Cayambe (5,790 m) is a dormant volcano, the highest point on the equator in the world, and the third-highest mountain in Ecuador. It is beautifully situated in the Eastern Andes, between the valley known as the “Avenue of the Volcanoes” and the Amazon basin.
The first recorded ascent was made in 1880 by British mountaineer Edward Whimper, along with Juan Antonio Corral, Luis Carrel, Verita, and Ceballos. Cayambe features one of the most extensive glaciers in the country. The climb is long but not technically difficult; however, careful glacier travel is required, as certain sections are crevassed and others present avalanche risk, demanding good terrain assessment and experience.
Thanks to its location, on clear days the views of neighboring valleys and volcanoes are breathtaking—an experience not to be missed!
In line with our philosophy, the programs described below are designed to promote proper acclimatization while enjoying climbs of other summits. The goal is to be well-prepared and acclimatized to maximize your chances during the summit attempt. In this program, the ascents leading up to Cayambe are progressive and carefully planned to provide a rich overall experience while visiting diverse locations.
| Day 1 | Climb: Pasochoa Volcano (4164 m) |
| Day 2 | Ilinizas – Nuevos Horizontes hut (4677 m) |
| Day 3 | Climb: North Iliniza Volcano (5126 m) |
| Day 4 | Cayambe’s mountain hut (4621 m) – Glacier training (4680 m) |
| Day 5 | Climb: Cayambe Volcano (5790 m) |
