Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition
Fantastic Food, Culture and Ascents to over 20,000 feet / 6,000 meters
Ecuador’s famous “Avenue of the Volcanoes” offers some of the finest beginner to intermediate guided mountaineering in the Andes, set amid a fascinating cultural backdrop. The combination of challenging volcano climbs, charming haciendas, amazing food, and great Ecuadorian guides makes this one of our most enjoyable adventures and one of the best introductions to high altitude mountaineering for advanced beginners and a challenging trip for seasoned mountaineers as well.
These climbs or the Ecuador Mountaineering School are excellent ways to prepare for Aconcagua, India’s Nun, Peru’s Chopikalki, and other bigger 6,000−8,000 meter summits.
Mountain Madness-style defined/Meals included and more services provided
Food is love and we love food! Sampling local Ecuadorian cuisine is an interesting part of this expedition, that’s why Mountain Madness makes eating an important element of this trip- and with a few exceptions, all meals are included so you can relax and enjoy the experience! Likewise, all overnights are included in the cost and included carefully chosen haciendas where you can enjoy the ambience of comforts of Ecuadorian hospitality in fine style.
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Trip Perks
Ecuador Volcanoes Mountaineering Trips: What to Expect
Imagine you have just spent the last six hours climbing in the darkest hours of the night on the equatorial glaciers of 20,703-foot / 6310-meter Chimborazo. Flashes of lightning far off in the distant Amazon Basin eerily illuminate the scene as you climb through the night. After all your labors you finally arrive on the summit — you are now at the highest point in the world from the center of the earth due to the equatorial bulge! It’s pretty hard to surpass Mount Everest in any way, but you just did.
30-day training plan from Alpine Athletics -
Description
Explore Ecuador’s Captivating Culture and Acclimatize Before the Climb
Ecuador is a country of amazing diversity. Within its relatively small domain, an area slightly larger than Great Britain, there is an almost unparalleled treasure trove of biological richness. From the Galapagos Islands, made famous by Charles Darwin, to the coastal mangrove swamps and scrub forests, and upward to the mysterious “cloud forests ‚” there is enough to capture the imagination for a lifetime, and all this before you have even explored the highlands and mountains, let alone the Amazon Basin.
We begin our adventure in Ecuador with an orientation in the beautiful, high colonial city Quito (9,400 ft / 2865 m), the world’s second highest capital after La Paz, Bolivia. The city lies in a gently sloping valley beneath peaks rising over 15,000 feet / 4572 meters. We spend time exploring Quito and the colorful village of Otavalo and its wonderful markets displaying handmade goods of the Otavalan Indians. The time spent shopping and additional hikes serve to acclimatize us before we depart to Cayambe, the first objective.
We then venture along the Avenue of Volcanoes, through Ecuador’s countryside, to begin the ascents of Ecuador’s three highest peaks. While climbing the beautiful Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo, we encounter glacier travel, 35 – 40 degree snow and ice slopes, and beautiful ridges.
The Ecuador Volcanoes trip offers the very best of a wonderful country: spectacular mountains, diverse terrain, and a variety of climbing situations. Ask about our extension to Galapagos for a journey into prehistoric times.
Volcanoes Around Ecuador: Guided Mountaineering on Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo
Before our ascent of the first objective, 18,996-foot / 5790-meter Cayambe, we have the option of several acclimatization hikes. With the group beginning to acclimatize, we then journey to Cayambe where accessible glaciers offer an ideal environment to review our skills before the ascent.
Our next objective is to climb the world’s highest active volcano, Cotopaxi. The mountain stands at 19,347 feet / 5897 meters in Ecuador’s Central Cordillera, and towers high above three other major peaks, Ruminahui (15,602 ft / 4755 m), Sincholagua (16,360 ft / 4987 m), Quilindana (16,134 ft / 4918 m) and the Paramo, an area reminiscent of the Scottish moors. We drive into Cotopaxi National Park, first passing through pine forests and then the Paramo. You will see a wide variety of animals, such as wild horses, llamas, and an abundance of bird life, including the magnificent Andean condor. From the Paramo, we will drive to 15,092 feet / 4600 meters where we begin our travel by foot. A forty-five minute hike brings us to the Jose Ribas Hut (15,749 ft / 4800 m) at the base of Cotopaxi. The following day we rest and prepare for our climb.
