CLIMBING EXPEDITIONS

Perched high in the Cordillera of the Andes between the Amazon and the Pacific Ocean, Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America, yet it contains an astonishing variety of physical extremes, with towering mountains, immense tracts of green, ice, water, fire and extended areas of cultivation.

The mountains of Ecuador are divided into two separate ranges and are dominated by several volcanoes, the Lords of the Andes; these brooding giants are a source of mystery to the Indigenous who live in their foothills.

 

All of the programs described are carefully designed by climbers and for climbers - with or without experience. The itineraries include a few lower mountains for acclimatization before attempting major peaks.

 

Gaining altitude gradually from 3.000m to over 5.000m helps most people to get used to the altitude and to experience less of those commonly present altitude sickness' symptoms. Remember that fitness can't replace acclimatisation.

 

Although climbing in Ecuador does require a good physical shape, getting well acclimatized is the key to the successful and enjoyable climbing.

 

Highlights   

• Easy access from Quito.
• Suitable for beginners up to experienced mountaineers.
• Excellent as acclimatization program before attempting higher peaks.

 

What´s included?

INCLUDED:

• Private transportation.
• Entrance fees.
• All meals while in the mountain.
• Professional-bilingual Mountain guide ASEGUIM/UIAGM.

 

NOT INCLUDED:

• Meals in cities.
• Additional transportation.
• Personal hiking gear.
• Insurance.
• Accommodations in cities.
• Additional activities.

 

Difficulty Rating

Our trekking activities and mountaineering programs are rated in two major aspects: physical and technical.

 

For both of them we divide into four levels: easy, moderate, intermediate and strenuous.
The levels are assigned depending on the number of walking hours, elevation gain and the technical terrain on the mountain and walking area.

 

EASY
The hiker should cover up to four hours of walking on a marked and easy trail with few slopes up to 35 degrees. Technical equipment is not required. The hiker must be in good physical condition.

 

MODERATE
Hikes usually extend from four to six hours on a path at times not well marked with one or two delicate steps where a safety rope will be necessary. It is mandatory very good physical condition.

 

INTERMEDIATE
This case generally applies to our mountaineering trips where the effective walking hours exceed six and can be extended up to nine hours round trip. Technically speaking, these activities generally occur in areas covered with snow and glacier where technical mountaineering equipment is mandatory.

 

STRENUOUS
Refers to the longest mountain routes and physically more demanding but not necessarily the most technical. The total number of hiking hours exceeds nine and can reach up to twelve between climbing to the summit and returning to the mountain hut or camp. It is also necessary use ropes, crampons, ice axes, ice screws, etc.

 

Departures
Climbable year-round; however the best climbing months are: November through February.

Rainiest Months: April and May.

 

If you are looking for a different trip, we would love to help you creating a plan that meets your requirements. Please do not hesitate to ask. For more information contact us at: info@andeanchallenge.com or sunandsnow2002@hotmail.com

 

NOTES ON THE ITINERARY: Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, the day-by-day activities and camping locations listed on this itinerary are subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including group pace, acclimatization, weather, trail, on road conditions and/or water availability at the campsites according to the time of the year. Hiking distances and altitudes are approximate, and times indicated are net hiking or driving times that do not include lunch breaks, rest stops, time to explore the area, etc. This program is suitable for physically fit participants accustomed to outdoor activities. Contact Us.