Day 1: Arrival in Quito, one of the highest capital cities in the world (2,850 m) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Private transfer and overnight at San José de Puembo, a charming hacienda-style hotel surrounded by gardens, perfect for resting after your flight.
Day 2: Guided city tour through Quito’s colonial Old Town, visiting highlights such as the Basilica del Voto Nacional, Plaza Grande, and La Compañía de Jesús, one of the most beautiful baroque churches in Latin America. In the afternoon, we conduct a gear check in preparation for the climbs.
Day 3: We take the Quito cable car to 4,050 m and hike up Rucu Pichincha (4,698 m). This extinct volcano towers over the city and offers incredible views of Quito and the surrounding Andean peaks. Overnight at San José de Puembo.
Day 4: Drive two hours south to Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve. We ascend Corazón (4,790 m), a peak named for its heart-shaped silhouette. The hike takes about five hours and offers views of Cotopaxi and other nearby volcanoes. Overnight in the Chaupí Valley at Chuquiragua Lodge.
Day 5: After an early breakfast, we drive one hour to the Ilinizas trailhead. The ascent to Iliniza Norte (5,126 m) involves light scrambling, giving a taste of alpine climbing. From the summit, we enjoy panoramic views of Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Chimborazo. Return to San José de Puembo.
Day 6: We drive to Cayambe Hut (4,600 m) on the slopes of Cayambe, the third highest mountain in Ecuador and the only volcano on the equator line with permanent glaciers. On the glacier (4,950 m), we review rope travel, crampon techniques, and glacier safety. Overnight at Yanacocha Lodge, a cozy retreat in the highlands.
Day 7: A rest and preparation day. After breakfast and lunch at Yanacocha Lodge, we transfer to Cayambe Hut. From here, we enjoy views of glaciers and steep ridges. Early dinner and rest before the summit attempt.
Day 8: Midnight departure for the Cayambe summit (5,790 m). This challenging climb takes 6–8 hours and offers breathtaking sunrise views of the Andes and the equator line crossing the peak. After descending, overnight at Yanacocha Lodge.
Day 9: We head to the Papallacta region, famous for its natural thermal springs surrounded by cloud forest. After a short hike in the high páramo, we soak in the mineral-rich hot springs believed to aid recovery and circulation. Overnight at Termas de Papallacta, a spa resort.
Day 10: Drive into Cotopaxi National Park, one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural reserves. We stop at Limpiopungo Lagoon, home to highland bird species, with spectacular views of Cotopaxi. Overnight at Tambopaxi Lodge, located inside the park.
Day 11: Relax in the morning at Tambopaxi. After lunch, we drive one hour to Cotopaxi parking and hike to José Rivas Hut (4,800 m). Early dinner and rest before our ascent.
Day 12: Summit attempt of Cotopaxi (5,897 m), one of the most beautiful stratovolcanoes in the world with its perfectly symmetrical cone. The climb begins at midnight and takes about six hours. Sunrise from the summit offers unforgettable views. Descend and overnight at Tambopaxi Lodge.
Day 13: We travel 3–4 hours to Chimborazo Lodge, located at the base of Ecuador’s highest mountain. This traditional Andean hacienda is surrounded by herds of wild vicuñas.
Day 14: From Chimborazo Lodge, we drive to 4,800 m and hike about three hours to High Camp. The camp consists of geodesic domes with bunk beds and meal service, offering a unique high-altitude experience (note: no heating available). Dinner and early rest before the summit attempt.
Day 15: Summit attempt of Chimborazo (6,268 m), the highest mountain in Ecuador and the point on Earth farthest from the planet’s center due to the equatorial bulge. The climb takes 8–10 hours. After descending, we return to Quito and enjoy a farewell dinner at San José de Puembo to celebrate the expedition.
Day 16: Departure day. Private transfer to the airport for your international flight home.