Our summit attempt begins on non-glaciated snow slopes that lead to a glacial platform at 17,000 feet / 5182 meters. As the morning progresses, we watch the sunrise over the parkland, tropical forests, and the heavily glaciated, 18,714-foot / 5704-meter Antisana. We travel over more complex areas of the glacier, crossing snow bridges, skirting large crevasses, and ascending moderate terrain to reach the summit cone. Once there, 35 – 40 degree snow slopes and a short ridge walk brings us onto Ecuador’s second highest summit. (Note that if Cotopaxi is closed due to volcanic activity, we will use Antisana or the Illinizas as alternative objectives.)
After our summit, we spend a relaxing night at a nearby hotel before driving south to Chimborazo, a tremendous, multi-summited mountain that rises almost 11,000 feet above the central valley. The following day we drive to a farmhouse near the trailhead and prepare for our final climbing objective. The next morning we will be supported by porters and/or pack animals to establish a high camp on the flanks of Chimborazo. Beginning at midnight, we attempt the summit of Ecuador’s highest peak!
Our route up the eastern flank is moderately steep and although the climb on this route is not considered technical, the diversity of climbing techniques used, as well as the peak’s great height, make it an incredibly rewarding ascent. On top you are greeted by the morning sun and magnificent views of some of the more than 30 volcanoes that dot the landscape and rise far above the patchwork of fields where potatoes, corn, and a variety of other crops are grown by the various indigenous groups of Ecuador. To the east lies the jungle; the green wilds shrouded in mystery by the billowing clouds and rain that support one of the most complex natural systems in the world — the Amazon Basin. Later that day you will be swinging in a hammock at one of the charming haciendas Mountain Madness groups enjoy, reveling in your ascent earlier that day to Ecuador’s highest summit. Such are the wonders in store for visitors to this peaceful, very friendly country in South America.
Looking for a more shorter Ecuador mountaineering guided trip? Check out our Cotopaxi Express 9‑Day “Eating Expedition” where you can summit the world’s highest active volcano, and satiate your efforts with delicious local cuisine.
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Unique Accomodations
Ecuador Volcanoes: Where You’ll Eat, Play and Stay
Your trip to Ecuador begins at the Hacienda Rumiloma. This unique hacienda will help you settle into the Ecuador countryside quite comfortably. Each casita boasts a minimum of 600 square feet and is filled with a unique mix of antiques, art and collectibles from the far corners of Ecuador.
As you travel further into the mountains you’ll stay in more of Ecuador’s distinctive haciendas. Built during the colonial period, these historic settlements offer excellent living and dining accommodations. Most haciendas still operate as ranches, farms or plantations, making your stay an excellent opportunity to observe working life in Ecuador.
When you reach the town of Otavalo you’ll stay at the Hotel Pinsaqui, an historic hacienda established in 1790. Built and decorated with a sense of grandeur, the Hotel Pinsaqui has a colorful story to tell. A number of famous people have used the hotel as a haven, including South American liberator Simon Bolivar. Today, the Pinsaqui offers well-appointed suites and a restaurant serving Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
Committed to protecting the beautiful flora and fauna that surround this exquisite hacienda, Los Mortiños offers a unique place for researchers and travellers. The hacienda grounds is one of the most spectacular viewpoints for the Avenue of the Volcanoes and offers comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms and hot water.
Built in the seventeenth century, La Cienega is the oldest and most impressive colonial hotel in Ecuador’s Cotopaxi province. This breathtaking mountain lodge, which stands near the edge of Cotopaxi National Park, features two-meter thick walls carved from volcanic rock. La Cienega’s close proximity to Cotopaxi made it a favorite for visiting scientists in the 1700s. The hotel’s restaurant offers a menu rich with regional and international meals. La Cienega’s chef, Alfredo, has served visitors since the hotel was opened to the public in 1982.
