Destination

Trek Details

This 15-day expedition presents the ultimate mountaineering challenge in Ecuador.

15 DAYS CAYAMBE – COTOPAXI – CHIMBORAZO CLIMB ECUADOR

Cayambe, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo National Parks.

Price from

$3400

Duration

15 Days

Documents

Passport

Group Size

from 2 people

Difficulty

This 15-day expedition presents the ultimate mountaineering challenge in Ecuador, taking you to the summits of three of the country’s most iconic glaciated volcanoes: Cayambe (5,790 m), Cotopaxi (5,897 m), and Chimborazo (6,263 m) the highest mountain in Ecuador and the closest point on Earth to the sun. Designed for climbers with a moderate to advanced level of fitness and a passion for high-altitude adventure, this program emphasizes proper acclimatization, technical training, and spectacular climbs. You’ll traverse diverse Andean landscapes, from lush clouds forests and tranquil alpine lakes to imposing snow-capped peaks and majestic volcanic valleys. Guided by certified Ecuadorian mountain guides, your journey will begin with acclimatization hikes and ascents of smaller peaks to prepare your body for the altitude and conditions ahead. The expedition builds progressively, with each climb offering increasing altitude and challenge, culminating in the unforgettable ascent of Chimborazo. This adventure is not just a climb; it’s a captivating journey through one of the most geologically and culturally rich regions of South America. Get ready to immerse yourself in Ecuador’s natural beauty while forging cherished memories along the way!

Sights:

Quito world cultural heritage.
Cayambe, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo National Parks.
Baños & Papallacta hot springs.

Summit opportunities:

Pasochoa 4,199 m/ 13,776 ft.
Guagua Pichincha: 4,794 m/15,728 ft.
Padre Encantado: 4600 m/ 15091,86 ft.
Cerro Ladrillos: 4580 m/ 15026,25 ft.
Rucu Pichincha: 4784 m/15696 ft.
Fuya Fuya: 4263 m/13986 ft.
Cayambe: 5,789 m/18,993 ft.
Cotopaxi: 5897 m / 3280 ft
Chimborazo: 6,263 m/20,548 ft.

Our services:

All transfers within Ecuador with private transport (4×4 jeep or bus) as per the travel description.
All applicable national park fees and entrance fees as per the program.
Meals as listed in the program.
Overnight stays in mid-range hotels (based on double room) when staying in the cities and accommodation in mountain huts.
Local English-speaking tour guide in Ecuador
Free equipment rental on site (ice axe, crampons, harnesses, etc.)
English-speaking Ecuadorian Mountain guide on the mountains (depending on group size, additional local English and/or Spanish-speaking mountain guides). For the ascent of Cayambe, Antisana and Chimborazo, 1 mountain guide applies for 2 participants.

Not included:

Flight to/from Ecuador
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, telephone, etc.)
Travel health and insurance
Alcoholic drinks
Tips on site

Trip Information:

Duration of the trip: 15 days
Dates & Price
Number of participants: from 2 people
Travel documents: Passport
Health: No requirements; recommended vaccinations: tetanus, polio and yellow fever
Difficulty rating: 4

TRIP DESCRIPTION

Day 1 Saturday

Travel Day

Welcome to Quito, the capital of Ecuador! Most flights typically arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in the late evening. Once you arrive, our friendly driver will be there to greet you at the airport and assist you with your luggage. You’ll enjoy a comfortable ride to our warm and welcoming Tambocajas B&B, your basecamp for the upcoming adventures in this beautiful country. Settle in and get ready for an unforgettable journey in Ecuador!

Meals: Dinner
Altitudes: Quito: 2,890 m/9,481 ft.
Travel times: Airport – B&B: 45 min-40 km/24 mi
Accommodations: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse with WiFi

Day 2 Sunday

City Tour of Quito – Equator Monument

Today, we will embark on an exciting exploration of Colonial Quito. Our adventure begins at El Panecillo, where we will marvel at the impressive sculpture of Quito’s Madonna, all while enjoying breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciated peaks. Next, we will delve into the historic old town of Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning colonial architecture. Our tour will take us through vibrant streets, including Calle La Ronda, where you can experience the lively atmosphere and local culture. We will also visit significant landmarks such as the Carondelet Palace, Independence Square, the magnificent Church of La Compañía, and the historic Church and Monastery of San Francisco. Around midday, we will head northwest of Quito to visit the iconic Middle of the World (Equator Monument), where you can stand on the equatorial line. This day promises a captivating blend of history, culture, and breathtaking views!

