll experience the Andes in an authentic and personal way, with the freedom to enjoy every moment at your own pace.
More than miles, mountains, or performance, this is about the joy of exploration, the friendships we create, and the freedom we find when we run wild.
TRIP OVERVIEW
DATES
May 24 - 30, 2027
DURATION
7 days / 6 nights
GROUP SIZE
12
LEVEL
Easy - Moderate, Recreational Runners
TOTAL MILEAGE
38.5 / 62 km
ELEVATION GAIN
12,631 ft / 3850m
AIRPORT
Quito UIO
Leading Your Retreat
Hillary
Allen
Known as “Hillygoat,” Hillary Allen is a world-class ultrarunner, author, coach, and passionate mountain explorer. Her remarkable journey of resilience and recovery has inspired runners around the world.
Beyond racing, Hillary brings people together through her HillyGoat Run Retreats in Colorado, combining mountain adventures, coaching, mindset workshops, and meaningful connections within the trail running community.
In May 2027, Hillary brings that same spirit of adventure to Ecuador, joining Wild Explorers for an unforgettable journey through the Andes. More than just a running camp, it's an opportunity to explore incredible landscapes, learn from one of the sport's most inspiring athletes, and share the trails with people who love the mountains as much as you do.
DAY BY DAY
7 days
Explore Ecuador Day by Day
DAY
1
Arrival in Quito – Gateway to the Andes
MONDAY, MAY 24
Welcome to Ecuador! Upon arrival at Quito International Airport, our Wild Explorers team will greet you and arrange your transfer to the hotel. Located at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level, Quito is surrounded by spectacular Andean mountains and volcanoes. The first day is dedicated to settling in, relaxing, and adjusting to the altitude.
In the evening, meet Hillary Allen, your local guides, and fellow runners for a welcome briefing and dinner. We'll introduce the week's adventures, discuss altitude acclimatization, and get to know each other before hitting the trails.
DAY
2
Quito City Trails & Cultural Discovery
TUESDAY, MAY 25
Our first running adventure takes place at Parque Metropolitano, one of Quito's largest urban natural reserves. Surrounded by eucalyptus forests and beautiful mountain views, we'll enjoy a relaxed morning trail run designed to help everyone acclimatize to the altitude.
After the run, we'll explore Quito's UNESCO-listed Historic Center, discovering its colonial architecture, vibrant streets, churches, and local culture. Later, we'll visit the famous Middle of the World monument and experience standing on the equator, where the Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet. It's the perfect introduction to Ecuador, combining running, culture, and adventure.
DAY
3
Running Among Volcanoes - Cotopaxi National Park
WEDNESDAY, MAY 26
Today we head south into the Avenue of the Volcanoes to discover Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world's highest active volcanoes. Our trail takes us through vast Andean grasslands, volcanic terrain, and dramatic high-altitude landscapes, with incredible views of the snow-covered Cotopaxi volcano.
Running in this extraordinary environment is an unforgettable experience. We'll adjust the pace to the group, taking time to enjoy the scenery, capture photos, and learn about the unique páramo ecosystem.
Throughout the day, Hillary will share insights from her experiences in mountain running, including training, resilience, and adapting to challenging terrain.
DAY
4
Quilotoa Crater Lake Adventure
THURSDAY, MAY 27
Today's adventure takes us to Quilotoa, one of Ecuador's most spectacular natural wonders.
Quilotoa is a volcanic crater filled with emerald-green water, surrounded by dramatic mountain ridges and traditional Andean communities. We'll follow breathtaking trails along the crater rim, enjoying constantly changing views of the lake and surrounding valleys. The combination of altitude, rugged terrain, and incredible scenery creates a memorable mountain running experience.
After our run, we'll immerse ourselves in the traditional Andean hacienda lifestyle. We'll explore the farm, meet the animals of the Ecuadorian highlands, and enjoy a hands-on cheese-making experience using traditional methods. It's a unique opportunity to slow down, connect with local traditions, and experience the authentic rural life of the Andes.
