OVERVIEW
Explore the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes in this 4-day adventure, which combines nature, culture, and adventure. We will hike the famous Quilotoa Loop, visiting authentic towns such as Isinliví and Chugchilán, and finally reach the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. The trip ends with a hike to the glaciers of the Cotopaxi Volcano, all while staying in cozy lodgings like Taita Cristóbal Lodge, Cloud Forest Hostel, and Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge, which are perfect for rest and acclimatization.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Quito – Isinliví (2,700 m / 8,858 ft)
Max Altitude
2,700 m. (2,700 m / 8,858 ft)
Meals
Box lunch + Dinner
Accomodation
Taita Cristóbal Lodge
Distance
4 km (light walk) Transfer 125 kilómetros
Duration
2–3 hours (3:30 hours’ Drive)
Hike from Isinliví to Chugchilán (3,200 m / 10,498 ft)
After breakfast, begin the most scenic section of the Quilotoa Loop: a full-day hike from Isinliví to Chugchilán, through cloud forests, deep canyons, rivers, and remote farming communities. Enjoy panoramic views and authentic Andean culture along the way. Overnight at Cloud Forest Hostel, surrounded by nature and tranquility.
Max Altitude
Altitude: 3,200 m / 10,498 ft
Meals
Meals: Breakfast + Box lunch + Dinner
Accomodation
Cloud Forest Hostel
Distance
12 km
Duration
4–6 hours
Quilotoa Lagoon (3,914 m / 12,841 ft)
Today we will visit the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a volcanic crater lake known for its turquoise waters. Embark on the most scenic and rewarding segment of the Quilotoa Loop. This full-day trek ascends through dramatic canyons, remote Andean villages, and lush highland trails, culminating at the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lagoon. With panoramic views and rich cultural encounters along the way, this hike is a highlight of any Andes adventure after this magnificent trek, transfer to Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge, located in a quiet village El Chaupi at the base of the Ilinizas mountains. The area is known for its alpine scenery and Swiss-like landscapes.
Max Altitude
3,914 m / 12,841 ft (Quilotoa)
3,300 m / 10,827 ft (Lodge)
Meals
Breakfast + Box lunch + Dinner
Accomodation
Distance
11 km
Duration
3 - 5 hours depending how you walk
Cotopaxi National Park – Glacier Hike (up to 5,000 m / 16,404 ft)
After breakfast at the lodge, we visit Cotopaxi National Park, including Limpiopungo Lagoon, before ascending by vehicle to the parking area at 4,600 m (15,092 ft). From here, we hike to the José Rivas Refuge at 4,864 m (15,953 ft) and optionally continue to the glacier line at approx. 5,000 m (16,404 ft), depending on weather and acclimatization. Return to Quito or Latacunga city in the afternoon.
Max Altitude
Refuge 4,864 m / 15,953 ft – Glacier 5,000 m / 16,404 ft
Meals
Breakfast + Box lunch
Accomodation
Distance
3 Km (round trip hike from parking area)
Duration
2–3 hours
Hike to Nuevos Horizontes Refuge
Our adventure starts in the morning at 10:00 am. We´ll drive to La Virgen parking lot (3,900m), the starting point of our trek. From here, we embark on a 3-hour hike through rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, ascending to the Nuevos Horizontes Refuge. The air thins as we gain altitude, and the beauty of the Andean highlands surrounds us with every step.
Max Altitude
4,700 meters (15,420 feet)
Meals
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accomodation
Nuevos Horizontes Refuge
Distance
5 km
Duration
2-3 hour
Iliniza Norte Summit
Our climbing day starts at 5 am. We will have a light breakfast, pack our climbing equipment and leave the refuge an hour later. We will continue hiking up towards the saddle formed between both peaks and then to Illiniza Norte summit (16,818ft/ 5.126 m). The approach to the top involves an easy 3-hour scrambling. Once at the summit, we will enjoy and admire the beautiful surroundings.