Altitudes: Quito: 2,850 m/9,350 ft.
Travel times: B&B – old town: 30 min-8 km/5 mi; Old town – Middle of the World: 1 hr.-30 km/19 mi.
Accommodations: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse with WiFi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 3 Monday

Pasochoa Climb

Today, we will embark on an exciting journey to San Rafael, a picturesque suburb located south of Quito. Our private bus will take us to an altitude of 3,595 meters (11,794 feet), where we will begin our adventure with a three-hour hike through the lush cloud forest. As we navigate along winding roadways and narrow paths, we’ll be treated to stunning views of the unique páramo grass landscapes found in Pasochoa National Park. Our destination is the summit of Pasochoa, an extinct volcano that rises to 4,199 meters (13,776 feet). Here, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of two of Ecuador’s highest snow-capped mountains: Cotopaxi and Antisana. To reach the highest point on the crater rim, we will need to overcome an easy climbing section just below the summit. After taking in the amazing views and capturing unforgettable photographs, we’ll make our way back down to the bus for our return journey to Quito, filled with memories of an exhilarating day in the Andes.

Altitudes: Start hike: 3,595 m/11,794 ft. – Summit Pasochoa: 4,199 m/ 13,776 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 604 m/1,981 ft.
Travel times: B&B – Start hike: 1 hr. 30 min – 40 km / 25 mi.
Hiking/climbing times: Start hike – Summit Pasochoa: 3 hours – Summit Pasochoa – Start hike: 2 hours.
Accommodations: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse with WiFi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 4 Tuesday

Guagua Pichincha Climb

Today, we’ll ascend Quito’s local mountain, the majestic Guagua Pichincha, which rises to an impressive 4,794 meters (15,728 feet) above sea level. Our journey begins with a scenic drive south through the charming town of Lloa, perched at an altitude of 3,000 meters (9,842 feet). Upon reaching the parking area at 3,500 meters (11,482 feet), we’ll embark on a comfortable hike to the refuge located at 4,500 meters (14,763 feet), where we’ll spend the night. This acclimatization stop is essential as it prepares us for the final ascent tomorrow. After a well-deserved break, we will continue our hike to the summit. The ascent is technically straightforward and follows the crater rim, leading us over loose boulders and culminating in an easy climb to the main summit. On a clear day, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Quito sprawling below. Once we’ve conquered the summit, we will return to the refuge to enjoy a delicious dinner as we reflect on our incredible day and the breathtaking vistas we’ve experienced.

Altitudes: Start hike: 3,500 m/11,482 ft. – Refuge: 4,500 m/14,763 ft – Summit Guagua Pichincha: 4,794 m/15,728 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 1,294 m/4,245 ft.
Travel times: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse – Start hike 1 hr 30 min – 27km /17 mi.
Hiking/Climbing times: Start hike – Summit: 3–4 hr.
Accommodations: Refuge not Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 5 Wednesday

Rucu Pichincha climb

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off on our hike toward the summit of Rucu Pichincha, standing at an impressive 4,784 meters (15,696 feet). The trek will take us across the scenic slopes of “Padre Encantado.” As we make our way to the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning sights of nearby volcanoes, including Cayambe, Antisana, and Cotopaxi, all standing majestically against the horizon. After taking in the breathtaking views and snapping some memorable photos, we’ll begin our descent toward the cable car station at 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). From there, we will enjoy a scenic ride down the teleférico, which will lead us back to the heart of the city of Quito. This exhilarating experience on the cable car offers a unique perspective of the Andean landscape as we glide above the picturesque scenery.

Altitudes: Start hike: 4,500 m/14,763 ft. – Rucu Pichincha Summit: 4784 m/15696 ft – Telepherique: 4000 m/13123 ft
Vertical gain climbing: 284 m/931 ft.
Travel times: Telepherique – B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse: 10 min- 1,6 km/ 1 mi.
Hiking/Climbing times: Refuge – Summit: 2 hr. / Summit – Telepherique: 1 hr.
Accommodation: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 6 Thursday

Fuya Fuya Climb

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic drive into the Andean highlands, reaching the picturesque Laguna Mojanda. Nestled right next to this stunning crater lake is our destination for the day: Fuya Fuya, which stands at an impressive 4,263 meters (13,986 feet). Our hike begins on the shores of Laguna Mojanda, situated at approximately 3,700 meters (12,139 feet). From there, we’ll ascend toward the eastern summit of Fuya Fuya. As we make our way, be prepared for a bit of easy climbing just before reaching the summit, which will reward us with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and crater lakes. If the weather is permitting, you may even glimpse the magnificent ice giant, Cayambe, soaring majestically in the distance at 5,790 meters (18,996 feet). After soaking in the stunning vistas, we’ll drive back to the renowned textile town of Otavalo, where you’ll spend the night, reflecting on the day’s adventures amidst the vibrant local culture.

