The Chimborazo summit climb is a challenging and rewarding experience for avid mountaineers. It is not only Ecuador’s highest peak, but also the earth’s closest point to the sun!
Formed by two ancient volcanoes, Chimborazo is a massive glaciated mountain with five summits in total. Our ascent along the Guargualla route aims to the Veintimilla summit (6227 m. / 20.429 ft) and the maximum Whymper summit (6263 m. / 20548 ft.)
Starting the ascent before midnight, the moonlight and a blanket of stars will accompany you. You will summit at sunrise, the best time for stunning views of the snowcapped peaks of the Volcano Avenue.
Riobamba
This climb requires an excellent fitness level, high-altitude acclimatization, and previous glacier experience (using crampons, ice axe and rope).
You can choose between one long ascent (7 – 8 hours) from the Carrel hut, or take the Chimborazo High Camp option, reducing the final ascent to 5 – 6 hours which improves your chances to summit!
Chimborazo is climbable all year round; the climbing route is subject to variations due to – often sudden – changes in weather and snow conditions. In extended dry spells there will be rocky and icy sections, turning the ascent more technical. This is why we do not recommend this ascent for beginners.
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Riobamba at 10.30 a.m. for the gear check in our office. Then we depart for the 1-hour transfer to Chimborazo Reserve, with a stop on the way for lunch. Our vehicle takes you all the way to the Carrel hut at 4850 m. / 15912 ft.
You will have the afternoon to rest in the refuge. Our mountain guide will give a safety briefing with indications about the climbing route, expected weather and snow conditions, use of equipment. Early dinner and time for a true power nap, as we will start the ascent at 22.30 p.m.
From the refuge we hike for 2 – 2,5 hours to the Stubel Basecamp at 5350 m. / 17.553 ft., carrying our backpacks with climbing gear (optionally you can hire a porter to take up the gear). Settle down in dome tent, rest and enjoy the magnificent sunset. Our mountain guide will give a safety briefing with indications about the climbing route, expected weather and snow conditions, use of equipment. After dinner you can sleep several hours; we will start the final ascent at midnight.
The first part of the climb is a mixture of boulders, rocks, snow and ice. From the large rock formation El Castillo (5350 m. / 17.553 ft.) we continue over the glaciated ridge. The average steepness is 30 – 40 degrees, with some icy sections of 45 degrees, until the first summit (Veintimillia, at 6227 m. / 20.429 ft.). With good snow conditions, sufficient time, and if you still have enough energy, you can continue 1 more hour to the Whymper summit (6263 m. / 20.548 ft.) The descent will take 3 – 4 hours. Guests of the high camp will have breakfast in the camp, otherwise you hike down straight to the refuge for breakfast.
From the parking lot transfer back to Riobamba. Arrive at 12.00 p.m.