When you leave the haciendas for your summit climbs the Mountain Madness philosophy of travelling comfortably goes with you. On each summit climb you will be sleeping in an Ecuadorian mountain hut. When you stay in these huts our guides will be your host and you’ll enjoy the creativity of their cooking skills.
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Bonus Chimborazo High Camp
As if climbing a 6,000+ meter/20,700-foo peakt isn’t a tall enough order by itself, you will be attempting it after having climbed several other peaks as part of your acclimatization program; so while you may be feeling more acclimatized, you will still be somewhat tired. Previously our climbs of Chimborazo began in the early hours of the night from the Whymper Hut, giving climbers a more than 4,000-foot/1200+-meter ascent. This proved very difficult for many. As a result we are now using a high camp to help our teams get the best possible advantage at reaching the summit, cutting the summit climb in almost half.
![Chimborazo high camp]()
Have a Question? Contact Us!
Price
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Ecuador Volcanoes
$4,950 – 11 Days / Includes travel time
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Basic Single Supplement (Hotels Only) – $700
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Upgraded Single Supplement (Hotels + Tambopaxi) – $1,200
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Ecuador Volcanoes w/Chimborazo Extension
$6,250 – 14 Days / Includes travel time
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Basic Single Supplement with Chimborazo Extension (Hotels Only) – $775
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Upgraded Single Supplement w/Chimborazo Extension (Hotels + Tambopaxi + Chimborazo Lodge) – $1,275
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Climbing permit fees
- Scheduled hotel nights in Quito (double occupancy)
- Scheduled mountain lodge/refugio nights (double or triple occupancy)
- All meals as per itinerary
- All group climbing gear, tents and cooking gear
- All expedition staff including porters and pack animals
- Airport transfers
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Ecuador entry visa and airport fees
- Meals on arrival day
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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Ecuador Volcanoes 2026
- Jan 15, 2026 — Jan 25, 2026
- Feb 19, 2026 — Mar 1, 2026
- Jun 11, 2026 — Jun 21, 2026
- Nov 18, 2026 — Nov 28, 2026
- Dec 29, 2026 — Jan 8, 2027
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Ecuador Volcanoes w/ Chimborazo Extension 2026
- Jan 15, 2026 — Jan 28, 2026
- Feb 19, 2026 — Mar 4, 2026
- Jun 11, 2026 — Jun 24, 2026
- Nov 18, 2026 — Dec 1, 2026
- Dec 29, 2026 — Jan 11, 2027
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Ecuador Volcanoes 2027
- Jan 14, 2027 — Jan 24, 2027
- Feb 18, 2027 — Feb 28, 2027
- Jun 10, 2027 — Jun 20, 2027
- Nov 17, 2027 — Nov 27, 2027
- Dec 28, 2027 — Jan 7, 2028
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Ecuador Volcanoes w/ Chimborazo Extension 2027
- Jan 14, 2027 — Jan 27, 2027
- Feb 18, 2027 — Mar 3, 2027
- Jun 10, 2027 — Jun 23, 2027
- Nov 17, 2027 — Nov 30, 2027
- Dec 28, 2027 — Jan 10, 2028
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with a departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip you will need to arrive in Quito, Ecuador on Day 1, which in most cases will have arrival times late evening; anywhere from 7 pm to 11:30 pm. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Ecuador Volcanoes Day by Day
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Day 1
Arrive Quito
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Arrive Quito. You will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Hacienda San Jose de Puembo.
