Welcome to Next Adventure Ecuador Agencia de Turismo Ecuador
Experience the Chimborazo Extreme Adventure, Ecuador’s highest volcano, on a full-day tour from Baños de Agua Santa.
Trek to Refugio Whymper, hike to Condorcocha Lagoon, and enjoy an adrenaline-filled downhill bike ride to San Juan (only up to the point allowed by Chimborazo National Park).
Explore glaciers, Andean flora and fauna, and immerse in local Andean villages and culture, in a tour packed with mountain adventure, nature, and thrills.
Note:
The itinerary can be adapted to your needs.
Contact us for more information and customize your adventure with our travel advisors.
Tour Duration: Full Day (approximately 10 hours)
Tour Type: Mountain adventure, trekking, downhill cycling, nature
Tour Mode: Private tour
Departure From: Hotel or selected pickup point within Baños de Agua Santa
Average Altitude: 4,800 – 5,041 m / 15,748 – 16,538 ft
Vehicle Distance: 70 km / 43 miles
Average Temperature: 8°C – 18°C / 46°F – 64°F
Difficulty Level: Medium to high (downhill cycling experience required)
DETAILED ITINERARY
Departure from Baños (08:00 AM):
Pickup from your hotel or designated point. During the 70 km / 43 miles drive, enjoy Andean villages, potato and corn fields, vicuñas and llamas, and stunning rural landscapes.
Ascent to Refugio Whymper:
Arrival at 4,800 m / 15,748 ft. Acclimatization and explanation of Andean flora, fauna, glaciers, and Chimborazo geology.
Hike to Condorcocha Lagoon:
45–60 minutes trekking to 5,041 m / 16,538 ft, with photo opportunities, glacier observation, Andean birds, and breathtaking mountain views.
Downhill Bike Ride:
Exciting descent to San Juan village via external Chimborazo routes.
Note: The ride is allowed only up to the point authorized by Chimborazo National Park, respecting regulations and safety. Dirt, mud, and rocky trails with stops for hydration and sightseeing. Prior mountainbiking experience required.
Lunch:
Served at the refuge or as a full box lunch, depending on date. Typical Andean food included.
Visit Andean Villages:
Cultural tour in San Juan and surroundings, learning about local traditions, crafts, and agriculture.
Return to Baños:
Private vehicle transfer, arriving around 6:00 PM.
Private transport from Baños
Certified professional guide
Guided hike to Refugio Whymper & Condorcocha Lagoon
Downhill bike & equipment
Lunch or full box lunch
Travel insurance (recommended)
Additional drinks
Tips
Personal expenses
BEST TIME TO DO THE CHIMBORAZO DOWNHILL AND TREKKING TOUR
The Chimborazo Downhill & Trekking Tour from Baños de Agua Santa is a high-altitude adventure designed for travelers seeking adrenaline, extreme landscapes, and direct contact with Andean nature. This experience combines trekking above 5,000 meters with an exciting downhill biking ride in one of Ecuador’s most extreme environments.
Chimborazo is Ecuador’s highest volcano at 6,263 m (20,548 ft), and tourist activities typically reach elevations between 4,800 and 5,100 meters, where oxygen levels are significantly lower and conditionsare more demanding.
Average altitude: 4,800 – 5,041 m / 15,748 – 16,538 ft
Total duration: Approximately 10 hours
Downhill biking distance: 15 – 20 km / 9 – 12 miles (depending on route and conditions)
Difficulty level: Medium – high
Climate: Cold high-mountain conditions (0°C to 10°C / 32°F – 50°F), strong winds, intense UV radiation, and rapidly changing weather
MOST STABLE SEASON
June – September | December – February
Lower probability of heavy rainfall in the Andes
Clear views of Chimborazo, glaciers, and surrounding landscapes
Safer conditions for both trekking and downhill biking
Drier and more stable terrain (less mud and slippery rocks)
These months are considered the best for high-altitude activities in Ecuador, including mountaineering on Chimborazo.
Recommended for:
Travelers looking for better weather conditions, safety, and clear panoramic views
RAINIER SEASON
March – May | October – November
Higher chances of rain, fog, and occasional snow
More technical terrain: mud, wet rocks, and reduced traction
Lower visibility in some sections
More challenging and physically demanding experience
Weather conditions can change rapidly during these months, affecting both trekking and biking.
