Chimborazo Extension

Our 3 day Chimborazo Extension can be added to the end of either our Cotopaxi Express or Cayambe and Cotopaxi Expedtions. The climb of Chimborazo is a worthy and rewarding undertaking after acclimatizing on the other volcanoes of Ecuador. At 20,703 feet this is Ecuador's highest peak. It provides an ideal objective for climbers to test their skills and stamina on a 6000-meter peak. Our trip begins after a restful period in the relatively thick air of Banos (6,500 ft). From Banos, we travel to the Whymper Hut to begin our climb of Chimborazo.

From the Whymper Hut (16,400 ft.), the standard route up the western flank makes a gradual ascent (30-35 degree slopes) up a glacial ramp to gain the long summit ridge. The technical challenges involve negotiating crevasses, a couple of short 40 degree headwalls (100-300 ft.), and sustained travel on firm glacial snow for more than 4000 feet! We depart in the middle of the night, ensuring that our 12-14 hour roundtrip is completed before the intense equatorial sunlights softens the glaciers.

*A note about the Normal Route on Chimborazo:
In recent years, the Normal Route has at times been impassable due to specific route conditions. Given this fact, we may consider climbing the mountain from the North side, which offers more predictable route conditions.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Travel to the Whymper Hut.
Day 2: Summit day on Chimborazo. Return to Quito.
Day 3: Return home to the US.

Additional Information

Included in cost: An AMGA Certified or Trained Guide, all ground transportation, hotel stays in Ecuador, tents and food while on the mountain as well as all group climbing and camping equipment.

Not included in cost: Food and drinks in towns, personal climbing and camping equipment, and international air fare, costs of a personal nature, extra hotels or transportation due to illness, injury, or early return.

Prerequisites: You must have completed the first section of this expedition which include climbs of Cayambe and Cotopaxi. Participants should have prior, basic mountaineering experience. They should be comfortable with self arrest, walking in crampons, and have basic roped climbing experience. If you do not possess these skills, or need review, we recommend doing a skills course with us in Colorado prior to your Peru trip.

Registration and Cancellation: You will need to fill out an International Expedition Application, cancellation policy agreement, and liability waiver, and send it to us with a 50% deposit 60 days before the trip date. Balance is due 30 days prior to trip departure date. Please click on our Register link to access the required forms.