Altitudes: Start hike: 3700 m/12139 ft – Fuya Fuya Summit: 4263 m/13986 ft. – Otavalo: 2,532 m/ 8307 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 563 m/1847 ft.
Travel times: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse – Start hike: 2 hours – 78km/48 mi.
Hiking/climbing times: Start hike – Summit: 3 hr./ Summit – Start hike: 1 hr.
Accommodation: Hotel Rivera Sucre with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Friday

Cayambe Approach

Today’s adventure centers around visiting the vibrant Mercado de Ponchos, a regional market known for its stunning array of colorful textiles, intricate weavings, and exquisite Tagua jewelry. It’s a fantastic opportunity for photographs and to immerse yourself in the local culture. After a leisurely lunch, we will head towards Cayambe National Park via the charming town of Cayambe. Our bus will transport us to the end of the paved road at an altitude of 4,426 meters (14,521 feet). From there, we’ll embark on a short hike along the last section of the road, allowing our jeeps to transport our equipment to the Refuge Ruales-Oleas-Bergé, located at 4,648 meters (15,249 feet). This mountain hut is nestled on a pass that offers a breathtaking view of the Hermoso Glacier. Once we arrive at the hut, you will have some time to take in the stunning surroundings and prepare for the ascent. After enjoying a hearty dinner, it will be an early night, as we’ll need to rest well for our summit day, which begins around midnight. Prepare for an exhilarating challenge ahead!

Altitudes: Refuge: 4,648m/15,249ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 194 m/ 636 ft.
Hiking/climbing times: Start hike – Refuge: 30 min.
Travel times: Hotel – Start hike: 2 hour – 58 km/36 mi.
Accommodation: Refuge. Not Wi Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 8 Saturday

Cayambe Summit day

We start our climb after some hot drinks and snacks, in the midnight. From the mountain hut you first go over loose scree and a series of rocky sections to the glacier entrance. Once on the glacier, we’ll rope up and head toward a rock outcrop called Picos Jarrin 5,300m/17,390ft, were we have a break. The further climb now follows the ridge eastwards to a large crevasse, which is crossed or bypassed depending on the conditions. After about 7 hours you will stand on the summit of Cayambe 5,789 m/18,993 ft, the third highest mountain in Ecuador for sunrise and can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains as far as Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. The descent takes place on the same route and requires full concentration again. From the mountain hut you drive back to Quito for rest and recovery.

Altitudes: Refuge: 4,658 m/15,282 ft. – Summit Cayambe: 5,789 m/18,993 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 1,131 m/3,711 ft.
Travel times: Refuge – B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse: 3 hours – 100km/62 mi.
Hiking/climbing times: Refuge – Summit Cayambe: 7 hours – Summit Cayambe – Refuge:3 hr.
Accommodation: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 9 Sunday

Papallacta Hot springs

Today is our designated rest day, focused on regeneration between our summit tours. We’ll embark on a drive to Cayambe-Coca National Park, where we will reach an altitude of 4,391 m (14,406 ft) and take in stunning views of the majestic Antisana. Following our visit to the park, we will head to Termas Papallacta, widely regarded as the most beautiful hot springs spa in Ecuador. Nestled in a picturesque green landscape, this oasis offers breathtaking views of the ice-capped Antisana and is nourished by the nearby Reventador volcano. Here, you’ll have ample time to relax and recharge, preparing yourself for the upcoming summit challenges. Our accommodation will be the same as the previous night, allowing for a comfortable and familiar environment to unwind.

Altitudes: Papallacta 3250 m/ 10662 ft.
Travel times: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse – Papallacta: 1 hr. 30 min – 74 km/45 mi.
Accommodation: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 10 Monday

Cotopaxi Refuge

In the afternoon, we will drive to Cotopaxi National Park, where we can ascend to an altitude of approximately 4,600 m (15,091 ft). From there, we will embark on a one-hour hike to the José Ribas hut, located at 4,800 m (15,748 ft). This is a great opportunity to rest and prepare our gear for the following adventure. Around 6:00 p.m., we will enjoy a delicious dinner before settling in for an overnight stay at the hut.

Altitudes: Start hike: 4600 m/ 15091 ft – Jose Ribas Hut: 4800 m/ 15748 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 200 m/656 ft.
Travel times: B&B Tambocajas Guesthouse – Jose Ribas Hut: 2 hr. – 93 km/57 mi.
Accommodation: Refuge No Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 11 Tuesday

Cotopaxi summit day

At around 11:00 p.m., we will wake up to enjoy a warm beverage and prepare for our ascent. We will begin our climb at midnight! The trek to the summit of Cotopaxi, which stands at 5,897 m (19,347 ft), will take approximately 5-7 hours. You will find yourself on the summit as the sun rises, offering a breathtaking view into the crater and an incredible panoramic vista. After enjoying the remarkable scenery, we will descend back to the hut for breakfast. Following our meal, we will make our way to the parking lot and embark on a drive to Baños, which will take roughly 5 hours.