Max Altitude
5,126 meters (16,818 feet)
Meals
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Accomodation
Distance
10 km
Duration
4-6 hour (including summit time)
Baños City and Hot Springs
After breakfast, we head to the town of Baños de Agua Santa, famous for its lush scenery, waterfalls, and hot springs. Upon arrival, we’ll check into the hotel and spend a relaxing afternoon soaking in the natural thermal baths—perfect for recovery after climbing. The evening is free to enjoy the charming town.
Max Altitude
(1800meters / 5,905 feet)
Meals
Breakfast/-/-
Accomodation
Hotel in Baños City
Distance
140 km
Duration
3 hours’ Drive to Baños
Waterfall Route and Kayaking
Today, we’ll explore the famous “Ruta de las Cascadas” (Waterfall Route), visiting stunning waterfalls like El Pailón del Diablo and Manto de la Novia. In the afternoon, get ready for an exciting kayaking adventure on the Pastaza River—an adrenaline-filled experience suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Max Altitude
(1800meters / 5,905 feet)
Meals
Breakfast/Lunch/-
Accomodation
Hotel in Baños City
Distance
10 km
Duration
4-6 hour (including transfer)
Free Morning in Baños & Transfer to Quito
After breakfast, you’ll have the morning free to explore, shop for local crafts, or enjoy a coffee with a view. Around midday, we’ll begin the drive back to Quito, arriving in the afternoon. This marks the end of our adventure together
Max Altitude
(-)
Meals
(- , - , -)
Accomodation
(-)
Distance
190 km
Duration
3:30 hour
SERVICES
Include
- Mountain Climbing Local Insurance
- Ecuadorian qualified and experienced local Guide
- A registered and fully licensed Tour Operator
- Land transportation and transfers
- National parks fee and permits
- Accommodations:
- 1 night at Ilinizas Mountain Lodge
- 1 night at Taita Critobal
- 1 night at Cloud Forest
- 2 nights at Ilinizas Mountain Lodge
- 3 nights at Chimena Hotel
- All meals during the hikes (shown above)
Not include
- International flight tickets
- Meals and drinks in hotels (lunch, dinner)
- Insurance of any kind
- Hotels in Quito
- Tips
- Travel accident and health insurance
- Luggage insurance and trip cancellation
- Other non-specified expenses
IMPORTANT DETAILS
In Ecuador you can Climb all year, but these are the seasons
High Season: June to August / December to January
Low season: February to May / September to November
Ecuador is a fantastic destination that offers plenty of options for travel lovers. In addition to the Andes, Galápagos and Amazon Jungle are also part of this amazing land.
About this tour
Difficulty: Demanding
Places: ✅ *Available
Trip-code: Number 🔺Ec +593
Duration: 9 days
Participants: Minimum: 2 Maximum: 12
Mountain Guide: Fernando Iza
Other dates / additional info: Contact us!
Legend Booking-information
EZZ – Single room supplement
- On this trip, places are still available.
- On this trip, only a few places left.
- This trip is sold out / closed.
MAPS
EQUIPMENT
- Head torch
- Helmet
- Sun Glasses
- Buff/ Warm cap
- Backpack
- First layer
- Second layer
- Third layers (Waterproof Windbreaks, Waterproof pants)
- Mittens/Gloves
- Harness
- Inside gloves
- Carabiners
- Thermal pants
- Ice ax
- Dynamic Rope
- Thermal Lycra
- Gaiters
- Socks Mountain
- Crampons
- Mountaineering boots
- Sleeping Bag
- Battery Groups AAA
- Sunscreen
- Trekking Poles
- Thermo / Canteen for Water
- Energy bars
FAQ
1. What is the best time of year to climb in Ecuador?
Our tours typically include certified guides, transportation, accommodation, meals, and any necessary equipment for your activities. Specific inclusions vary depending on the tour, so be sure to check the detailed itinerary.
