Has anybody hired an Ecuadorian company for stuff like transportation and lodging, but not a bells and whistles guided climb?

If so, how cheap/expensive was it, and what company would you recommend.

The company Moggely used to do that, but I can't find their website anymore.

Does anyone know if they changed their name or are still around?

Google - Andean Turtle. I believe this is Moggely's website. I am in the planning process of my first trip to Ecaudor. If anyone has any information on Gulliver's/Papagayo, secifically their (5) day (3)peak program - Pasochoa, Illiniza Norte, Cotopaxi that would be appreciated. Can one count on these outfitters providing the equipment they list as "included".

Someone on Lonely Planet mentioned Andean Turtle/Moggely was out of business, not sure if its true.

I'm a mountain guide that works for a company based in Northern California. We have a trip headed to Ecuador at the beginning of January. We have a couple clients already and are looking for a couple more. We have been around for about 30 years and climbed all over, very reputable. If things don't work out and you are interested in a guide service let me know.

Have Fun

I see. Moggely is now Andean Turtle:

http://andeanturtle.com/

In 2007 at least, they would provide transportation and lodging to climbers even if you didn't go with a guide.

I climbed in Ecuador in 2003. I was able to take public bus or collectivo near enough to the main trailhead. Accomodation is dirt cheap everywhere.

Does anyone have any beta as far as technical aspects of the main route up Cotopaxi? My friends and I are planning a trip for early January and I was hoping to gather some info about the route and about recommendations as far as guides go. I would prefer not to spend a bunch of money for a service that will provide me with a bunch of gear I already have but want to make sure that we are safe on the mountain as well. Any info would be much appreciated!

We used http://hotelsierranevada.com/
They handled lodging and transport only. We did not use a guide. They were great and did what we needed. One note, they, like everyone else, operates on Ecuador time. If you want them there at 2 pm, tell them noon.
Don't remember rates, but it was comparable to others. Maybe $100 each way to Cotopaxi?

My wife and I will be climbing in Ecuador from Thanksgiving to Christmas. We are using Freddy Ramirez at Sierra Nevada. We are only using a guide on Chimborazo and just transportation/lodging with Freddy for the rest of the time. He's comes highly recommended and he was able to work with our itinerary without a problem. Only a few weeks now, can't wait!!