Altitudes: Jose Ribas Hut: 4800 m/ 15748 ft. – Summit Cotopaxi 5897 m / 3280 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 1.097m/3600 ft.
Travel times: Jose Ribas Hut – La Casa de Pia: 3 hour – 140 km/ 87 mi.
Hiking/Climbing times: Refuge – Summit Cotopaxi: 7 hr. Summit Cotopaxi – Refuge: 3 hr.
Accommodation: Hotel La Casa de Pia with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 12 Wednesday

Watterfall day

After breakfast, we will embark on a trip to the stunning Pastaza Gorge. Crossing the river via cable car, we will access the other side, where we’ll stroll through lush gardens filled with tangerines, lemons, and guava pears, and pass by tranquil trout pools. The waterfalls in this area are truly spectacular! Our adventure will take us down to the breathtaking «Pailón del Diablo,» the most beautiful waterfall of all. Following our exploration of the gorge, we will savor the region’s specialty: grilled trout. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the famous “End of the World” swing before returning to Baños to conclude our day’s adventure.

Altitudes: Baños 1820 m/5871 ft.
Travel times: Hotel Casa de Pia – Watterfall: 40 min – 26 km/16 mi.
Accommodation: Hotel La Casa de Pia with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 13 Thursday

Chimborazo Base Camp

Today, we will follow in the footsteps of Edward Wymper to the highest mountain in Ecuador, Chimborazo, towering at 6,263 m (20,548 ft). Notably, its main summit is the farthest point from the center of the Earth, making Chimborazo the tallest mountain in the world. We will start our journey by driving to the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, from where we will ascend to the Carrel Hut at 4,800 m (15,748 ft). There, we will prepare our equipment for the next leg of our adventure as we make our way to high camp at approximately 5,300 m (17,388 ft). Our ascent will follow the West Ridge Route, also known as the Castillo Route, which enhances our chances of reaching the summit. Porters will transport our tents, food, and water to the base camp, while you will carry your sleeping bag and sleeping mat. Upon arrival at camp, settle into your tents, enjoy a warm dinner, sip hot tea, and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. We will overnight in tents, surrounded by the stunning high-altitude landscape.

Altitudes: Hotel La Casa de Pia: 1820 m/5871 ft- Refuge: 4,800 m/15,748 ft.- Base Camp: 5,300 m/17,388 ft.
Vertical gain climbing: 500 m/1640 ft.
Travel times: Hotel Casa de Pia – Refuge: 3 hr. – 118 km/73 mi
Hiking/Climbing times: Refuge – Base Camp: 2 hr.
Accommodation: Base Camp not WiFi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 14 Friday

Chimborazo summit day

We will begin our ascent of Chimborazo around midnight, setting off toward the summit. Our journey starts by traversing through rocky fields until we reach the mountain ridge, La Arista, at 5,500 m (18,044 ft). From there, we will continue across steep sections of snow, firn, and ice, with gradients of up to 40 degrees, for approximately six hours until we reach the pre-summit, Ventimilla, at approximately 6,234 m (20,452 ft). The final stretch to the main summit, Whymper, at 6,263 m (20,548 ft), takes another 40 minutes. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Andes. To the east, you’ll see El Altar, known as the most challenging mountain to climb in Ecuador, as well as the active volcanoes Tungurahua and Sangay. To the north, you’ll spot the Ilinizas, Antisana, and the iconic Cotopaxi. The descent back to base camp will take approximately two hours, followed by an additional hour to return to the Carrel Hut at 4,800 m (15,748 ft). Afterward, we will drive to Baños for the night, where you can unwind at our hotel and rest after an exhilarating climb.

Altitudes: Base Camp: 5,300 m/17,388 ft. – Summit Chimborazo: 6,263 m/20,548 ft. – Refuge: 4,800 m/15,748 ft – Hotel La Casa de Pia: 1820 m/5871 ft
Vertical gain climbing: 963 m/3,159 ft.
Travel times: Refuge – Hotel Casa de Pia: 3 hr – 118 km/73 mi
Hiking/Climbing times: Base Camp – Summit Chimborazo: 6 hours – Summit Chimborazo – Base Camp: 2 hours
Base Camp – Refuge: 1 hr
Accommodation: Hotel La Casa de Pia with Wi-Fi
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner