A nine-day alpine circuit from Quito to Chimborazo: warm thermal springs, overnight refuges, glacier travel on Cayambe, and a summit push on Chimborazo. Expect midnight starts, technical glacier sections, and serious altitude management.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You stand above Quito before dawn, the city lights a string behind you and a cold wind pushing at your gloves. The cable car hums up to 4,100 m and the ridge unfurls—sandy bootsteps, thin air, and a skyline ruled by teeth of ice and basalt. Over nine days this itinerary moves from urban plazas to thermal springs, glacier crests, and Chimborazo’s high dome: landscapes that make altitude feel like an active participant.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
9 days
Fitness Level
Good aerobic fitness with prior high‑altitude trekking experience; ability to carry a 8–12 kg daypack and move steadily for 6–10 hours.
Wildlife
History
The Avenue of the Volcanoes has long been central to Andean communities; many villages retain Quechua traditions and high‑altitude pastoralism dating back centuries.
Conservation
High‑altitude páramo and tropical glaciers are fragile; follow leave‑no‑trace, avoid campfires, and pack out all waste to reduce local impact.
Reserve your spot on the Ecuador Adventure Volcanoes Rucupichincha Cayambe and Chimborazo today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before summit nights
Spend the scheduled acclimatization days—short hikes and an early cable car ascent help your body adjust to 4,000–5,000 m before summit attempts.
Practice crampon and ice‑axe use
You’ll cross glaciers; being comfortable front‑pointing and self‑arresting reduces risk and conserves energy on steep ice.
Layer for cold and sun
High‑altitude solar radiation and night temperatures both bite—use windproof/insulating layers plus a sun hat and sunglasses.
Hydrate and eat regularly
Cold suppresses thirst; set alarms to drink and refuel during long summit pushes to prevent headache and fatigue.
Mountaineering boots (B2/B3)
Stiff, insulated boots are required for crampon fit and cold summit conditions.
Crampons & ice axe
Even if provided, bring familiar personal gear or ensure proper fit during kit checks.
Layered clothing system
Breathable base layers, insulating mid‑layer, and windproof shell manage wide temperature swings.
Sunglasses and high‑SPF sunscreen
Strong equatorial sun and reflected glacier radiation make eye and skin protection critical.