Ecuadorian Volcanoes Ascent

After breakfast today, you will embark on a tour to explore the colonial history of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Quito was once a significant trade hub for the Caras (a pre-Incan indigenous tribe) and the Incas. Partially developed during Spanish rule, the city will captivate you with its stunning architecture, serene atmosphere, and rich history.

Your first stop will be La Compañia de Jesus Church, renowned for its remarkable baroque gilding dating back to around 1605. Next, you’ll visit Plaza Grande, where you’ll find the city’s cathedral, the presidential palace, and the churches of La Merced and Santo Domingo.

Following this, you’ll take a leisurely walk along the charming La Ronda Street, a historic thoroughfare in Quito filled with 17th-century homes that once belonged to various artists, politicians, and writers. The tour will conclude at Panecillo Hill, where the iconic Statue of the Virgin of Panecillo watches over the city.

After enjoying lunch (included), you’ll head north in the afternoon to the Equator Line, located 20 kilometers away (a 45-minute drive). Here, the monument marks latitude 0 degrees, allowing you to stand in both hemispheres simultaneously and conduct experiments to explore the forces of the Earth.

You’ll then have dinner (not included) and spend the night at a delightful hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: 6h

Hike: 30 min

Transport: 1h 30 min

Morning transfer (2h30 drive) to the stunning Cuicocha Lagoon, a breathtaking crater lake nestled in the Andes. You will have the opportunity to hike around the lagoon, enjoying the picturesque scenery and diverse flora and fauna. The walk is easy and takes around 4 hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area at a leisurely pace.

After your hike, you'll transfer to the hacienda near the San Pablo Lagoon, where you can unwind and take in the tranquil surroundings.

On the way, there will be a visit to Cotacachi village, renowned for its leather craftsmanship, as well as a stop in Peguche, a traditional Kichwa village where you can learn about local culture and customs. This journey promises not only stunning landscapes but also a rich cultural experience that will enhance your understanding of this beautiful region.

Overnight in Otavalo.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: 2h

Hike: about 4h

Transport: 3h 30 min

Short transfer to climb the Fuya Fuya volcano, which stands at an impressive 14,038 ft (4,280 m), after reaching the breathtaking Mojanda lagoon. This climb will serve as your first significant experience before tackling the majestic peaks of Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo, allowing you to acclimatize and appreciate the stunning Andean landscape.

In the afternoon, you will join the San Clemente community, where you will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful interactions and cultural exchanges, creating lasting memories and connections. This unique moment of sharing with the community will enrich your journey, providing insight into their traditions and way of life amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Andes.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 3h 30 min

Transport: 2h 15 min

Morning transfer to conquer the Imbabura volcano, which stands at an impressive 13,346 ft (4,609 m). This ascent will serve as a crucial first test before you embark on your future challenges, including the formidable Cayambe at 18,991 ft (5,790 m), the iconic Cotopaxi at 19,342 ft (5,897 m), and the towering Chimborazo, which reaches 20,664 ft (6,300 m).

A 5–6-hour trek will not only provide you with breathtaking views but also allow for optimal acclimatization, ensuring that you are well-prepared for your upcoming ascents. As you navigate the diverse terrain and enjoy the stunning landscapes, you will gain valuable experience that will serve you well in your climbing endeavors.

After a rewarding day of exploration and achievement, you will return to the welcoming community of San Clemente to spend the night, reflecting on your accomplishments and gearing up for the adventures that lie ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 7h

Transport: 40 min

You will leave the San Clemente community to reach the Cayambe refuge, a journey that promises stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes.

