Cayambe (5790 m) is a dormant volcano, the highest point of the equator line in the world and third highest mountain in Ecuador. It is beautifully located on the Eastern range, between the valley known as the “Avenue of the Volcanoes” and the Amazon basin.
The British mountaineer Edward Whimper, Juan Antonio Corral, Luis Carrel, Verita and Ceballos made the first recorded ascent in 1880. It has one of the most extensive glaciers in the country, and the climb is quite long, though it is not technically difficult. The glacier crossing has to be done carefully, as it has a few sections that are crevassed and some others that present avalanche risk, which demands a good reading of the terrain.
Due to its location, on clear days the view over the neighboring valleys and volcanoes is stunning . An experience not to be missed!
In line with our philosophy, the programs described below are designed to achieve a degree of acclimatization while enjoying the climb of other summits. The goal is to be well trained and acclimatized, in order to have the best possible options during the summit bid. In this program the ascents prior to Cayambe are progressive and all aim to provide a good overall experience while visiting different 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) |
