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0984 155 679 turismoecuador24@gmail.com Luis A. Martinez y 12 de Noviembre, Banos de Agua Santa Ecuador

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12-Day Ecuador Mountaineering Expedition

12-Day Ecuador Mountaineering Expedition

English Spanish ECUADOR TOURS 12 Day
ECUADOR
( 978 Reviews )

Important Information

  • Duration: 12 Day
  • Online Payment
  • Direct Booking
  • Guides: English - Spanish

Tour Description

Experience one of the most complete mountaineering expeditions in South America with this 12-day Ecuador climbing adventure. Designed for hikers, climbers, and mountain enthusiasts, this expedition combines progressive acclimatization, glacier training, technical ascents, and cultural experiences while conquering some of Ecuador’s most iconic peaks.

The journey begins in Quito, a UNESCO World Heritage City located at 2,850 meters above sea level, providing the perfect environment for altitude adaptation. Climbers will gradually acclimatize through ascents of Corazón Volcano (4,790 m) and Illiniza Norte (5,126 m), increasing the chances of success on higher peaks.

The expedition continues in Cotopaxi National Park, where participants receive professional glacier training covering crampon techniques, ice axe use, glacier travel, rope management, and mountain safety procedures. Following the training, climbers will attempt the summit of Cotopaxi (5,897 m), one of the highest active volcanoes in the world.

The ultimate challenge is Chimborazo (6,263 m), Ecuador’s highest mountain and the closest point on Earth to the sun due to the planet’s equatorial bulge. Reaching this legendary summit is considered one of the greatest mountaineering achievements in South America.

In addition to the climbing experience, travelers will explore Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador’s adventure capital, visiting spectacular waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and the famous Tree House Swing overlooking Tungurahua Volcano.

This expedition is ideal for climbers seeking a professionally guided high-altitude adventure in the Andes. The program includes certified mountain guides, transportation, accommodations, glacier training, acclimatization support, and personalized assistance throughout the expedition.

Book your Ecuador mountaineering expedition today and conquer the highest peaks of the Ecuadorian Andes.

What is included?

  • Bilingual professional guide
  • Transportation
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Climbing equipment

What is not included?

  • Additional costs
  • Drinks
  • Tips

Tour Itinerary

Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights

Activity: Trekking & High-Altitude Mountaineering
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Maximum Altitude: 6,263 m (Chimborazo)


Day 1 – Arrival in Ecuador

Upon arrival at Quito International Airport, our team will welcome you and provide a private transfer to your hotel.

In the evening, there will be a briefing about the expedition, equipment check, safety procedures, and acclimatization recommendations.

Accommodation: Hotel in Quito


Day 2 – Quito City Tour & Middle of the World

Explore Quito’s Historic Center, one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visits include:

  • Basilica of the National Vow
  • Independence Square
  • La Compañía Church
  • El Panecillo Viewpoint
  • Middle of the World Monument

This day provides gentle acclimatization at 2,850 meters before beginning the climbing program.

Accommodation: Quito


Day 3 – Corazón Volcano Summit (4,790 m)

Transfer to the Ecuadorian Andes and begin the ascent of Corazón Volcano.

This acclimatization climb follows scenic páramo trails and offers spectacular views of Illiniza Norte, Illiniza Sur, Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, and Antisana.

Hiking Duration: 6–7 hours

Accommodation: Machachi


Day 4 – Trek to Nuevos Horizontes Refuge

Travel to the Illinizas Ecological Reserve and begin the trek to Nuevos Horizontes Refuge.

The route crosses beautiful Andean grasslands and provides excellent acclimatization before the summit attempt.

Hiking Duration: 3–4 hours

Refuge Altitude: 4,750 m

Accommodation: Nuevos Horizontes Refuge


Day 5 – Illiniza Norte Summit (5,126 m)

Early morning departure for the ascent of Illiniza Norte.

The route includes volcanic terrain, scrambling sections, rocky ridges, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Ecuadorian Andes.

After reaching the summit, descend to the refuge and transfer back to Machachi.

Summit Altitude: 5,126 m

Climbing Duration: 7–9 hours

Accommodation: Machachi


Day 6 – Cotopaxi Glacier Training

Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park.

Hike to José Rivas Refuge and participate in a glacier training session led by certified mountain guides.

Training includes:

  • Crampon techniques
  • Ice axe use
  • Glacier travel
  • Rope team procedures
  • Basic rescue techniques
  • Snow and ice movement skills

Accommodation: José Rivas Refuge


Day 7 – Cotopaxi Summit (5,897 m)

Around midnight, begin the ascent of Cotopaxi Volcano.

Climb across glaciers and snow slopes while enjoying breathtaking views of the Avenue of the Volcanoes and the Andean sunrise.

After the summit attempt, descend and transfer to Baños de Agua Santa.

Summit Altitude: 5,897 m

Climbing Duration: 8–10 hours

Accommodation: Hotel in Baños


Day 8 – Recovery and Rest Day

A recovery day designed to help climbers regain energy before the Chimborazo ascent.

Participants may relax in Baños, visit thermal baths, explore local cafés, or simply rest.

Later, transfer toward the Chimborazo region.

Accommodation: Lodge near Chimborazo


Day 9 – Chimborazo Approach

Transfer to Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve and hike to Whymper Refuge.

The afternoon is dedicated to equipment preparation, hydration, and rest before the final summit attempt.

Refuge Altitude: 5,000 m

Accommodation: Whymper Refuge


Day 10 – Chimborazo Summit (6,263 m)

Shortly after midnight, begin the ascent of Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest mountain.

The route crosses glaciers, snowfields, and high-altitude terrain before reaching the summit, considered the closest point on Earth to outer space.

After celebrating this remarkable achievement, descend and transfer to Baños.

Summit Altitude: 6,263 m

Climbing Duration: 10–14 hours

Accommodation: Hotel in Baños


Day 11 – Waterfalls Route & Tree House Swing Tour

Enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour around Baños de Agua Santa.

Highlights include:

  • Agoyán Waterfall
  • Pastaza River Canyon
  • Manto de la Novia Waterfall
  • Pailón del Diablo Waterfall
  • Runtún Scenic Route
  • The Famous Tree House Swing

Optional adventure activities:

  • Ziplining
  • Tibetan bridges
  • Glass viewpoint platforms
  • Extreme swings
  • Adventure parks

Accommodation: Hotel in Baños


Day 12 – Airport Transfer

Breakfast and private transfer to Quito International Airport according to your flight schedule.

End of services.

From:
$2950 per person
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