Ecuador Mountaineering School
Brush up your climbing skills in the Andes and ascend to 20,703 feet / 6310 meters
Our hands-on Ecuador Mountaineering School gives participants a solid base of adventure skills that are applied to high-altitude ascents of Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak (20,703 ft / 6310 m). Whether your goal is to prepare for bigger climbs, gain high altitude experience, or get the skills needed to climb on your own, without guides, this course accomplishes it all. Our Ecuador program provides the benchmark for defining “Mountain Madness-style” — between the hard work of the school and climbs, you’ll enjoy amazing food, comfortable, unique accommodations, and the support of our highly experienced staff.
Ecuador Climbing School: What to Expect
Going back to school has never been so good! You’ll be well-fed; you’ll work hard, but at night sleep in a comfortable hut or cozy hacienda; you’ll be challenged mentally and physically, and may even question why you chose this as the way to spend your vacation time. But when all is said and done, you’ll go home as a tried-and-true mountaineer with a wealth of new skills and experience — and like any educational experience, new opportunities will now be possible, out there waiting for you in the mountains of the world.
The mountains of Ecuador’s famous “Avenue of the Volcanoes” offer some of the finest mountaineering objectives in the Andes of South America and are set amid a fascinating cultural backdrop, all making this one of the best possible adventures for those looking to get into the big mountain experience.
Looking for more of an “Expedition-style” school, check the Bolivia Mountaineering Course
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Course Perks
If you are looking to get a jump start on climbing the bigger peaks of the world, but are relatively new to climbing or have only a bit of experience, this course does two important things for you. One, you get trained in the fundamentals of mountaineering and you’ll have skills that can get you on on rope team with confidence. And two, you’ll gain some high altitude experience and begin the process of understanding how your body performs at high altitude, not to mention gaining some valuable mental tools for dealing with all the challenges.
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Description
This trip combines abundant learning opportunities with practical application of skills on Cayambe, Cotopaxi, the highest active volcano in the world, and 20,703-foot / 6310-meter Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak. (Note that if Cotopaxi is closed due to volcanic activity we will use Antisana or the Illinizas as alternative objectives.) This popular course is designed for individuals aspiring to learn the fundamental skills of snow, ice, and glacier climbing. Our goal is to develop self-reliant alpine climbers.
With easy access from a comfortable hut, the glaciers of Cayambe offer an outstanding venue for our Mountaineering School. Huge crevasses, complex icefalls, and seracs provide participants the ideal setting for learning ice climbing, crevasse rescue, and a variety of other fundamental skills. With the comprehensive curriculum and some hands on expedition climbing this trip is one of our most rewarding South American adventures.
Ecuador Mountaineering School Course Curriculum Includes:
- Snow climbing, ice axe positioning, and moving in balance
- Self arrest techniques
- Snow and ice anchor selection, construction, and equalization
- Ice climbing and crampon techniques
- Prussiking and team crevasse rescue practice
- Rappelling and rope management
- Glaciology and crevasse pattern prediction
- Navigation using maps, altimeters, and compasses
- Roped glacier travel and route finding through crevassed areas
- Mountain weather, alpine ecology, hazard assessment, and Leave No Trace Ethics
- High altitude physiology and other related expeditionary topics
Sign up for our Ecuador Mountaineering School 4‑Day class and climb Cayambe & Cotopaxi, or take it a step further and include Chimborazo (in addition to the rest!) to your trip, too.
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The Climbs
Ecuador Mountaineering School: Guided Treks on Cayambe, Cotopaxi, and Chimborazo
Before our ascent of the first objective, 18,997-foot / 5790-meter Cayambe, we have the option of several acclimatization hikes. With the group beginning to acclimatize, we then journey to Cayambe where accessible glaciers offer an ideal environment to review our skills before the ascent.
