Welcome to Next Adventure Ecuador Agencia de Turismo Ecuador
TOUR DESCRIPTION
Discover one of the best rock climbing destinations in Ecuador with this full-day experience in San Juan – Riobamba, also known as “El Acantilado”, a top climbing spot in the Andes with stunning views of the Chimborazo Volcano.
This tour combines adventure, technique, and nature in a unique volcanic rock environment featuring more than 100 equipped climbing routes, suitable for all levels. Routes range from 20 to 100 meters (65 – 328 ft), offering everything from beginner-friendly climbs to advanced multi-pitch routes.
Located in an Andean canyon surrounded by waterfalls and highland landscapes, San Juan is the perfect destination for an authentic outdoor adventure in Ecuador, improving climbing skills or preparing for high-altitude expeditions like Carihuairazo or Chimborazo.
NOTE
San Juan is one of the most complete climbing areas in Ecuador, ideal for both beginners and experienced climbers looking for technical progression and altitude training.
Its easy access, wide variety of routes, and natural setting make it a key destination for those starting in Andean climbingor preparing for more demanding mountaineering challenges.
GENERAL TOUR INFORMATION
Duration: Full Day (1 day)
Departure time: 09:00 AM
Return time: 06:00 PM approx.
Tour type: Rock Climbing – Adventure – Outdoor
Mode: Private / Small group
Location: San Juan – Riobamba, Chimborazo
Starting point: Hotel in Riobamba / agreed meeting point
Languages: Spanish / English
Availability: Daily upon reservation
Altitude: 3,200 – 3,600 m / 10,498 – 11,811 ft
Average temperature: 8 – 18 °C / 46 – 64 °F
Difficulty level: Beginner to Advanced (adaptable)
Climbing type: Sport climbing & multi-pitch
Route height: 20 – 100 m / 65 – 328 ft
Number of routes: +100 equipped routes
Access: Short approach from vehicle
Best season: Year-round (best during dry season)
DETAILED ITINERARY
FULL DAY | ROCK CLIMBING SAN JUAN – CHIMBORAZO
Activity duration: 8 – 9 hours
Operating altitude: 3,200 – 3,600 m / 10,498 – 11,811 ft
Average temperature: 8 – 18 °C / 46 – 64 °F
TRANSFER TO SAN JUAN – EL ACANTILADO
Departure from Riobamba towards the climbing area, crossing Andean landscapes with direct views of Chimborazo Volcano.
PREPARATION AND TECHNICAL BRIEFING
Arrival at 3,300 m / 10,826 ft.
Full equipment delivery and professional instruction including:
Proper use of harness, helmet, ropes, and belay system
Techniques for sport climbing and multi-pitch routes
Climbing communication and commands
Safety protocols on volcanic rock
Assessment of participant skill level
APPROACH AND FIRST CLIMBING SESSION
Short hike (5–10 minutes) to climbing walls located between 3,300 – 3,500 m / 10,826 – 11,483 ft.
Climbing routes selected based on level:
Beginner: 20 – 30 m / 65 – 98 ft
Intermediate: 30 – 60 m / 98 – 197 ft
Advanced: 60 – 100 m / 197 – 328 ft (multi-pitch)
Volcanic rock terrain with vertical sections ideal for technical progression.
REST IN NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Break in a safe area near waterfalls and canyon landscapes.
Conditions: 12 – 18 °C / 54 – 64 °F
Time for hydration, snacks, and recovery.
SECOND SESSION – TECHNICAL PROGRESSION
Continuation of climbing with focus on performance:
Technique improvement and efficiency
Dynamic belaying practice
Progression to more challenging routes
Optional multi-pitch climbing
Maximum altitude: 3,600 m / 11,811 ft
END OF ACTIVITY
Technical wrap-up including:
Equipment return
Performance feedback
Recommendations for future climbs or mountaineering objectives
RETURN TO RIOBAMBA
End of services.
|
Route |
French Grade |
YDS (USA) |
UK Grade (approx.) |
Level |
Type |
Height |
Sector |
|
La Envidiosa |
8c+ |
5.14c |
E11 |
Elite |
Sport |
25–30 m |
Middle |
|
Chimborazo View |
5a |
5.7 |
VDiff |
Beginner |
Sport |
15–20 m |
Lower |
|
Andes Start |
5b |
5.8 |
Severe |
Beginner |
Sport |
20 m |
Lower |
|
Sendero Vertical |
5c |
5.9 |
Hard Severe |
Beginner |
Sport |
20–25 m |
Lower |
|
Volcano Line |
6a |
5.10a |
VS |
Intermediate |
Sport |
25–30 m |
Middle |
|
Roca Andina |
6a+ |
5.10b |
HVS |
Intermediate |
Sport |
30 m |
Middle |
|
Fuerza del Chimborazo |
6b |
5.10c |
E1 |
Intermediate |
Sport |
30–40 m |
Middle |
|
Cañón Técnico |
6b+ |
5.10d |
E2 |
Intermediate |
Sport |
35–40 m |
Middle |
|
La Cascada Climb |
6c |
5.11a |
E3 |
UpperIntermediate |
Sport |
40–45 m |
Waterfall |
|
Condor Wall |
7a |
5.11d |
E4 |
Advanced |
Sport |
40–50 m |
Waterfall |
|
Ruta Andina Pro |
7a+ |
5.12a |
E5 |
Advanced |
Sport |
45–50 m |
Upper |
|
Vertical Andes |
7b |
5.12b |
E6 |
Advanced |
Sport |
50–60 m |
Upper |
|
Roca Extrema |
7c |
5.12d |
E7 |
Advanced |
Sport |
50–60 m |
Upper |
|
Chimborazo Classic |
6a / 6b |
5.10a–c |
VS–E1 |
Intermediate |
Multi-pitch |
60–80 m |
Upper |
|
Andes Multi Route |
6b / 6c |
5.10c–5.11a |
E1–E3 |
UpperIntermediate |
Multi-pitch |
80–100 m |
Upper |
|
Summit Wall Line |
7a |
5.11d |
E4 |
Advanced |
Multi-pitch |
100 m |
Upper |
Transportation from/to Riobamba
Certified climbing guide (ASEGUIM or equivalent)
Full climbing equipment
Technical briefing and safety instruction
Assistance throughout the activity
Meals
Travel insurance
Tips
Personal equipment
BEST TIME FOR ROCK CLIMBING IN SAN JUAN – CHIMBORAZO
The San Juan rock climbing tour in Ecuador is an outdoor adventure experience in the Andes, ideal for those seeking technique, adrenaline, and direct contact with volcanic rock in one of the top rock climbing destinations in South America.
