Peaks of Ecuador Comfort Expedition

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 situated in the vibrant La Mariscal neighborhood.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Visit: 6h

Hike: No

Transport: 1h 30 min

After enjoying breakfast and departing early at 07:00, you will arrive at the stunning Quilotoa Lake, known for its striking turquoise waters. From the viewpoint at 12,841 feet, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the crater and its steep slopes.

According to legend, a fierce and brave god named Quilotoa resided on the lake’s surface. Regarded as the ruler of the volcanoes, he often battled another god named Toachi, who lived at a lower elevation. Toachi despised Quilotoa for his might. To showcase his power, Quilotoa’s waters reflected the sky like a mirror.

A picnic lunch is included, and by midday, you will arrive in the charming village of Chugchilán. You will stay in a simple yet delightful accommodation and have a lovely conversation with Hilda, the warm and genuine owner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: 40 min

Hike: about 5h

Transport: 3h 30 min

On this day, following a hearty breakfast, you'll prepare for the next leg of your two-day acclimatization hike through the western Andes. This segment will lead you to the timeless village of Isinliví.

Like the previous stage, this hike will be relatively easy, as you will be descending in elevation. Chugchilán sits at 10,498 feet, while Isinliví is at 9,514 feet.

The trek will take approximately six hours, during which you'll traverse rural valleys that range from arid to lush in a largely untouched and wild region. A highlight of your journey will be passing through the renowned Toachi Canyon, making it one of the most enjoyable hikes in the country.

You’ll have a picnic lunch (included) along the way before arriving in the afternoon, where your driver will be waiting for you. Afterward, you'll travel to Lasso, a journey of about an hour and a half, where the delightful Hacienda will welcome you for a well-deserved moment of relaxation.

Prepare to be enchanted by the stories, legends, and historical insights of this mystical and historic estate.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 5h

Transport: 1h 30 min

Today, prepare to conquer the summit of Corazón Volcano, standing at an impressive 15,715 feet. The total elevation gain will be approximately 3,280 feet. The initial part of the climb is relatively easy, with a steady incline and a pleasant trail, though you’ll be ascending continuously.

As you approach the final peak, you’ll traverse the "páramo," a unique Andean ecosystem characterized by tall grasses. The climb will gradually become more strenuous, with less stable footing and slower progress.

A picnic lunch (included) will be provided before tackling the most physically demanding and technical section of the ascent. After crossing the iconic páramo, you’ll face the final rocky peak, which can be loose and challenging at times.

While the climb is tiring, no special equipment is required. You’ll need to stay focused, move carefully, and avoid rushing. On a clear day, the panoramic view from the summit is breathtaking.

From the top, you’ll be rewarded with views of Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Antisana—three of Ecuador’s highest volcanoes—as well as Pasochoa, Rumiñahui, and the famous Illinizas. The spectacle is sure to leave you in awe.

After soaking in the views, you’ll descend to the starting point, where your vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your charming accommodation. There, you’ll have time to unwind, relax, and reflect on your incredible achievement.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 7h

Transport: 2h

Following an early departure around 5:00 AM, you will begin your exploration of the Illinizas volcanoes. As you pass through the village of El Chaupi, you will ascend to the Ilinizas North refuge, which sits at an elevation of 16,633 feet. The refuge itself is located at approximately 15,419 feet, and your journey will start from a spot known as "La Virgen," where your driver will drop you off.

The trek to the refuge is not technically challenging, but the altitude and steepness may pose difficulties. Expect to spend around three to four hours walking to reach the refuge.

Afterward, you will proceed to the next phase of your adventure. From the refuge, you will make your way to the summit of Illiniza North. With minimal or no snow, you will navigate along a path of sand and rocks to the northwest of the refuge. The ascent will become more technical as you follow the ridge, with some sections being quite steep.

You will enjoy a picnic lunch (included), and after returning to the vehicle, you will be taken to a charming hacienda situated in front of Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world. Take some time to relax and get ready for tomorrow's adventure.

Please be aware that in adverse weather conditions, you might need crampons, ropes, and mountaineering boots. The guide may utilize a rope for your reassurance, based on your comfort level.

Weather permitting, there is also the option to ascend Illiniza South (17,220 ft). This peak is higher than Illiniza North and presents a more technical and physically challenging climb.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 7h

Transport: 2h 15 min

On this day, you'll have a leisurely morning to rest and rejuvenate or explore the iconic Cotopaxi National Park at your own pace.

Named after the world’s highest active volcano, Cotopaxi (19,338 ft) is one of the most significant protected areas in the country. This impressive volcano, whose name translates to 'moon neck,' will showcase the lunar-like landscapes typical of the Andean highlands.