Our next objective is to climb the world’s highest active volcano, Cotopaxi. The mountain stands at 19,348 feet / 5897 meters in Ecuador’s Central Cordillera, and towers high above three other major peaks, Ruminahui (15,602 ft / 4755 m), Sincholagua (16,360 ft / 4987 m), Quilindana (16,134 ft / 4918 m) and the Paramo, an area reminiscent of the Scottish moors. We drive into Cotopaxi National Park, first passing through pine forests and then the Paramo. You will see a wide variety of animals, such as wild horses, llamas, and an abundance of bird life, including the magnificent Andean condor. From the Paramo, we will drive to 15,092 feet / 4600 meters where we begin our travel by foot. A forty-five minute hike brings us to the Jose Ribas Hut (15,749 ft / 4800 m) at the base of Cotopaxi. The following day we rest and prepare for our climb.
Our summit attempt begins on non-glaciated snow slopes that lead to a glacial platform at 17,000 feet / 5182 meters. As the morning progresses, we watch the sunrise over the parkland, tropical forests, and the heavily glaciated, 18,714-foot / 5704-meter Antisana. We travel over more complex areas of the glacier, crossing snow bridges, skirting large crevasses, and ascending moderate terrain to reach the summit cone. Once there, 35 – 40 degree snow slopes and a short ridge walk brings us onto Ecuador’s second highest summit.
After our summit, we spend a relaxing night at a nearby hotel before driving south to Chimborazo, a tremendous, multi-summited mountain that rises almost 11,000 feet above the central valley. The following day we drive to a farmhouse near the trailhead and prepare for our final climbing objective. The next morning we will be supported by porters and/or pack animals to establish a high camp on the flanks of Chimborazo. Beginning at midnight, we attempt the summit of Ecuador’s highest peak!
Our route up the eastern flank is moderately steep and although the climb on this route is not considered technical, the diversity of climbing techniques used, as well as the peak’s great height, make it an incredibly rewarding ascent. On top you are greeted by the morning sun and magnificent views of some of the more than 30 volcanoes that dot the landscape and rise far above the patchwork of fields where potatoes, corn, and a variety of other crops are grown by the various indigenous groups of Ecuador. To the east lies the jungle; the green wilds shrouded in mystery by the billowing clouds and rain that support one of the most complex natural systems in the world — the Amazon Basin. Later that day you will be swinging in a hammock at one of the charming haciendas Mountain Madness groups enjoy, reveling in your ascent earlier that day to Ecuador’s highest summit. Such are the wonders in store for visitors to this peaceful, very friendly country in South America.
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Unique Accomodations
Ecuador Volcanoes: Where You’ll Eat, Play and Stay
Your trip to Ecuador begins at the Hacienda Rumiloma. This unique hacienda will help you settle into the Ecuador countryside quite comfortably. Each casita boasts a minimum of 600 square feet and is filled with a unique mix of antiques, art and collectibles from the far corners of Ecuador.
As you travel further into the mountains you’ll stay in more of Ecuador’s distinctive haciendas. Built during the colonial period, these historic settlements offer excellent living and dining accommodations. Most haciendas still operate as ranches, farms or plantations, making your stay an excellent opportunity to observe working life in Ecuador.
When you reach the town of Otavalo you’ll stay at the Hotel Pinsaqui, a historic hacienda established in 1790. Built and decorated with a sense of grandeur, the Hotel Pinsaqui has a colorful story to tell. A number of famous people have used the hotel as a haven, including South American liberator Simon Bolivar. Today, the Pinsaqui offers well-appointed suites and a restaurant serving Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
Committed to protecting the beautiful flora and fauna that surround this exquisite hacienda, Los Mortiños offers a unique place for researchers and travelers. The hacienda grounds is one of the most spectacular viewpoints for the Avenue of the Volcanoes and offers comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms and hot water.
When you leave the haciendas for your summit climbs the Mountain Madness philosophy of traveling comfortably goes with you. On each summit climb you will be sleeping in an Ecuadorian mountain hut. When you stay in these huts our guides will be your host and you’ll enjoy the creativity of their cooking skills.
Looking other Ecuador mountaineering guided trips? Check out our Cotopaxi Express 5‑Day“Eating Expedition” where you can summit the world’s highest active volcano, and satiate your efforts with delicious local cuisine.