DAY
5
Running Between Mountains and Waterfalls Cloud Forest Trails & Adventure
FRIDAY, MAY 28
Welcome to Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador's adventure capital, nestled between the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. Today we'll discover a completely different side of Ecuador. Leaving the high-altitude páramo behind, we'll explore lush green mountains, cloud forests, waterfalls, and spectacular trails overlooking the Pastaza River valley.
Our trail run will take us through the beautiful surroundings of Baños, offering exciting terrain, impressive viewpoints, and plenty of opportunities to experience Ecuador's incredible biodiversity.
After the run, we'll have time to explore the town, discover its impressive waterfalls, and unwind in the famous natural hot springs, fed by geothermal waters from the nearby Tungurahua volcano. Surrounded by lush mountains, these thermal baths offer the perfect opportunity to relax tired muscles and recharge after a day on the trails. It's a day that perfectly combines mountain adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation.
DAY
6
Running Beneath Tungurahua Volcanoe & The Swing at the End of the World
SATURDAY, MAY 29
We'll start the morning with an unforgettable trail run along the lush slopes of Tungurahua, one of Ecuador's most iconic active volcanoes. Surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes, cloud forests, and breathtaking views of Baños. Along the way, we'll visit the amous Swing at the End of the World (Casa del Árbol), perched high above the valley with spectacular views of Tungurahua. For those feeling adventurous, it's a chance to swing out over the mountains and experience one of Ecuador's most iconic attractions. After our morning adventure, we'll begin the scenic journey back to Quito, traveling through the spectacular Avenue of the Volcanoes. In the evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner with Hillary and the Wild Explorers team, celebrating a week of incredible trails, shared adventures, and new friendships.
DAY
7
Last Adventure in the Andes
Rucu Pichincha & Departure
SUNDAY, MAY 30
For our final day, we'll have the opportunity to experience one of Quito's most iconic mountain environments: Rucu Pichincha. Rising above Ecuador's capital, this volcanic mountain offers breathtaking views of the city, surrounding valleys, and distant Andean peaks. We'll enjoy a final mountain run and hike in this spectacular setting, celebrating the end of an unforgettable week of adventure.
Afterward, private transfers will be arranged to Quito International Airport for your onward journey.
The adventure may end here, but the connections and memories will last far beyond the finish line.
Important Departure Information: To fully enjoy our final mountain adventure, we recommend arranging a late check-out with your hotel and booking your departure flight for 6:00 PM or later. This will allow enough time to return from the mountains, freshen up, and transfer to the airport without rushing.
Accommodation:
or similar ·
Breakfast
Meals:
THROUGH THE LENS
Every mile looks
like this.
FROM PAST RUNNERS
Those who've been there,
say it best.
"
This trip was so special and so much more than just a running camp. Every detail from where we stayed, the communities that joined us, the routes we explored was completely magical. The training was still excellent and it felt like adventuring with friends rather than a tour group. I can’t wait to start planning next year!
"
The trip reignited my love for running. Nine days with a group of total strangers, led by Wild Ecuador team, turned into something far bigger than a trail running trip. As a hobby trail runner — not a racer — I arrived a little intimidated. Many in the group were seasoned athletes, and I quietly wondered if I’d be the slow one. But from day one it was clear: this wasn’t about ego or pace. The guides supported every level, people spread out naturally on the trails, and there was always space to move slower or faster when needed. What stood out most were the small moments — the laughs, the encouragement, the conversations over meals. Wild Explorers Team have a gift for attracting kind, honest, deeply caring humans. In just nine days, a real community formed. Our WhatsApp group is still active, and I still follow everyone’s running journeys. This trip wasn’t just about running. It was about moving and learning from Andean communities. Visiting women’s collectives and supporting their work (I use my wooden spoon daily) gave me a tangible connection to the people and the challenges they navigate. I left feeling not just physically stretched, but culturally expanded. I’ll admit — I was slightly nervous about being one of the few or potentially only female on the trip. Instead, I found strength, support, and friendships I didn’t expect. By the end, I told the team: “I don’t like people, but I like you people.” And I meant it. Most unexpectedly, the trip reignited my love for running. I now have a coach and I’m training for my first-ever trail race — something I never would have imagined before Ecuador. Grateful for the miles, the mountains, and the people.
