A full-day guided climb up Chimborazo’s high slopes to Laguna Condor Cocha—expect thin air, wide sky, and dramatic alpine terrain. This practical guide explains what you’ll see and how to prepare for a 12+ hour, high-altitude day trip from Quito.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the minivan into thin air and the mountain takes a breath back at you — Chimborazo’s flanks cut the sky into cold, bright planes. The route climbs past tussock grass and peat bogs, passing the Hermanos Carriel shelter (≈4,850 m) and the Whymper refuge near 5,000 m before opening to the high basin that holds Laguna Condor Cocha at roughly 5,100 m.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
12–13 hours
Fitness Level
Should have good aerobic fitness, prior high-altitude hiking experience, and ability to walk several hours with elevation gain.
Wildlife
History
Chimborazo has been an important landmark for Andean peoples and was the focus of early scientific and mountaineering expeditions; it’s also often described as the point farthest from the earth’s center due to equatorial bulge.
Conservation
The area sits within the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, which balances grazing, wildlife protection, and eco-tourism — stay on trails and pack out waste to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the Adventure in Chimborazo: Hiking and Ascent from Quito today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize first
Spend 24–48 hours in Quito or a similar altitude before the trip to reduce risk of altitude sickness.
Layer for extremes
Temperatures swing; pack an insulated jacket, windproof shell, and a warm hat even if the day starts mild.
Hydrate and snack
Drink regularly — small sips often — and bring salty snacks to help maintain electrolytes at altitude.
Good boots and poles
Stiff-soled hiking boots and trekking poles improve stability on rocky, wet, or wind-blasted sections.
Stiff-soled hiking boots
Provide traction and ankle support on rocky and mixed terrain.
Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
Protects against strong winds and cold at 4,500–5,100 m.
Sun protection (sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen)
High-altitude UV is intense; protect skin and eyes throughout the day.
Trekking poles
Help with balance and reduce strain on knees during ascent and descent.