No meals included. -
Day 2
Quito City Tour & Gear Check
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Today includes a guided city tour of Quito, exploring the historic Old Town and its iconic colonial churches, along with time at elevation to begin gentle acclimatization to the city’s high altitude. A gear check with your guides will also take place to ensure everyone is prepared for the days ahead. Overnight at Hacienda San José de Puembo.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 3
Acclimatization Hike Up Ruco Pichincha
Elevation: 15,643 ft / 4768 m
Acclimatization hike and rock scramble to the summit of Rucu Pichincha (4,768 m / 15,643 ft). From the top, enjoy expansive views over Quito and the Avenue of the Volcanoes, with sightlines to many of Ecuador’s major peaks. The hike typically takes 3 – 4 hours to reach the summit and approximately 2 hours to descend. Overnight at Hacienda San José de Puembo.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 4
Otavalo Historic Indigenous Market
Elevation: 8,530 ft / 2600 m
Drive from Quito to Otavalo (2hrs), with lunch en route at a scenic location offering great views. Upon arrival, sip a coffee and stroll through one of the largest indigenous markets in South America, known for its vibrant textiles, fruits, and local handicrafts. Optional hikes are available as time allows. Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 5
Yanacocha Lodge
Elevation: Cayambe 18,997 ft / 5790 m
Drive approximately two hours to the lodge and arrive at Yanacocha. Check in with the park rangers to get permits. In the afternoon, hike to the lake at the entrance of the Cayambe Glacier to continue acclimatization. The roundtrip hike typically takes about 3 hours. Overnight at Yanacocha Lodge.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 6
Cayambe Hut
Elevation: 15,091 feet / 4600 meters
Enjoy a relaxed morning and an extra cup of coffee before a short drive to the Ruales Oleas Hut on Cayambe. Upon arrival, rest, hydrate, and prepare for the upcoming climb. Get some sleep ahead of a midnight wake-up call for the summit attempt.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 7
Cayambe Summit Attempt
Elevation: 18,997 feet / 5790 meters
After an early morning departure, climb the crevassed slopes of the Cayambe Glacier to the summit. After approximately 6 – 7 hours, reach the summit of Cayambe (5,790 m / 18,997 ft). Following a 3‑hour descent, enjoy breakfast at the hut before returning to Quito and our hotel, San José de Puembo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 8
Tambopaxi Lodge
Elevation: 12,467 feet / 3800 meters
Today, enjoy a scenic drive from Quito to Cotopaxi National Park. En route, stop for a traditional Ecuadorian lunch with local chagras (cowboys). Overnight at Tambopaxi, a modern mountain lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 9
Jose Ribas Hut
Elevation: 15,748 feet / 4800 meters
After breakfast at Tambopaxi Lodge, drive to approximately 15,000 ft / 4,572 m. From there, take a short 45-minute hike to the José Ribas Hut, where we rest and prepare for the climb. A midnight wake-up call awaits everyone.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 10
Cotopaxi Summit Day / Return To Quito
Elevation: 19,347 ft / 5897 m
Departing around midnight, begin the climb by hiking up scree slopes until reaching the glacier. From here, ascend moderate snow to the Yanasacha Wall, a steeper section just below the crater rim. After climbing this final pitch, reach the summit of Cotopaxi (5,897 m / 19,347 ft), with the opportunity to look into the crater or take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and Chimborazo, our final objective. The ascent typically takes 6 – 7 hours, with approximately 3 hours for the descent. This evening, return to Quito for an overnight stay.
Those continuing on to Chimborazo will return to Tambopaxi to overnight and rest up for the big climb ahead.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 11
Fly Home / Chimborazo Lodge
Elevation: 12,895 ft / 3931 m
Depart Quito and fly home. For those continuing on to climb Chimborazo, drive to Chimborazo Lodge with lunch en route. After approximately 3 – 4 hours, arrive at the lodge and relax while enjoying views of Chimborazo’s south face, grazing llamas, and the lodge’s mountaineering museum décor.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
w/ Chimborazo Extension Day by Day
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Day 11
Chimborazo Lodge
Elevation: 12,895 ft / 3931 m
Drive to Chimborazo Lodge with lunch en route. After approximately 3 – 4 hours, arrive at the lodge and relax while enjoying views of Chimborazo’s south face, grazing llamas, and the lodge’s mountaineering museum décor.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 12
Chimborazo High Camp
Elevation: 17,552 ft / 5350 m
Today we drive approximately 30 minutes to check in with park rangers, followed by a short additional drive to meet the porter team. Hike to high camp, typically taking 2 – 3 hours. Upon arrival, rest and prepare for the summit attempt, with an early dinner ahead of an alpine start.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 13
Chimborazo Summit / Quito
Elevation: 20,548 ft / 6263 m
Departing around midnight, hike up scree slopes until reaching the glacier. After negotiating a few steeper sections on the glacier, arrive at Ventimilla Summit. From here, it is approximately one hour to the true summit of Chimborazo (6,263 m / 20,548 ft), the highest point in Ecuador. The ascent typically takes about 7 hours, with 3 – 4 hours for the descent. After enjoying the views, descend to high camp for breakfast, then continue down to the vehicles and return to Quito for a celebratory dinner at a nice local restaurant. Overnight at San José de Puembo.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 14
Fly Home
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Depart Quito and fly home.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition
This is a comprehensive gear list. Depending on conditions for your trip, your guide may decide that some items are not needed.