"
I had the pleasure of participating in a running retreat with Elyse Kopecky and Wild Explorers (Jota and Cari) in the Galápagos Islands. It was an amazing trip that was well planned from running, food accommodations and extracurricular activities to a little bit of down time. What a wonderful group of likeminded people. Hopefully there is another trip in my future to consider. Thanks to Elyse, Jota and Cari for some wonderful memories.
WHAT'S COVERED
Everything planned.
You just run.
INCLUDED
— 7 days / 6 nights in carefully selected hotels, cozy lodges, and charming haciendas.
— Mountain routes and trail running experiences across Ecuador’s most iconic landscapes
— Meals according to the itinerary
— All transfers including airport pick-up and drop-off from Quito UIO
— Private luggage transport between all locations throughout the itinerary
— Expert local guides and Wild Explorers staff companion at all times
— All entrance and activity fees for a seamless, worry-free experience
NOT INCLUDED
x International flights to/from Ecuador
x Meals and snacks beyond what is specified in the itinerary
x Alcoholic beverages unless otherwise specified
x Visa fees (if needed)
x Extra accommodation in Quito before or after the tour
x Personal gear and trail running equipment
x All participants must hold valid personal travel insurance that covers outdoor and adventure activities. Your policy should include, at minimum: medical and accident coverage, emergency evacuation and mountain rescue, repatriation, trip cancellation, and personal liability.
Wild Explorers does not provide insurance on behalf of participants. It is your responsibility to ensure your coverage is active and appropriate for the nature of the trip before your departure date.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Everything you need
to know before you go.
What if I'm not used to altitude?
+
Altitude is not something you need to fear, but it is something you should respect. We strongly recommend arriving in Quito at least two days before the retreat begins. The structure of the camp is intentionally progressive — elevation and distances increase gradually, allowing your body to acclimatize step by step in a safe and controlled way.
What if I'm the slowest in the group?
+
You don't need to worry about pace. We operate with three professional guides for the group, which allows us to divide participants according to their level each day. Stronger runners can move ahead at their rhythm, while others maintain a steady and comfortable pace. No one is left behind or pressured to run beyond their limits.
Who can join this running retreat?
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This retreat is for active people who love running and outdoor adventures. You don't have to be an elite runner, just ready to run, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. Check the daily distances and elevation gain to make sure the retreat is a good fit for your fitness level.
What should I bring?
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Mandatory: trail running backpack (1L+ water capacity), hydration system, personal nutrition/gels, waterproof jacket, two pairs of trail shoes, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, long tights, long sleeve technical shirt, insulated down jacket, GPS watch, thermal emergency blanket. Highly recommended: trail running poles, light gloves, buff, electrolyte tablets, headlamp. Conditions in the Andes shift quickly — travel light, pack smart.
How should I prepare for running at high altitude?
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Running at high altitude is a unique and rewarding experience, but it can feel more challenging than running at sea level. We recommend arriving with a solid base of running fitness, incorporating hills and elevation gain into your training, and focusing on endurance rather than speed.
There's no need to train at altitude beforehand. Our itinerary is designed to allow for gradual acclimatization, and we'll adjust the pace to help everyone feel comfortable as we explore the Ecuadorian Andes.
Staying well-hydrated, getting enough rest, and listening to your body are especially important. Our experienced local guides and Hillary Allen will be there to support you throughout the adventure.
Remember, this retreat isn't about running fast or competing. It's about challenging yourself, embracing the mountains, and enjoying the experience together.
Do I need to be an experienced runner?
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No. This trip is designed for active travelers who enjoy running and exploring outdoors.