Volcán Chimborazo | Campamento Alto y Cumbre

Experience one of the most extraordinary mountaineering adventures in South America with this expedition to the highest volcano in Ecuador, the impressive Chimborazo Volcano. 

With an altitude of 6,263 meters (20,548 ft), Chimborazo is the highest peak in the country and, due to the Earth’s ellipsoidal shape, its summit is considered the point on Earth’s surface closest to the sun. This unique feature makes this expedition one of the most sought-after by mountaineers who want to perform glacier climbing and high-altitude mountaineering in the Andes. 

The mountain is located within the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, an Andean ecosystem surrounded by extensive volcanic landscapes, high-altitude páramo, and emblematic wildlife such as vicuñas, Andean alpacas, and páramo birds. 

During this 2-day, 1-night expedition, mountaineers ascend via the classic Guargualla route, starting from Refugio Carrel (4,850 m) and continuing to a High Camp located at approximately 5,300 meters (17,388 ft) of altitude. 

From this camp, the nocturnal ascent over the glacier begins, using specialized technical equipment such as crampons, ice axes, and safety ropes, with the goal of reaching the Veintimilla summit (6,227 m) and, if conditions allow, continuing to the maximum Whymper summit (6,263 m). 

The ascent is carried out during the night to take advantage of the glacier’s most stable conditions, allowing climbers to reach the summit at sunrise and enjoy panoramic views of Ecuador’s most emblematic volcanoes such as: 

Cotopaxi Volcano 

Tungurahua Volcano 

El Altar Volcano 

This expedition is considered one of the most iconic high-altitude experiences in the Ecuadorian Andes, ideal for mountaineers seeking a true challenge in glacier climbing, high-altitude mountaineering, and Andean expeditions in Ecuador. 

NOTE: 

This tour is strictly designed for individuals with previous high-altitude mountaineering experience and proper acclimatization. 

The expedition can be organized as private departures or shared groups, depending on availability. 

For safety and planning purposes, it is recommended to check availability and dates in advance. 

GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION 

Duration 
2 days / 1 night 

Tour type 
High-altitude mountaineering expedition – mountaineering – adventure 

Mode 
Private or shared group 

Location 
Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve – Ecuadorian Andes 

Starting point 
Riobamba 

Ascent altitude 
4,850 m – 6,263 m 
15,912 ft – 20,548 ft 

High Camp 
5,300 m / 17,388 ft 

Main summit 
Whymper Summit 

Difficulty level 
High – technical 

Minimum recommended age 
16 years 

Average ascent time 
7 – 8 hours 

Average descent time 
3 – 4 hours 

Average slope 
30° – 45° 

Average temperature 

Volcano base: -3 °C / 26 °F 

High Camp: -8 °C / 18 °F 

Summit: -15 °C / 5 °F 

ITINERARY 

DAY 1 | TRANSFER TO CHIMBORAZO VOLCANO AND HIGH CAMP 

Altitude range 
4,850 m – 5,300 m / 15,912 ft – 17,388 ft 

Average temperature 
-5 °C to 5 °C / 23 °F to 41 °F 

The expedition begins in the city of Riobamba, where climbers are picked up at approximately 10:30 AM for a full check of the technical mountaineering equipment. 

Next, the transfer to the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve begins, a scenic drive of approximately 1 hour through Andean páramo landscapes where it is common to see vicuñas in their natural habitat. 

The vehicle reaches Refugio Carrel (4,850 m), one of the main starting points for expeditions to Chimborazo Volcano. 

From this point, the approach hike to the High Camp begins. 

During this stage, a mountain hike of approximately 2 to 3 hours is undertaken, gradually ascending to reach the high-altitude camp (High Camp) at around 5,300 meters. 

This route allows for better acclimatization before the final ascent and offers stunning views of Chimborazo’s glaciers and the volcanic landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. 

Once at High Camp, the expedition team sets up high-altitude expedition tents, designed to withstand sub-zero temperatures and harsh high-altitude conditions. 

Climbers spend the night in expedition tents, using thermal sleeping bags suitable for low temperatures. 

In the afternoon, the certified mountain guide conducts a technical briefing that includes: 

Detailed explanation of the ascent route 

Glacier and high-altitude weather conditions 

Correct use of crampons and ice axes 

Glacier progression techniques 

Mountain safety protocols 

Afterwards, a hot dinner is served at the High Camp. 

Following a short rest in the expedition tents, the team prepares for the nocturnal ascent. 

The summit climb begins at approximately 10:30 PM, when the glacier presents the most stable conditions due to the cold nighttime temperatures. 

