Fiery Heights of Ecuador
16 days, Guided Groups, Fixed Departures
Our climbing trip offers an exciting introduction to the glories of high altitude mountaineering (or for those who wish to extend their high altitude experience) whilst enjoying some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the Andes. Ease of access makes the volcanoes of Ecuador particularly attractive to those with a limited time frame providing an adequate period is allowed for acclimatisation. You will experience all of the earth's ecological zones from subtropical to arctic by climbing in the gloriously named 'Avenue of Volcanoes'.
During this trip you can enjoy the marvels of snow and ice climbing in the middle of the world.
You will climb four volcanoes in Ecuador: Imbabura (4630 metres), North Illiniza (5100 metres), Cotopaxi (5897 metres) and Chimborazo (6310 metres), the latter Ecuador's highest and largest mountain which is the furthest point from the centre of the earth due to the equatorial bulge. Climbing these spectacular mountains is physically demanding and some knowledge of winter skills is advised but not essential. The breathtaking views and achievement felt are worth every effort. Coupled with colonial cities, colourful markets and time to relax in both tropical Banos and bustling Quito this superb trip should provide any average fit person with the perfect all round expedition.
- Days 1 and 2. Outbound
- Fly to Quito and enjoy a city tour of the Old City with its colonial heart and the Equatorial Monument.
- Days 3 and 4. First Volcano
- Travel north to enjoy the Saturday market at Otavalo. Take the circular hike around beautiful Cuicocha Lake with its incredible views over the colourful countryside. Ascend your first summit by taking the rocky route to the top of Imbabura with views over the lush volcanic scenery far beneath.
- Days 5 and 6. Illinizas Ecological Reserve
- Transfer from East to West through the Andes along the breathtaking Avenue of Volcanoes to the Illinizas Ecological Reserve with its magnificent landscapes. Trek to the hut and attempt to climb rocky Illiniza Norte, an easy scramble with great views of snowy Illiniza Sud and Cotopaxi. Relax in the luxurious surroundings of a traditional restored hacienda with its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Days 7 to 9. Cotopaxi
- Continue to Cotopaxi National Park. You will camp in Limpiopungo valley and acclimatise on the nearby Ruminahui volcano. Trek to Cotopaxi's hut at 4800 metres and receive a class at the 'glacier school'. Depart in the early hours of the morning for one of the world's highest active volcanoes. This can take anywhere between 6 to 10 hours. You will pass over dramatic crevasses and follow a steep line of ascent up the glacier before enjoying a breathtaking and unforgettable sunrise over the glistening snowy summit and the incredible landscape below. Return to the relaxing confines of the beautiful hacienda.
- Days 10 to 12. Chimborazo National Park
- Continue South to Riobamba and a further historic hacienda. Time to recharge your batteries with a full day's rest before driving to Chimborazo National Park and the short trek to the Whymper Hut (5000 metres). An even earlier start (!) before midnight should see you gaining height rapidly through the steep moraine and onto the glacier, climbing through the night to be at the top of Chimborazo before the sun brings heat and avalanche risk. You are now at the furthest point on land from the earth's centre! Drink in the views of the sun's shadow covering the land blocked by the mass of the mountain before descending for a well-earned rest in the tropical holiday town of Banos.
- Days 13 and 14. Banos
- Free days in Banos to enjoy the many optional delights this lively town has to offer - canyoning, rafting, mountain biking, swimming, jungle visits or just chill out amidst the many street cafes and market stands. This is also a spare summit day for Chimborazo should weather dictate the itinerary. Return to Quito.
- Days 15 and 16. Homeward
- Take the overnight flight home to the UK.
- Tour grade: D+.
- Cost per person: £1,995.
- Single supplement: £75
- CO2 Offset Cost: £19.97
- What is included: Flights, accommodation, transfers, most meals, camping equipment, guide, entrance fees.
- Accommodation: Hotels, haciendas, mountain huts, camping.
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Departure dates:
Thursday, 7 February 2008.
Thursday, 6 November 2008.
Wednesday, 24 December.
Thursday, 5 February 2009.