The weather in Ecuador can be unpredictable. You might start a climb under sunny skies and finish it in a whiteout. I always wear and pack a complete layering system in my pack: a base layer, a fleece or mid-layer, a shell, and an insulating puffy jacket because conditions can change quickly, and you want to be prepared. One piece of gear I constantly see people underestimate is eye protection. Even on cloudy days, snow blindness is a real threat. Bring a solid pair of glacier glasses (and a backup), and I also recommend something like a face glove. It’s a cost-effective and lightweight way to protect your nose and cheeks from the sun while also reducing fog on your lenses.

And finally, one of my favorite parts of this trip is the cultural immersion. Between climbs, there’s unavoidable drive time, but I see that as a chance, not a chore. I always bring a book on Ecuador’s history or download a couple of podcasts. Learning about the country while physically moving through it adds so much to the experience. The haciendas we stay in are steeped in history, and the local teams we work with have great pride in their heritage. The more you engage with the people and places, the more connected you’ll feel to the mountains you’re climbing. For me, that’s what elevates this expedition beyond just the summits; it becomes a full-circle, enriching journey.