Ecuador
Ecuador
We're scouting a new destination for 2024!
We're scouting a new destination for 2024!
OVERVIEW
WHAT TO EXPECT
FAQ
Experience Life at the Equator!
Get ready to make your way through the middle of the world on foot as we explore Ecuador, a small South American country with fascinating history, wildly diverse landscapes and sights that are second to none.
You will test your lungs as we follow in the footsteps of the Incas, be delighted by the deep greens and array of other colors in the Amazon Rainforest and hopefully get joyful glimpses of the unique wildlife local to the Galapagos Islands like the giant land tortoises and blue-footed boobies.
From the Amazon to the Andes and the stunning natural beauty of the nearby Islands, this country is asking to be explored and we can't wait to show you around!
While much is still in the air, some items stay the same for all Global Adventures:
- 6+ trail runs and hikes (7-12K)
- Daily afternoon activities
- Hotels, meals, and local transport included!
- International flight not included
- Covid-19 vaccination not required
- Tentative Trip 1: March 30 - April 6, 2024
- Tentative Trip 2: Nov 23 - Dec 1, 2024
- 7 day all-inclusive trip in Ecuador
- Option to add on a 4 day Galapagos experience
We love to listen to you!
If there are must-sees and do's on your Ecuador list - please let us know.
"...you're guaranteed to leave with tired legs and a full heart."
- 2022 Global Adventurer
Meet Your Host Country: Ecuador
Known for its diverse landscapes, colorful culture, and endless Spring on the equator, Ecuador is a South American country that should be added to your bucket list. It is home to many notable points of interest from the towering Andes Mountains that surround the sprawling capital city of Quito to the lush Amazon Rainforest and the active Cotopaxi volcano!
There is no shortage of impressive places to explore here and with great weather year-round, the trails will be temperate and perfect for trekking.
CAPITAL
Quito
LANGUAGE
Spanish
CURRENCY
US Dollar
WEATHER
55 °F (mountains) 85 °F (rainforest)
LANDSCAPE
Andean peaks and Amazonian rainforest
KNOWN FOR
Abundant biodiversity
Color & Tradition in the Andes
The Andean valley that surrounds Quito is home to important indigenous cultures and historic sites, such as the Inca Trail and Cochasquí archaeological ruins. From pyramids to craft markets, there is much to discover in Ecuador.
Our trek through the Andes will allow us to soak in this rich history and witness indigenous traditions first-hand.
The Legacy of the Galapagos
The many islands of the Galapagos have become famous for their complex and evolving ecosystem of turtles, blue-footed boobies, seals, iguana, and more. Located miles off the Ecuadorian coast, the islands include a prolific Marine Reserve that is now a recognized Natural Heritage Site.
The Galapagos are best experienced in smaller groups, so we plan to offer these islands as an optional 4 day add-on for our nature lovers!
The Global Adventures Experience
The Best Dang Team On The Planet
Tireless travel directors, local guides, trail runners, photography gurus, and staff medics...we're all here to make your experience one for the ages.
Adventures Built for YOU.
Group travel can be daunting, so we're proud to offer community-first adventures with smaller group sizes and inclusive leadership.
Whether you're flying solo or bringing your BFFs, there's a place here for everyone.
All of The Fun, None of The Work
We've done the hard parts for you. Once you book your trip, our expert team handles all the details. From mapping out scenic runs to finding the comfiest beds and local grub.
Plus, we take care of that boring stuff like local transportation and even laundry.
All that's left is to book your flight and call in sick from work ;)
What to Expect from Your Global Adventure
While our team is still scouting this location, the info below will give you insight on how a Global Adventure works from booking to farewells.
Quick Planning Guide
- Keep an eye out for emails from us the month before your trip - we'll send packing info, weather updates, and a group WhatsApp chat to get acquainted!
- Weather will vary from the mountains to the jungle, so pack layers.
- You'll be able to use US dollars.
- Max 45 people per trip
Before You Arrive
What to Expect From Us
After registration, you'll receive a welcome email with information to get ready for your Global Adventure! After this initial email, you can expect to hear from us regularly starting about 3 months before with further trip details, a packing list, and more!