DAY 2 | ASCENT TO THE CHIMBORAZO VOLCANO SUMMIT 

Maximum altitude 
6,263 m / 20,548 ft 

Average temperature 
-10 °C to -15 °C / 14 °F to 5 °F 

The ascent begins during the night under a starry sky, slowly progressing over the glacier using safety ropes and technical mountaineering equipment. 

The first part of the route includes: 

Rocky volcanic terrain 

Mixed snow and ice sections 

High-altitude glacier 

Upon reaching the rock formation known as El Castillo (5,350 m / 17,553 ft), the main glacier section begins. 

Ascent characteristics: 

Average slope: 30° – 40° 

Technical sections: up to 45° on ice 

After several hours of climbing, the Veintimilla summit (6,227 m / 20,429 ft) is reached. 

If weather conditions allow and the group maintains a good pace, it is possible to continue for approximately 1 more hour to the Whymper summit (6,263 m / 20,548 ft), the highest point in Ecuador. 

From the summit, climbers can observe some of the country’s most emblematic volcanoes: 

Cotopaxi Volcano 

Tungurahua Volcano 

El Altar Volcano 

After enjoying the panoramic views, the descent begins back to High Camp, where the expedition camp is dismantled. 

The descent then continues to Refugio Carrel. 

The total descent takes approximately 3 – 4 hours. 

Return to Riobamba is estimated at around 12:00 PM. 

End of services. 

IMPORTANT NOTE – MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT FOR THE ASCENT OF CHIMBORAZO 

The ascent of Chimborazo Volcano (6,263 m / 20,548 ft) is a high-altitude and glacier climbing expedition that takes place on technical terrain, below-zero temperatures, and variable weather conditions typical of the Ecuadorian Andes. 

During this expedition, climbers ascend from Refugio Carrel to a High Camp, where expedition tents are set up before starting the nocturnal ascent to the summit. 

To ensure safety, comfort, and performance during the expedition, it is essential to have the proper high-altitude equipment. 

Part of the specialized glacier equipment is provided by the expedition, while some personal items must be brought by each participant. 

Having the correct equipment allows climbers to adequately face sub-zero temperatures, high-altitude winds, snow, ice, and sudden weather changes, which are common during the Chimborazo ascent. 

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT YOU MUST BRING 

Participants must bring personal equipment suitable for cold weather, intense physical activity, and high-altitude trekking. 

Daypack 
30 – 40 liters to carry water, snacks, camera, and personal equipment during the hike to High Camp and the ascent. 

Expedition backpack 
50 – 60 liters recommended to carry additional equipment, warm clothing, and personal items necessary for High Camp. 

Hydration system 
Reusable bottle or hydration system (camelbak type). 

Clothing layers suitable for high-altitude 

Thermal base layer 

Thermal trekking socks 

Long-sleeve breathable shirt 

Wind-resistant mountain pants 

Waterproof and windproof jacket 

Waterproof pants for snow or rain 

High-altitude sun protection 

Sunscreen SPF 50+ 

Lip balm against cold and wind 

Personal sunglasses with UV protection 

Personal items 

Personal hygiene items 

Personal medications needed during the expedition 

Energy snacks for the ascent 

EQUIPMENT PROVIDED BY THE EXPEDITION 

The expedition provides specialized technical mountain equipment designed to ensure safety during glacier climbing on Chimborazo Volcano. 

Technical glacier climbing equipment 

Mountain boots for glacier (sizes 37 – 47) 

Professional crampons for ice 

Technical ice axe 

Climbing harness with safety carabiner 

Mountain helmet for rocky and glacier terrain 

Headlamp with batteries for nocturnal ascent 

Glacier glasses for UV and snow protection 

Balaclava or facial thermal protection 

Snow gaiters 

Fleece gloves 

High-altitude thermal gloves 

Thermal fleece pants 

Waterproof outer pants 

High Camp equipment 

High-altitude expedition tents 

Insulated sleeping pads 

Thermal sleeping bag for low temperatures 

Additional equipment 

Thermos for hot drinks 

Purified water throughout the expedition 

NOTE: 
If you wear prescription glasses, it is recommended to bring personal sunglasses or contact lenses, as standard glacier glasses may not fit correctly over optical lenses. 

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE FOR RENT 

For those who do not have complete equipment, some items can be rented before the expedition starts: 

Daypack (30 – 40 liters) – USD 3 per day 

Expedition backpack (50 – 60 liters) – USD 5 per day 

Waterproof jacket with thermal lining – USD 5 per day 

Professional trekking poles (pair) – USD 5 per day