Located near Riobamba, this climbing area offers favorable conditions throughout most of the year thanks to its Andean location and easy access. Climbing takes place on solid volcanic rock walls, featuring both sport routes and multi-pitch climbs suitable for all levels.
Average activity altitude: 3,200 – 3,600 m / 10,498 – 11,811 ft
Terrain type: Volcanic rock (andesite), vertical walls and canyon formations
Total duration: Full Day (6–8 hours of active climbing)
Difficulty level: Beginner to advanced (adaptable 2/5 to 4/5)
Recommended age: From 12–14 years (depending on physical condition)
Climate: Mid-mountain Andean climate, variable (sun, wind, clouds)
MOST STABLE SEASON
June – August | November – January
Lower rainfall
More dry days and better rock conditions
Improved friction for technical climbing
Clear skies with views of Chimborazo
Safer conditions for longer routes (multi-pitch)
Recommended for: beginners, photography, and full experience
MORE VARIABLE SEASON
February – May | September – October
Increased humidity and occasional rain
Rock may be wet in certain sectors
Rapid weather changes (clouds and wind)
More technical and demanding experience
Recommended for: experienced climbers or those seeking a more challenging adventure
PREPARATION BEFORE THE TOUR
No extreme acclimatization required, but adapting to altitude (Riobamba) is recommended
Get a good night’s sleep before the tour
Stay well hydrated
Eat light, meals
Avoid alcohol before the activity
SAFETY DURING THE TOUR Certified climbing and mountain guides (ASEGUIM or equivalent)
Technical and safety briefing before starting
Constant supervision throughout the activity
Mandatory use of technical equipment (helmet, harness, ropes)
Continuous evaluation of weather and rock conditions
Small groups for better control and safety
Rock climbing is a technical activity; following the guide’s instructions is essen
Clothing and footwear
Comfortable outdoor clothing (layer system)
Windproof or waterproof jacket
Durable pants (trekking/stretch recommended)
Sport shoes or climbing shoes
Light gloves (optional)
Personal protection
Sunscreen SPF 50+
Sunglasses
Hat or buff
Personal items
Small backpack
Water (minimum 1 liter)
Energy snacks
Camera or phone
Recommended extras
Extra clothing
Lip balm
Waterproof cover
Chalk (if experienced climber)
IMPORTANT TIPS DURING THE TOUR
Maintain a steady pace while climbing
Use proper footwork to conserve energy
Stay hydrated
Follow the guide’s instructions at all times
Stay focused on each movement
Enjoy the process, not just the goal
WHAT YOU WILL TAKE FROM THIS EXPERIENCE
A real rock climbing experience in the Ecuadorian Andes
Unique views of Chimborazo Volcano
Improved climbing skills and technique
Connection with volcanic landscapes and nature
Spectacular photos in a unique setting
Personal achievement from completing a physical and mental challenge
RESERVAS Y PAGOS
Depósito: Se requiere un abono del 50% para reservar.
Saldo pendiente: El pago total debe liquidarse antes del inicio del viaje.
Métodos de pago: Transferencia bancaria, tarjeta de crédito o plataformas de pago seguras.
Precios de temporada: Los costos pueden variar según la temporada del año.
CANCELACIONES Y REEMBOLSOS
30 días de antelación: Reembolso del 50% (menos gastos administrativos).
15 días de antelación: No reembolsable.
Fuerza mayor: Se ofrecerá reprogramación de la fecha o un crédito de viaje.
No-show (No presentación): No reembolsable bajo ninguna circunstancia.
CONDICIONES DE VIAJE
El itinerario puede cambiar debido al clima, logística o por seguridad.
Los pasajeros deben informar sobre condiciones médicas o alergias.
Es obligatorio portar una identificación válida (Cédula o Pasaporte).
Se recomienda contar con un seguro de viaje.
Los menores de edad deben viajar acompañados por un adulto responsable.
Niños hasta 3 años: 30% de descuento.
Niños hasta 2 años: Gratis (no se garantiza cama adicional).
Niños de 12 años en adelante: Aplica tarifa de adulto.
RESPONSABILIDAD AMBIENTAL Y CULTURAL
Respeto total a la naturaleza y a las comunidades locales.
Prohibido arrojar basura o dañar áreas naturales.
Apoyo al comercio local: compre directamente a los artesanos.
Respeto a las costumbres indígenas y áreas sagradas.
TRANSPORTE Y SEGURIDAD
Vehículos que cumplen con todos los requisitos legales.
Guías y conductores certificados.
Cumplimiento estricto de las normas de seguridad en todo momento.
ASISTENCIA Y COMUNICACIÓN
Soporte disponible durante todo el recorrido.
Actualizaciones oportunas sobre cambios o emergencias.
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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?