Keep an eye on your mailbox - we'll also send you a welcome packet one month before your trip.
Your Pre-Trip Homework
boOK YOUR FLIGHT
Flights or other transportation to our host country are not included in the trip cost. You'll want to book these well in advance to get the best prices.
GET COVERED
We recommend having travel insurance to keep you protected while you're out enjoying each day. Companies like Safety Wing offer flexible coverage for your trip.
While we no longer require participants to be vaccinated, we encourage you to understand the travel requirements of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
COMPLETE YOUR TRAVELER PROFILE
Once registered, you'll have a traveler profile with us. Leading up to the trip, we will ask you to complete this profile with information about your flights, dietary needs, etc. This information is private to our event directors and is used to coordinate nitty-gritty trip logistics.
Want to chat with other Global Adventures runners?
Join our community of travelers on Facebook!
Daily Life on a Global Adventure
While each adventure is unique, the info below captures the daily schedule of a typical Global Adventure.
MORNING Run (~7:00 am)
Ok, we know you're on vacation, but starting the day early means we get to show you so much more. You didn't think we'd be sleeping on this trip...right?
On most trips, we'll have breakfast at the hotel before departing for a 7-12K trail run. Pack your day bag (included as trip swag!) with a fresh outfit and an activity for the journey.
After the race we'll regroup to shower (when available) and refuel with lunch.
AFTERNOON activity (~11:00 AM)
After our run, each day brings something new! We'll have lunch and then head out for a range of activities depending on your Global Adventure.
Active Adrenaline - These trips keep your heart racing with more active fun like glacier treks, rock-climbing, kayaking, and more.
Culture Kick - These trips focus on giving you a backstage pass to each country's culture. We'll tour historical sights, learn traditional skills, and taste the local fare.
Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
We expect to post a full itinerary and trail runs in Summer 2023.
Want this information sent to your inbox? Join our email list!
Evening wind down (6-8:00 PM)
It's time to wind down and enjoy the night! We'll have dinner together as a group at a local restaurant or at the hotel. Dinners typically include set menu options and wine or beer.
For two of the evenings you will be free to explore and find dinner on your own (not included in trip cost). Ask our local team for recommendations...or grab some food at the hotel, turn your phone on silent, and enjoy hotel amenities to re-coop from an active day. The night is yours!
We got you! Expect a team text before bed with details on tomorrow's race, weather conditions, and packing suggestions.
Trail Runs and Hikes
Our trail runs will take you into the countryside, where you'll feel like part of the iconic landscapes that drew us here. We'll have crew on course to mind you, markings to guide you, and finish line food to revive you.
You can take these runs at your own pace - or go for gold! At the end of the week everyone earns a Global Adventures finisher medal, plus special awards for our fastest racers.
run difficulty & training
A typical Global Adventures trip includes 6 trail runs ranging from 7-12K in length. Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill. If you want to train, we recommend working up to back-to-back trail runs with varied elevation gain.
We ask runners to maintain at least a 25-minute trail pace on these runs.
We expect to post a full itinerary and trail runs in Summer 2023.
Want this information sent right to your inbox? Join our email list!
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration & Trip Planning
Will I need a passport or visa?
This is an international running adventure. A valid passport is required for participation. Though every country is different, a good rule to follow is that your passport should not expire within 6 months of your planned travel.
We do not anticipate that you will need a visa. However, visa requirements vary by country and by nationality. If you are unsure, please reach out to us and we will help you determine whether you will need to apply for a visa at all, in advance, or on arrival.
Are there discounts available?
We do not currently offer any discounts for Global Adventures trips.
What are the hotels like?
We typically have 3-star lodging booked for you. Rooms will be comfortable, clean, and safe, but no frills; a place that you would feel ok relaxing in!
On some adventures, we have alternative lodging like glamping tents. Check your itinerary and the photo gallery for pictures and additional information.
Who goes on Global Adventures trips?
From solo travelers to groups, teens to the silver-haired, seasoned thrill-seekers to those ready to step out of their comfort zone for the first time - these trips offer an experience for everyone. Our past adventurers come from all walks of life but all share a love of life and a willingness to challenge themselves.
