Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun

This Tour to the Chimborazo Volcano, one of the highest mountains in Ecuador, you cannot miss because it is full of typical Andean natural landscapes of the Andes, Summer is the best time to climb the Chimborazo Volcano. It is considered the furthest point on Earth with 6,263 meters above sea level (20.548 ft) and 6,384 km. It has two refuges: the Hermanos Carrel refuge at 4845 m.a.s.l (15895 ft) and the Whymper refuge at 5042 m.a.s.l (16541 ft.) Chimborazo is called the King of the Ecuadorian Andes, surpassing all volcanoes and hills. The enormous massif extends from east to west and its upper part is covered by glaciers, which are a source of water for the nearby populations. The fauna is represented mainly by llamas, vicuñas, small rabbits, wild horses, marsupial mice, paramo wolves, quindes, curiquingues, pigs, and condors.

1. 1

   Quito

   Pass by

   We start early in the morning. We leave from your Hotel/accommodation to start with the tour

2. 2

   Mount Chimborazo

   4 hours

   The adventure begins! Our tour to Chimborazo from Quito takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to observe the magical landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. The main entrance to Chimborazo National Park is located in the Casahuala Control Area. We will arrive at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the main entrance. Located at an altitude of 4,386 meters (14,389 feet), this access point is the most used by visitors and has an interpretation center where you can obtain information about the park's flora, fauna, and geology.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   20 min

   After a 30-minute drive into the reserve, our tour will take us to the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, the first refuge in the Chimborazo Wildlife Production Reserve, located at an altitude of 4,850 meters above sea level. It's a key stop for mountaineers and tourists visiting the Chimborazo Volcano Tour, as our ascent begins here.

4. 4

   Chimborazo Refuge Hike

   10 min

   Refugio Hermanos Carrel is a mountain refuge perched at approximately 4,845 m (15,892 ft) on the slopes of Chimborazo Volcano, inside the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, just above its upper parking area .

5. 5

   Laguna Condor Cocha

   1 hour

   Cóndor Cocha Lagoon is a small glacial lake located at 5,100 meters (16,732 ft) above sea level on the slopes of Chimborazo Volcano, within the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve. Surrounded by stunning high-Andean landscapes, it offers breathtaking views and a rare opportunity to experience extreme altitude without technical climbing. Its name means “Condor Lagoon” in Kichwa, inspired by the occasional sightings of the majestic Andean condor. Though small, the lagoon is a symbolic destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The trail to Cóndor Cocha begins at the Hermanos Carrel Refuge (~4,845 m), continues to the Whymper Refuge (~5,000 m), and then extends about 500 meters further uphill to the lagoon. The hike is moderately challenging due to the altitude but offers unmatched panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding páramo.

6. 6

   Chimborazo Province

   1 hour

   After your high-altitude adventure, enjoy a comforting lunch at a local Ecuadorian restaurant near the Chimborazo Reserve. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and showcase the rich culinary traditions of the Andean highlands. ( No included)

7. 7

   Quito

   4 hours

   After enjoying a traditional Ecuadorian lunch near the Chimborazo Reserve, we begin our journey back to Quito. Sit back and relax as we drive through scenic Andean landscapes, passing through highland villages and valleys along the way. Arrival in Quito is expected in the evening, concluding an unforgettable day in the shadow of Ecuador’s highest peak.

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.