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Chimborazo High Camp Bonus
As if climbing a 6,000+ meter/20,700-foo peakt isn’t a tall enough order by itself, you will be attempting it after having done your coursework and climbed several other peaks as part of your acclimatization program; so while you may be feeling more acclimatized and well-schooled, you will still be somewhat tired. Previously our climbs of Chimborazo began in the early hours of the night from the Whymper Hut, giving climbers a more than 4,000-foot/1200+-meter ascent. This proved very difficult for many. As a result we are now using a high camp to help our teams get the best possible advantage at reaching the summit, cutting the summit climb in almost half.
![The final climb on Chimborazo with high camp]()
Have a Question? Contact Us!
Price
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Ecuador Mountaineering School
$4,575 – 15 Days / Includes travel time
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Single Supplement (I want my own room) – $600
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Ecuador Mountaineering School w/Chimborazo Extension
$5,275 – 18 Days / Includes travel time
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Single Supplement (I want my own room) – $750
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Climbing permit fees
- Four scheduled hotel nights in Quito(double occupancy)
- One additional hotel night in Quito (double occupancy) for the Chimborazo extension
- Four scheduled hacienda nights (double occupancy)
- Scheduled restaurant meals in Quito
- All food while on the climb
- All group climbing gear, tents and cooking gear
- All expedition staff including porters and pack animals
- Airport transfers
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Ecuador entry visa and airport fees
- Lunch Day 4
- Dinner Day 14 & 17
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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Ecuador Mountaineering School 2026-27
- Jun 7, 2026 — Jun 21, 2026
- Nov 21, 2026 — Dec 5, 2026
- Jan 10, 2027 — Jan 24, 2027
- Feb 14, 2027 — Feb 28, 2027
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Ecuador Mountaineering School w/ Chimborazo Extension 2026-27
- Jun 7, 2026 — Jun 24, 2026
- Nov 21, 2026 — Dec 8, 2026
- Jan 10, 2027 — Jan 27, 2027
- Feb 14, 2027 — Mar 3, 2027
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Women Only Ecuador Mountaineering School 2026
- Dec 19, 2026 — Jan 2, 2027
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Women Only Ecuador Mountaineering School w/ Chimborazo Extension 2026
- Dec 19, 2026 — Jan 5, 2027
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with a departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip you will need to arrive in Quito, Ecuador on Day 1, which in most cases will have arrival times late evening; anywhere from 7 pm to 11:30 pm. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Ecuador Mountaineering School Day by Day
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Day 1
Arrive Quito
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Arrive Quito. You will be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Hacienda San Jose de Puembo.
No meals included. -
Day 2
Quito City Tour & Gear Check
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Today includes a guided city tour of Quito, exploring the historic Old Town and its iconic colonial churches, along with time at elevation to begin gentle acclimatization to the city’s high altitude. A gear check with your guides will also take place to ensure everyone is prepared for the days ahead. Overnight at Hacienda San José de Puembo.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 3
Acclimatization Hike Up Ruco Pichincha
Elevation: 15,643 ft / 4768 m
Acclimatization hike and rock scramble to the summit of Rucu Pichincha (4,768 m / 15,643 ft). From the top, enjoy expansive views over Quito and the Avenue of the Volcanoes, with sightlines to many of Ecuador’s major peaks. The hike typically takes 3 – 4 hours to reach the summit and approximately 2 hours to descend. Overnight at Hacienda San José de Puembo.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 4
Otavalo Historic Indigenous Market
Elevation: 8,530 ft / 2600 m
Drive from Quito to Otavalo (2hrs), with lunch en route at a scenic location offering great views. Upon arrival, sip a coffee and stroll through one of the largest indigenous markets in South America, known for its vibrant textiles, fruits, and local handicrafts. Optional hikes are available as time allows. Overnight at Hacienda Pinsaqui.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 5
Yanacocha Lodge
Elevation: 12,795 ft / 3900 m
Begin instruction on Cayambe with a basic glacier school. Overnight at the Yanacocha Lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 6
Cayambe Hut
Elevation: 15,091 feet / 4600 meters
After getting situated we hike to the glacier and begin learning snow climbing techniques. Proper use of the ice axe, traveling in balance, self-belay, and self-arrest will all be covered. The afternoon is dedicated to teaching students the essential skills of glacier travel, such as navigation and route finding, glaciology, hazard assessment, knots, spacing of climbers, and rope management. We will also begin learning about placing various types of snow protection for use in the construction of snow anchors, belay techniques, and crevasse rescue. Overnight in the hut for the next three nights.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 7
Cayambe Hut
Elevation: 15,091 feet / 4600 meters
An introduction to rappelling and steep snow and ice climbing will be presented with an emphasis on French, German, and American hybrid styles of crampon technique. Every student will also learn and practice self-crevasse rescue (prussiking).
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 8
Cayambe Hut
Elevation: 15,091 feet / 4600 meters
Our main focus for today is crevasse rescue. Students will get more practice placing pieces of snow protection and bollards and will then learn to equalize them to create a “bomber” anchor. Students will then learn the fundamentals of rescue pulley systems and then move on to more advanced pulley systems. A variety of scenarios will be addressed. We will conclude the day with a discussion of the mountain environment and methods of evaluating subjective and objective hazards.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 9
Yanacocha Lodge
Elevation: 12,795 ft / 3900 m
Descend to Yanacocha Lodge to rest, hydrate and prepare for the upcoming climb of Cayambe. Overnight at Yanacocha Lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 10
Cayambe Hut
Elevation: 15,091 feet / 4600 meters
Return to hut and for final preparations for the climb.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 11
Cayambe Summit Day
Elevation: 18,997 feet / 5790 meters
After an early morning departure, climb the crevassed slopes of the Cayambe Glacier to the summit. After approximately 6 – 7 hours, reach the summit of Cayambe (5,790 m / 18,997 ft). Following a 3‑hour descent, enjoy breakfast at the hut before returning to Quito and our hotel, San José de Puembo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 12
Tambopaxi Lodge
Elevation: 12,467 feet / 3800 meters
Today, enjoy a scenic drive from Quito to Cotopaxi National Park. En route, stop for a traditional Ecuadorian lunch with local chagras (cowboys). Overnight at Tambopaxi, a modern mountain lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 13
Jose Ribas Hut
Elevation: 15,748 feet / 4800 meters
After breakfast at Tambopaxi Lodge, drive to approximately 15,000 ft / 4,572 m. From there, take a short 45-minute hike to the José Ribas Hut, where we rest and prepare for the climb. A midnight wake-up call awaits everyone.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 14
Cotopaxi Summit / Quito
Elevation: 19,347 ft / 5897 m
Departing around midnight, begin the climb by hiking up scree slopes until reaching the glacier. From here, ascend moderate snow to the Yanasacha Wall, a steeper section just below the crater rim. After climbing this final pitch, reach the summit of Cotopaxi (5,897 m / 19,347 ft), with the opportunity to look into the crater or take in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and Chimborazo, our final objective. The ascent typically takes 6 – 7 hours, with approximately 3 hours for the descent. This evening, return to Quito for an overnight stay.
Those continuing on to Chimborazo will return to Tambopaxi to overnight and rest up for the big climb ahead.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 15
Fly Home or Chimborazo
Elevation: 12,895 ft / 3931 m
Depart Quito and fly home.
For those continuing on to climb Chimborazo, drive to Chimborazo Lodge with lunch en route. After approximately 3 – 4 hours, arrive at the lodge and relax while enjoying views of Chimborazo’s south face, grazing llamas, and the lodge’s mountaineering museum décor.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. If the conditions on Chimborazo or Cotopaxi are unfavorable, clients will have the option to choose another objective, such as Antisana or the Illinizas.
