Cayambe
The third highest mountain in Ecuador.
The Cayambe is located 70 km northeast of Quito and is, after Chimborazo and Cotopaxi, the third highest mountain in Ecuador. It is located in the Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve in the eastern Andes Mountains. To reach the peaks, 2 days are needed.
The ascent to the Cayambe lasts approximately 7 hours and the descent lasts approximately 3 hours. The ascent of this volcano is a little technical and it is preferable to have knowledge and experience in mountaineering. At the top you can enjoy impressive landscapes, such as the sighting of Lake San Pablo and the Cuichocha Lagoon. The summit is more than 5,000 meters high, therefore, an adequate acclimatization process is required, and a good physical condition because the walk is long.
Cayambe
Mountain tour
HIGH: 5.796 m
TYPE: Stratovulkan
CHARACTERISTIC: Active volcano
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: BW-4
Day 1: Cayambe´s mountain refuge
We meet at 10 o’clock in Quito (the meeting point will be announced in the mandatory registration). We strongly recommend that you have a very good breakfast. First, We drive into the Cayambe National Park. Then you will settle in the refuge/shelter of the Cayambe and have free time until dinner. After a fortifying dinner, you will go to bed early at 6:30 p.m. Finally, you will begin your climb to the summit of the volcano early at 11:30 p.m.
Day 2: Summit Day (5796 m)
After a hearty breakfast, the adventure begins on the southern flank of Cayambes. At about 4,880 m, you reach a plateau. On the way you will face some snow bridges until you reach 5,280 m. The walk is long therefore demands a good physical condition. You will receive the reward after approximately 7 demanding hours. From the top you can enjoy a magical view of the surrounding mountains. With good weather conditions you can see the Cotopaxi and Chimborazo volcanoes. The descent lasts approximately 3 hours and also requires its full concentration
Included
Not Included
Recommended equipment (not included)
BW-1 (gentle walk)
The simplest form of hiking uses only wide and well-developed roads. Mainly on flat terrain and little inclined, without descents and exposed stairs. Usually well marked trails. No special equipment is required, it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes. More comfort and less physical activity. Cultural walks with contact with people. No prior knowledge required.
BW-2 (challenging walks / activities)
Activities partially challenging or longer than BW-1 (hiking and cycling). Partially difficult terrain (very steep terrain). Good health and good physical condition are required. Availability to light physical efforts, such as cycling and hiking.
BW-3 (mountains tours / outdoors activities)
Activities or hikes that are often demanding and / or extensive. Trails with considerable slopes, narrow, and not always well marked. For mountaineering an acclimatization process is required (heights more than 4.000 m). Safety when walking. Predisposition for heights. It requires very good health and good physical condition. Adventurous spirit.
BW-4 (Heavy Mountain Tour / outdoors activities)
In this category, mountaineering begins on a high alpine landscape (heights more than 5,000 m). For mountaineering, an acclimatization process is required. Use of crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets are required. It requires excellent general health and physical condition. A sporting spirit and predisposition for demanding weather conditions.
BW-5 (extremely heavy mountain tour / outdoors activities)
Very serious mountain tours that demand a high level of risk-taking even for experienced mountaineers. Routes over very steep, and very exposed rock. As a rule, these alpine excursions are unmarked. The knowledge of the use of the equipment is extremely important. Technical mountains are climbed on this type of tour.
Our active trips are generally not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Do not hesitate to contact us, we will be glad to advise you.
Booking Request
Ask for this offer or contact us for further details and queries. Of course, we can tailor your dream trip to your individual needs.
Please fill out the form, with your information, the planned travel date and the number of participants. Of course we also advise you by phone or directly by email at the following contact options: