Length:
2 or 5 days

Skill Level:
Intermediate

Max Guide Ratio:
2:1

Recommended Season:
October to February; May to July,

Prior Trip Suggestions:
Fuya Fuya,
Imbabura,
Cotacachi

Follow Up Programs:
Cotopaxi,
Antisana,
Chimborazo

Trip Highlights:
Traveling across the largest and most beautiful glaciers in Ecuador.

Practicing glacier techniques and alpine ice climbing on the massive ice formations and many crevasses near the peak.

Cayambe

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note:

Like all snowcapped peaks in Ecuador, avalanches are common during the day due to the more direct angle of the sunlight characteristic of regions this close to the Equatorial Line. As a safety measure, we will climb at night and reach the summit by 7:00 a.m., this will enable our safe return to base camp before the snow pack becomes too warm and soft.

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trip itinerary

Day 1:
Drive for two hours up to the Bergé, Ruales, Oleas Refuge (4,650 m, 15,257 ft) in the Cayambe-Coca National Park. Here we will have a boxed lunch while we get used to the altitude. Then review climbing skills and safety and prepare our equipment.

Day 2:
Our day starts early to ensure we have enough time to reach the summit by 7:00 am. We begin climbing up to the edge of the glacier to meet up with the standard route. Under good weather conditions, we will make the ascent in roughly 6 hours. At the summit we will enjoy the views then begin our 3 to 4 hour descent back to the hut. Then drive back to Quito.

Note:
Every effort will be made to adhere to the itinerary, but unforeseen circumstances may require last minute changes. Weather conditions, road conditions, vehicle breakdowns and the health of climbers can all contribute to schedule alterations. Please be prepared to be flexible when necessary.

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Climbing Cayambe (5,790 m / 18,996 ft) is one of the most rewarding mountaineering experiences in Ecuador. Located 70 km northeast of Quito, Cayambe is the third-highest peak in the country and the only major mountain in the world directly crossed by the equator. As a result, the climb not only offers stunning glaciated terrain but also the unique opportunity to stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern.

Cayambe is an active stratovolcano, but its last eruption occurred in the late 18th century. Therefore, today it is best known as a glacier-climbing destination. Its large ice cap and crevasses provide the perfect setting for both beginner mountaineers and experienced climbers.

Climbing Cayambe

The ascent of Cayambe requires glacier equipment, proper acclimatization, and excellent physical condition. While the route is technically moderate, changing weather, crevasses, and hard ice conditions can make the climb more demanding. Consequently, a solid preparation program is highly recommended.

The climb can be completed in 2 days if the participant already has glacier travel experience and good acclimatization. However, for most climbers, we suggest 3 to 5-day programs that include:

Acclimatization treks on nearby volcanoes under 5,000 m.
Glacier training sessions to practice crampon use, ice axe techniques, and rope safety.
High-altitude overnights to adapt progressively to the Andes.

Main Route to the Summit

There is one main route for climbing Cayambe, which starts from the Ruales Oleas Berge refuge at 4,600 m. From this hut, the summit push usually begins around midnight, allowing climbers to reach the peak at sunrise. During the ascent, climbers traverse glaciers, cross crevasses, and steadily climb toward the impressive summit dome.

Climbing Cayambe Experience

In addition, many climbers combine Cayambe with other Ecuadorian volcanoes, such as Cotopaxi or Chimborazo, as part of an extended mountaineering program. Moreover, the mountain is often chosen as a training climb before tackling higher Andean peaks.

Climbing Cayambe is not only a physical challenge but also a cultural and natural experience. For example, the surrounding Cayambe Coca National Park is home to páramo landscapes, unique flora, and a variety of Andean wildlife.

Start Planning Your Cayambe Adventure

With professional guides and carefully designed itineraries, your dream of climbing Cayambe can become a safe and memorable reality. Programs from 2 to 5 days are available year-round, always including acclimatization and expert instruction to maximize your success.