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Carrying Gear
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Summit pack (40-50L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume between 2,500-3,500 cubic inches (40-50 liters) serves most people’s needs well
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Large duffel bag (150L)
One at least 7,000 cubic inch capacity (150 liters). Must be durable and waterproof
Examples:
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (15-20F)
One down or synthetic bag rated from 15-20°F /-9 to -7°C
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
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Climbing Gear
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
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Locking carabiners (2)
Two large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
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Double length nylon runner (48" or 120cm)
be sure to get nylon not dyneema (18mm width)
Examples:
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Single length runner (24" or 60cm)
be sure to get nylon not dyneema (18mm width)
Examples:
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30’ of perlon accessory cord (6mm)
30 feet of 6mm cord
Examples:
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
Examples:
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
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Ski goggles
To fit over glacier glasses in high wind. Rose or amber lenses
Examples:
Smith, Oakley
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Hands
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Liner gloves
Two pairs thin fleece or synthetic
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Warm gloves
One pair fleece or wool with water resistant shell
Examples:
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Light hiking boots or trail shoes
For acclimatization hikes
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Gaiters SA
Make sure they will fit over boots (if not already integrated in boots)
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Mountaineering Boots SA
Depending on your future mountaineering endeavors, your boot choice could differ. Boots such as the La Sportiva Spantik, G2 or G6, and Scarpa Phantom 6000 are a good investment for those who are pursuing other high-altitude climbs (such as Aconcagua or Denali). The Koflach Degre would be the choice for those looking for a warm boot in moderate conditions. If you are looking at hybrid leather/plastic boots, make sure it is rated for 6,000-meter peak climbs or winter mountaineering.
Examples:
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
2x Synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
A non-cotton baselayer top. Wool or synthetic fabrics are required. Short or long sleeve acceptable, though we recommend long sleeve.
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
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Sun hoodie
A long-sleeved base layer top made from non-cotton materials such as merino wool or polyester. Light-colored, hooded sun shirts are strongly recommended for sun protection and are commonly worn by guides on most climbs.
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Non-cotton baselayer bottoms that should fit snugly without constriction. We recommend lighter weight baselayers rather than heavier fleece-type layers.
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water bottles with insulators
Two one-liter wide-mouthed plastic bottles
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Small stainless-steel thermos (optional)
For hot beverages on summit day
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
Examples:
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
Examples:
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Ecuador Volcanoes
$4,950
11 Days / Includes travel time
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Book Trip
Ecuador Volcanoes w/Chimborazo Extension
$6,250
14 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
Cayambe 18,997 ft / 5790 m
Cotopaxi 19,347 ft / 5897 m
Chimborazo 20,703 ft / 6310 m
Route
Normal Routes
Client to Guide Ratio
2:1 – 3:1
Preparing for this trip
How well you prepare shapes how much you enjoy the Ecuador Volcanoes Expedition. Book this trip at least 8 weeks before departure and you can start with 4 weeks of free training through Alpine Athletics, Mountain Madness’s sister coaching company. You get a training plan matched to your fitness and trip, a coach who reviews your workouts, Premium TrainingPeaks access, and a week of Peak Performance, our mindset program for climbers. There’s no additional cost and no commitment. After you pay your deposit, watch for a welcome email from Alpine Athletics with the details.
Difficulty
Advanced Beginner
Climbers should have basic snow and ice-climbing skills and should be comfortable with glacier travel, which includes moving in a rope team, self arrest, and basic crevasse rescue. Basic knowledge and experience would be required for objectives with some rock climbing.
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