About the services
What are the safety standards of Andeanface?
Climbing is an adventure sport, and as such it has inherent dangers, as our liability waivers and every book on the topic will tell you. One of our main goals as a committed company towards safety, is to help you have a safer trekking and mountaineering adventure, by hiring guides who are experienced in risk management, knowledgeable of the necessary skills for safe outdoor activities. Statistically, more people injure themselves approaching the mountains than while roped in a glacier.

Who will be my guide?
All of our guides are skilled climbers who have been known for their technical proficiency, proven safety records, careful judgement, patience and supportive teaching styles, and good personalities. Most of our mountain guides hold a Wilderness First Responder Certification. Many of them also have a university studies.

What kind of food will be provided on my trip?
Our many years of mountain travel in Ecuador have provided us with well-tested and nutritious meal plans. Meals will consist of pastas, rice, soups, and fresh, foods. Be sure to bring along your favourite energy food, and after dinner treats. If you have specific allergies / preferences, our staff will provide meals accordingly if it was specified on your application.

What if someone on my rope gets altitude problems and I lose my summit chances?
Safety is the primary consideration on all our trips. Participants must keep in mind that they are part of a team and that the safety and security of a team member is the highest priority. In the unlikely event that the entire group is required to get a team member down, they will be called upon to assist the guides. If a trip member can be escorted safely by another individual, and the group can continue on safely, we will make every attempt to reach the summit.

What is the accommodation like during the trip?
Every expedition begins in Quito where we stay in a comfortable hotel with hot water, private bathrooms, and trusted staff. Our climbing expeditions leave the hotel after two nights and spend the rest of their time in haciendas, which are country side farmhouses converted into cosy lodges. Before the summit attempts, on most of the major peaks, we stay the nights in well-equipped mountain refuges, complete with electricity and bathrooms. In some cases such as Antisana, where there is no hut, we will set up a base camp where we spend the night before the attempt.

What sort of transportation will we use during the trip?
It depends on the group size, in most cases we use well maintained 4x4 Mitsubishi Montero jeeps. With more than four climbers we use a mini bus.

Will there be any gear provided by Andeanface?
Yes, we can provide double plastic mountaineering boots up to size 46 EU / 11 1/2 US, crampons, ice axes, and harnesses. Please note that it is always better that you bring your own gear.

Can I visit the children’s home project while I am in Ecuador?
Of course, we will be happy to take you for a visit to Clarita Luz Children’s home in Ambato. This can easily be done specially if your itinerary goes near the city. The kids will be happy to see you! Volunteer work opportunities are also available at Clarita Luz.

About bookings
How do I sign up for a trip?
You will be e-mailed an application form which has to be completed, signed and e mailed to us or sent to the fax number (593-2) 2441-411
After that you will be asked to send us a deposit of 20% of the cost of the trip. The rest must be paid 30 days before your arrival. The bank account details will be sent on request.

Can I book only some services with Andeanface?
Yes, our services are guiding, food, reservations, transport, gear, logistic support, planning, radios. It all depends on your needs.

Can I book only some excursions with Andeanface?
Yes, Andeanface gives you the chance to book from a single excursion to a multiple day expedition. It all depends on your interest, length of stay and experience. Tailor-made programs are our speciality.

What happens if I need to cancel my trip?
If you should decide to cancel your trip, Andeanface must be notified in writing by e-mail or fax. Your trip will be cancelled from the date we receive written notice. You will be assessed a cancellation fee according to the following schedule:

More than 30 days from trip departure: $150 fee per person.
15 to 29 days from trip departure: 100% of deposit.
Less than 15 days from trip departure: 100% of the full payment unless agreed with Andeanface due to unforseen circunstances

Do I need to purchase travel insurance?
We highly recommend travel insurance. The insurance should provide coverage for loss of baggage and travel documents, baggage delays, medical expenses and emergency assistance.

About fitness
How physically fit do I have to be for a high altitude climb?
All our climbs above 5.000 m /16,400 ft are physically demanding, and your ability to enjoy the trip depends on your overall health and fitness. Your trip will be more rewarding for yourself and others if you prepare for it by conditioning properly. We believe that the best form of training is to simulate the activity you are training for and increasing the level of exertion as the routine becomes easier. For example, walking up hills and stair climbing are excellent ways to condition your lower body, heart and lungs for climbing. Begin slowly, without the weight of a pack, and eventually add weight as you increase your training pace. Then begin taking longer hikes several times a week with a heavier pack. Supplement these workouts with running, swimming, cycling or other forms of aerobic activity. We suggest that you begin your daily training a few months prior to your visit to Ecuador.

What will the weather be like on my trip?
The Andes of Ecuador generate and attract their own weather, making conditions difficult to predict. Because of it’s position, it is the only place in the world where you can climb on any day of the year, being the best months for the ascensions located on the eastern mountain range from November to February. Adverse weather can occur at any time. You should be prepared for a wide range of temperatures, from freezing nights with snowy and windy conditions, to bright sunshine intensified by high altitude. Our guides will make every attempt to follow our trip itineraries. If you are unable to reach a summit because of weather or any other reason, Andeanface will be unable to provide a refund.

About local issues
Where do I fly into?
Our company is based in Quito, the capital city, and therefore our services start from here. People travelling from Europe usually fly from Madrid or Amsterdam into Quito, and people from the U.S. leave from Houston or Miami.

What type of electricity does Ecuador have?
The electricity in Ecuador is the same as in the United States: 110V-60HZ.

Which time zone is Ecuador at?
The mainland Ecuador is GMT -5.

What is the country code for telephone calls?
The national country code is 593, if you call Quito you need to add a 2, plus the 7 digits of the number. For example (593-2) 243-8699.