2. Do I need previous mountaineering experience?
Not necessarily.
- For Cotopaxi: Beginners with good fitness can join a summit program if they complete acclimatization hikes and receive basic glacier training.
- For Chimborazo and Cayambe: Prior glacier experience is highly recommended due to higher altitudes and longer summit pushes.
3. How important is acclimatization?
Acclimatization is critical. To prevent altitude sickness and improve summit chances, we recommend spending 3 to 5 days hiking at altitudes above 3,000 meters before attempting any summit over 5,000 m. Our acclimatization programs are designed to help your body adjust progressively.
4. Is a certified guide required
Yes. For safety and legal reasons, glaciated peaks like Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, Cayambe, and Antisana require an ASEGUIM/UIAGM certified mountain guide. All our guides meet this standard and have extensive experience in the Andes.
5. What gear do I need?
For glacier climbs, you need:
- Double insulated mountaineering boots
- Crampons
- Ice axe
- Climbing harness
- Helmet
- Headlamp
- Warm base layers, down jacket, and waterproof outer layers
- Gloves, hat, sunglasses, backpack
We offer rental equipment if you don’t own the necessary gear.
6. Can I rent mountain equipment in Ecuador?
Yes! We provide high-quality rental equipment at our base in El Chaupi, including boots, crampons, helmets, harnesses, and more. Let us know your sizes in advance so we can reserve your gear.
7. What happens if I don’t reach the summit?
Reaching the summit is a goal, but your safety is the priority. If weather, altitude, or health conditions require turning back, our guides will make the best decision for your well-being. We always aim to provide a rewarding and safe experience, regardless of the summit outcome.
8. How many climbers per guide?
- 1:1 or 2:1 ratio for glacier climbs (1 guide for every 1 or 2 climbers).
- This is the international safety standard for climbs on Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and similar peaks.
9. Where do we stay before and after the climbs?
We use Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge, located in El Chaupi (3,300 m / 10,827 ft), as our base for acclimatization and logistics. The lodge offers:
- Comfortable beds
- Hot showers
- Healthy meals
- Breathtaking views of Iliniza, Corazón, and Cotopaxi
- It’s also the perfect spot for nearby acclimatization hikes like Saquihua (3,900 m) and Corazón (4,786 m).
10. How difficult are the climbs?
- Cotopaxi (5,897 m): Intermediate – requires good fitness and acclimatization.
- Chimborazo (6,268 m): Advanced – higher altitude, longer summit push, more demanding.
- Cayambe (5,790 m): Intermediate to advanced – technical sections and glacier travel.
- Iliniza Norte (5,126 m): Non-glaciated – great acclimatization peak.
- Iliniza Sur (5,263 m): Technical glacier climb – advanced climbers only.
11. What fitness level is required?
You should be in good physical condition, with experience hiking for 6–8 hours with a backpack. Cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance are essential. We recommend training hikes, running, or cycling at least 4–6 weeks before your trip.
12. Do I need travel or climbing insurance?
Yes. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes high-altitude mountaineering and emergency evacuation. Make sure your policy clearly covers activities over 5,000 meters.
13. What if I’m traveling solo?
No problem! Many of our climbers come solo. You can:
- Join an existing group (based on dates and availability), or
- Book a private guide for a custom experience.
- Let us know your travel dates and goals—we’ll find the best option for you.
14. How do I get to Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge or the starting point?
We offer private transportation from Quito or Latacunga directly to the lodge or trailhead. You can also take public buses to El Chaupi, but we recommend our logistics support for ease and safety.
15. Can I combine several climbs in one trip?
Absolutely! We offer multi-peak packages such as:
- Cotopaxi + Chimborazo (9-day tour)
- Cotopaxi Summit + Acclimatization Package (5-7 days)
- Climb Iliniza Norte, Cayambe, and Cotopaxi in one trip
- These allow you to gradually acclimatize and increase your summit success.