You’ll encounter stunning volcanic terrain, wild horses, and, of course, the “chagras” (horseback farmers). Your journey will begin at Limpiopungo Lake, a breeding and feeding ground for various Andean birds. Afterward, you’ll be taken to the Cotopaxi refuge “José Rivas” (at an altitude of 15,953 ft). Each participant will need to carry their own personal gear (clothing, sleeping bag, and footwear).

From the parking area, you’ll hike to the refuge, which is at a similar elevation to Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc, or Mount Fairweather in Alaska. You’ll retire for the night around 18:00 to prepare for the ascent at midnight when snow conditions are optimal for reaching the summit at sunrise.

Lunch and dinner (included) will be served at the Cotopaxi refuge.

Please note: Depending on the activity level of Cotopaxi Volcano and local regulations, the ascent may not be feasible. If this occurs, we reserve the right to modify the itinerary and offer an ascent of Cayambe Volcano as an alternative, while keeping the price unchanged.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 1h

Transport: 45 min

Around midnight, you'll depart from the refuge and make your way to the summit of Cotopaxi. This volcano boasts a stunning conical shape that towers gracefully over the Andes, offering views of other volcanoes with their peaks rising above the clouds.

While not technically a difficult glacier, climbing Cotopaxi does require some physical exertion, with slopes ranging from 30 to 35 degrees. However, the sense of accomplishment you'll feel upon reaching the summit is unmatched!

This will be a magical experience, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a day spent pushing your limits to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the magnificent mountain range and its snow-covered summits.

The climb will take around six to seven hours, followed by a two to three-hour descent. After coming down from the glacier, you can enjoy a snack at the refuge before continuing your descent to the parking area, where your driver will be waiting. You'll then head south to the spa town of Baños, with lunch (included) served along the way.

Baños serves as the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, providing you with a well-deserved opportunity to relax!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Visit: 30 min

Hike: 8h

Transport: 3h 15 min

You will have a free day to explore the vibrant and welcoming spa town of Baños. This village is situated in the Tungurahua province, named after the region's most prominent feature: the Tungurahua Volcano, which rises to 16,452 feet and translates to 'throat of fire' in Quechua.

Dominating the landscape above Baños, the impressive Tungurahua is among Ecuador's most active volcanoes, although there have been no significant eruptions since 2014.

After participating in optional activities, you will head back to your hotel for some much-needed relaxation and dinner (not included).

Meal: Breakfast

Visit: No

Hike: 3-5h

Transport: No

This morning, you will be taken to the Chimborazo wildlife reserve, home to Ecuador's highest peak, the Chimborazo Volcano (20,570 ft). You will begin your ascent by car to the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, situated at an elevation of 15,912 ft.

This iconic reserve features otherworldly landscapes made up of sand, soil, and rocks, providing opportunities to see numerous vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas in their natural habitat.

You will reach the Hermanos Carrel Refuge by late morning. The refuge is named after the Carrel brothers, who assisted the renowned mountaineer Edward Whymper in 1880 during his successful ascent of Chimborazo Volcano.

Lunch (included) will be served at the refuge. You can use your free time to take a short walk to “Condor Cocha,” located at 16,732 ft, or simply explore the area. Around 18:00, it will be time for bed, with a wake-up call around 23:30 for the night ascent.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Visit: No

Hike: 2-3h

Transport: 2h 30min

On this day, you'll be climbing the magnificent Chimborazo Volcano, which stands at 20,570 feet. With an elevation comparable to Denali, the tallest peak in the United States, Chimborazo is the highest volcano in Ecuador and holds the title of the point on Earth closest to the sun, thanks to its equatorial location and altitude. In fact, it boasts the highest summit in the world!

The climb will take about eight hours of hiking. While the ascent isn't technically difficult, it's essential to be in excellent physical shape to reach the top. The slopes along the Andean route are quite steep, ranging from 35 to 45 degrees, with no flat sections.

The descent back to the refuge will take around three hours. After returning to the refuge around 9:00 to 10:00, you'll be transported back to Quito. A lunch (included) will be provided during the journey, and you'll spend the night in a lovely hotel in Quito.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Visit: No

Hike: 9h

Transport: 3h 30min

Following breakfast, you'll have some time to prepare before departing for Quito airport in order to catch your international flight.

The journey to the airport will take about an hour, during which you'll have one last view of the capital, including its vibrant activity, unique landscape, and the daily lives of the locals. If you're fortunate, you might also catch a final sight of Cotopaxi before it's time for your international departure and the conclusion of our services.

Meal: Breakfast

Visit: No

Hike: 9h

Transport: 1h