Seriously. Don't be afraid to come alone. You are sure to leave with new friends, new confidence, and approximately 800 photos of moments that took your breath away!
How much free time will we have?
Our days start between 6:30-7:00 am for breakfast before we head out run the trails. Expect to have a few hours of free time each afternoon to explore the towns we visit and take in the grandeur of the landscape. Our goal is to have enough adventure to fill your days without feeling rushed from location to location.
In addition, all Global Adventures will have 2 free evenings- you'll be able to walk around town and maybe stop by that cute pub you passed earlier in the day for dinner!
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
If you have a particularly specific or complex dietary requirement, please reach out to us. While we cannot guarantee full accommodations, we'll always try our best!
Are there any age restrictions?
There are no age restrictions for attending these running trips. As long as you are comfortable with the runs and activities, we'll be glad to have you whether you're 12 or 112 years old!
Some of our Global Adventures trips do involve alcohol-oriented events like whiskey tastings, so please keep this in mind. For activity-specific restrictions, read below:
Patagonia Trips: The glacier hike is restricted to ages 64 and under. Individuals 65 and older are not permitted to participate, but we will try to find an alternate activity for them.
Ireland Trips: The whiskey tasting event is 21+
What Covid-19 measures are being taken?
While much of these trips is spent in the great outdoors, there's still a level of risk with any travel. Here's what we can do to limit that risk:
First, While we will no longer require the vaccine, we strongly encourage everyone traveling with us to make sure you're aware of the Covid-19 travel restrictions of each country you will visit or pass through on a layover.
Second, we have a staff medic on each trip. Please let us know right away if you have any symptoms or just need a test for travel purposes. They will be able to help you locate and schedule Covid testing as needed. We will also have rapid tests and masks on hand.
Lastly, staying healthy is a group effort. We ask all our adventurers to respect each others boundaries and preferences. If you remain unsure of the risks, we encourage you to wait to take a Global Adventures trip until you feel confident joining us!
The Races & Activities
How difficult are the runs?
Global Adventures are meant to challenge you. That being said, we welcome runners of various levels and will support you towards the finish line.
Each day we’ll be running/hiking between 7-12K (approx. 3-6 miles). Most of these runs will have a decent amount of elevation gain. It is not uncommon for us to walk the uphill portions and run when the terrain is flat or downhill.
We plan for runners to maintain at least a 20-minute trail pace on these runs. If we believe this pace becomes too difficult for a runner, we may ask them to sit out a run or offer a shorter course for them.
Do I have to run every day?
This is your vacation- you should do what you want!
If you want to take a break for a day or two, then by all means do it. Our goal is to make sure you have the best possible experience on the trails, whatever that means for you.
Are there aid stations?
There are no aid stations in these trail runs.
Most adventurers choose to wear a hydration backpack or carry a water bottle in hand (along with a few gels or other snacks as needed).
You are required to bring your own hydration system. Our team loves the hydration options developed by Nathan Sports. Give them a look!
Will we run into animals on the trails?
If you are lucky, you’ll get to see some local wildlife (Moose, goats, whale, oh my!) We will be visiting wild places and encounters with animals are always a possibility. However, we will be on well traveled trails which tend to keep the animals away.
All Global Adventures trips partner with expert guides from the area to provide tips on staying safe on the trails. Mosquitos will vary greatly with the climate and even changes year-to-year. We recommend packing mosquito repellent.
Can I bring someone who doesn't run?
If you want to bring a partner to the event that doesn’t want to participate in the runs, that’s totally fine. They'll still get to join in the daily activities and explore the destination - just not on the trails.
Just sign up for the event as a regular participant, but let us know in the registration notes that your partner is not running.
What other activities will we be doing?
Each Global Adventure is different - expect a range of activities like historical tours, boat cruises, hands-on workshops, and more!
For activities specific to this trip, check out the itinerary. You'll also receive a detailed daily itinerary a few weeks before your arrival date.
Ready to run? Sign up for emails!
We'll send updates directly to your inbox when new details are released.
Still got questions? Our team loves to talk to new adventurers! Schedule a chat with us.