Recommended for:
Experienced riders or mountain travelers looking for a more technical and adventurous challenge
PRE-TOUR PREPARATION
Get a good night’s sleep before the tour (essential for high altitude)
Stay well hydrated (helps reduce altitude sickness risk)
Eat a light meal before departure
Avoid alcohol the day before
Ideally spend 1–2 days acclimatizing at moderate altitude (Baños, Riobamba, etc.)
Be prepared for reduced oxygen levels above 4,800 m
The hike to the refuge and lagoon typically takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on fitness level and altitude conditions.
SAFETY DURING THE TOUR
Certified guides accompany the entire experience
Technical briefing before the downhill ride
Constant supervision during trekking and biking
Professional downhill bikes with suspension and reliable braking systems
Mandatory safety equipment: helmet, gloves, and protective gear
Routes adapted based on weather, group level, and National Park regulations
The downhill route includes dirt roads, rocky sections, and technical terrain, requiring prior mountain biking experience.
Clothing and footwear:
Thermal base layer (essential)
Waterproof and windproof jacket
Comfortable pants or спортив wear
Thermal gloves (important for cold downhill conditions)
Closed-toe shoes with good grip
Personal protection:
Sunscreen SPF 50+ (very strong UV radiation at altitude)
UV-protection sunglasses
Buff, scarf, or thermal hat
Lip balm
Gear and personal items:
Water bottle (minimum 1 liter)
Energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars)
Camera or smartphone
Small backpack
Useful extras:
Extra clothing (for weather changes)
Additional rain protection
Personal medication
Altitude sickness medication (optional)
GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS
Stay hydrated and follow the guide’s instructions at all times
Acclimatize at the first refuge before hiking or biking downhill
Respect local flora, fauna, and Andean cultural sites
Support local artisans and communities along the route
Avoid overexertion during high-altitude trekking or biking
WHAT YOU WILL EXPERIENCE
Full-day Chimborazo Volcano adventure from Baños
Trekking to Whymper Refuge (4,800–5,041 m / 15,748–16,538 ft)
Stunning views of glaciers, Andean landscapes, and Condorcocha Lagoon
Downhill bike ride to San Juan village (only up to the point allowed by Chimborazo National Park)
Scenic trails through Andean villages, cultivated fields, and dirt roads
Interaction with local communities and Andean culture
Lunch at the refuge or a complete box lunch, depending on availability
Learning about Andean flora, fauna, and mountain history
Fun, challenge, and connection with high-altitude nature
Unforgettable memories from a full-day Chimborazo tour with downhill biking
BOOKINGS AND PAYMENTS
Deposit: A 50% deposit is required to confirm the reservation.
Remaining balance: Full payment must be completed before the tour starts.
Payment methods: Bank transfer, credit card, or secure online payment platforms.
Seasonal pricing: Prices may vary depending on the time of year.
CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS
30 days in advance: 50% refund (administrative fees deducted).
15 days in advance: Non-refundable.
Force majeure: Date rescheduling or travel credit will be offered.
No-show: Non-refundable under any circumstances.
TRAVEL CONDITIONS
The itinerary may change due to weather conditions, logistics, or safety reasons.
Passengers must inform us of any medical conditions or allergies.
A valid identification document (ID or Passport) is mandatory.
Travel insurance is recommended.
Minors must travel accompanied by a responsible adult.
Children up to 3 years old: 30% discount.
Children up to 2 years old: Free of charge (no extra bed guaranteed).
Children 12 years and older: Adult rate applies.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND CULTURAL RESPONSIBILITY
Full respect for nature and local communities.
Littering or damaging natural areas is strictly prohibited.
Support local commerce by purchasing directly from artisans.
Respect indigenous customs and sacred areas.
TRANSPORTATION AND SAFETY
Vehicles that meet all legal and safety requirements.
Certified guides and drivers.
Strict compliance with safety regulations at all times.
ASSISTANCE AND COMMUNICATION
Support available throughout the entire tour.
Timely updates in case of changes or emergencies.
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Here you will find updated and detailed information about the requirements for traveling: entry documents, visas, vaccines, medical insurance and other important aspects that you must take into account. Review our tips and make sure you meet all the necessary requirements to enjoy your stay to the fullest.
Traveler's Guide What to do in case of emergency?