w/ Chimborazo Extension Day by Day
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Day 16
Chimborazo High Camp
Elevation: 17,552 ft / 5350 m
Today we drive approximately 30 minutes to check in with park rangers, followed by a short additional drive to meet the porter team. Hike to high camp, typically taking 2 – 3 hours. Upon arrival, rest and prepare for the summit attempt, with an early dinner ahead of an alpine start.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 17
Chimborazo Summit / Quito
Elevation: 20,548 ft / 6263 m
Departing around midnight, hike up scree slopes until reaching the glacier. After negotiating a few steeper sections on the glacier, arrive at Ventimilla Summit. From here, it is approximately one hour to the true summit of Chimborazo (6,263 m / 20,548 ft), the highest point in Ecuador. The ascent typically takes about 7 hours, with 3 – 4 hours for the descent. After enjoying the views, descend to high camp for breakfast, then continue down to the vehicles and return to Quito for a celebratory dinner at a nice local restaurant. Overnight at San José de Puembo.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner -
Day 18
Fly Home
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Depart Quito and fly home.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. If the conditions on Chimborazo or Cotopaxi are unfavorable, clients will have the option to choose another objective, such as Antisana or the Illinizas.
Equipment for Ecuador Mountaineering School
This is a comprehensive gear list. Depending on conditions for your trip, your guide may decide that some items are not needed.
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Carrying Gear
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Summit pack (40-50L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume between 2,500-3,500 cubic inches (40-50 liters) serves most people’s needs well
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Large duffel bag (150L)
One at least 7,000 cubic inch capacity (150 liters). Must be durable and waterproof
Examples:
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (15-20F)
One down or synthetic bag rated from 15-20°F /-9 to -7°C
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
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Climbing Gear
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
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Locking carabiners (2)
Two large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
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Non-locking carabiners (2)
2 non-locking carabiners. wired straight-gates are recommended
Examples:
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
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Double length nylon runner (48" or 120cm)
be sure to get nylon not dyneema (18mm width)
Examples:
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Single length runner (24" or 60cm)
be sure to get nylon not dyneema (18mm width)
Examples:
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30’ of perlon accessory cord (6mm)
30 feet of 6mm cord
Examples:
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
Examples:
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
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Ski goggles
To fit over glacier glasses in high wind. Rose or amber lenses
Examples:
Smith, Oakley
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Hands
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Liner gloves
Two pairs thin fleece or synthetic
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Warm gloves
One pair fleece or wool with water resistant shell
Examples:
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Light hiking boots or trail shoes
For acclimatization hikes
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Gaiters SA
Make sure they will fit over boots (if not already integrated in boots)
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Mountaineering Boots SA
Depending on your future mountaineering endeavors, your boot choice could differ. Boots such as the La Sportiva Spantik, G2 or G6, and Scarpa Phantom 6000 are a good investment for those who are pursuing other high-altitude climbs (such as Aconcagua or Denali). The Koflach Degre would be the choice for those looking for a warm boot in moderate conditions. If you are looking at hybrid leather/plastic boots, make sure it is rated for 6,000-meter peak climbs or winter mountaineering.
Examples:
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
2x Synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
A non-cotton baselayer top. Wool or synthetic fabrics are required. Short or long sleeve acceptable, though we recommend long sleeve.
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
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Sun hoodie
A long-sleeved base layer top made from non-cotton materials such as merino wool or polyester. Light-colored, hooded sun shirts are strongly recommended for sun protection and are commonly worn by guides on most climbs.
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Non-cotton baselayer bottoms that should fit snugly without constriction. We recommend lighter weight baselayers rather than heavier fleece-type layers.
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water bottles with insulators
Two one-liter wide-mouthed plastic bottles
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Small stainless-steel thermos (optional)
For hot beverages on summit day
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
Examples:
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Large plastic bowl
Bring a 2-4 cup camping bowl or a plastic "Rubbermaid" style container for your mountain dining
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Lexan spoon or spork
Lightweight and strong
Examples:
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Insulated cup (12-16oz)
A 12-16 oz (350-500 ml) mug with an attached lid will help keep you hydrated
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
Examples:
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Course
Ecuador Mountaineering School
$4,575
15 Days / Includes travel time
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Book Course
Ecuador Mountaineering School w/Chimborazo Extension
$5,275
18 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
Cayambe 18,997 ft / 5790 m
Cotopaxi 19,347 ft / 5897 m
Chimborazo 20,703 ft / 6310 m
** If Cotopaxi is closed due to volcanic activity we will use Antisana or the Illinizas as alternative objectives.
Route
Multiple
Client to Guide Ratio
3:1
Difficulty
Beginner
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