Once you arrive at the refuge, you will take advantage of the afternoon to complete your acclimatization, engaging in light activities and enjoying the serene environment before attempting to climb Cayambe, which is uniquely situated on the equatorial line and offers a remarkable experience for climbers. As you prepare for your ascent, you’ll have the opportunity to absorb the rich culture and natural beauty of the region, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: 4h

Hike: 1h

Transport: 2h

In Cayambe, staying at the Cayambe refuge at an impressive altitude of 15,088 ft (4,600 m), you will have a free day at the refuge to calmly acclimatize yourself before your ascent during the night. This day is essential for allowing your body to adjust to the high altitude, helping to prevent altitude sickness and ensuring that you are in optimal condition for the climb ahead. You can take advantage of this time to explore the stunning surroundings, enjoy the breathtaking views, and engage in light activities that will further aid your acclimatization process.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: No

Transport: No

You will leave very early in the morning, around 1 a.m., to attempt the challenging climb of Cayambe Volcano, where the breathtaking views and unique landscape await you. After an exhilarating ascent, you will return to the refuge around 8 a.m. and then transfer to Papallacta, where you can unwind and rejuvenate in the soothing natural thermal baths, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. This relaxing experience will be the perfect way to soothe your muscles after the climb and enjoy the serene beauty of the area.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 8h

Transport: 3h

You will take the two Illinizas volcanoes direction, heading through a scenic trail surrounded by lush paramo vegetation and rugged terrain. You will climb on foot to the Illinizas refuge located at an altitude of 15.088 ft, where you can rest and acclimate to the high altitude while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding Andes. Along the way, you’ll pass through diverse ecosystems, and the refuge itself serves as a crucial base for those preparing to summit the peaks.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 3h 30 min

Transport: 2h 30 min

Early in the morning, you will attempt the North Illiniza Volcano Climb, reaching an impressive elevation of 16,813 ft (5,126m). As the first light of dawn breaks, you will push through the challenging terrain, eventually reaching the summit in the early morning hours, where breathtaking panoramic views await.

After soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery, you will then take the Cotopaxi National Park direction, where the adventure continues amidst stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. This journey promises not only physical challenge but also unforgettable moments of natural beauty and personal accomplishment.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 5h

Transport: 3h

You will have a free day in the Cotopaxi National Park to prepare for the climb that awaits you at night. You will go up to the Cotopaxi refuge in the afternoon, reaching an elevation of 15,953 ft (4,864 m). Use this time to acclimate to the altitude, check your gear, and rest as much as possible before the challenging ascent. The breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean landscape will inspire you as you mentally and physically prepare for the adventure ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 50 min

Transport: 30 min

You will leave around midnight to attempt the Cotopaxi volcano ascent, embarking on a challenging yet rewarding journey under the starlit sky. You will reach the summit at sunrise around 6 a.m., where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views and a sense of accomplishment.

After the descent, you will take the road to the Baños spa town, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the soothing thermal waters. This picturesque town, nestled in the Andes, offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility to conclude your unforgettable experience.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Visit: No

Hike: 9h

Transport: 3h

You will enjoy a free day in Baños to rest or enjoy the many activities in the city such as thermal baths, canyoning, or the many canopies (zip lines).

Meal: Breakfast

Visit: No

Hike: No

Transport: No

After making the transfer to the famous and magnificent Chimborazo Reserve, you will climb directly to the refuge, where you will rest and acclimatize before attempting to climb the highest peak in Ecuador, Chimborazo, standing at an impressive 20,664 ft (6,300m). Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including rugged terrain and stunning glacial views, which make the journey as memorable as the destination itself.

Our final destination is the Carrel Refuge, located at 15,744 ft (4,800m), a crucial stop to prepare for the challenging ascent ahead. Here, you’ll enjoy a warm meal, take in the serene mountain atmosphere, and gather your strength for the adventure that awaits.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: No

Transport: 2h 30 min

You will wake up around 11:30 pm to begin the Chimborazo ascent. You will climb for around 8 to 9 hours, which is not technically difficult but physically demanding due to the high altitude and steep terrain. Along the way, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the starry sky and the surrounding Andean landscape.

You will be back around 10 to 11 am at the refuge, where you can rest and enjoy a warm meal before taking the road back to Quito, reflecting on the incredible achievement of summiting Ecuador's highest peak.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Visit: No

Hike: 8h

Transport: 4h

Your driver will pick you up to take you to the airport.

Meal: Breakfast

Visit: No

Hike: No

Transport: 1h