Illiniza Norte
The gentle twin brother of the Illinizas volcanoes.
The Illiniza Norte is located in the ecological reserve “Los Illinizas”, 84 km from the capital of Ecuador. The reserve has subtropical forests, Andean forests and páramos (moor) with a considerable biodiversity. The reserve is the habitat of animals such as the tigrillos (is a small spotted cat), armadillos, a variety of birds such as the tanager, nuthatches and hummingbirds. The páramo wolf and white-tailed deer live in the páramos and highlands. We point out that none of these animals represents a danger to humans. The Ilinizas are two peaks of the same volcano, which over the course of 5,000 years has formed two separate peaks. The southern summit is higher and wider (5,263 m) and always snowy. This makes the climb more difficult than the climb to the north summit (5,126 m), which almost always remains without snow. The climb to both peaks is rewarded with a magnificent view. You reach the summit of Illiniza Norte in about 7 hours. The ascent can be done in one day. However, it is important that you are prepared for this height. Therefore, we recommend to acclimatizing for at least two days at a height of 3,000 m.
Illiniza
Mountain tour
HIGH: 5.126 m
TYPE: Stratovulkan
CHARACTERISTIC: Inactive volcano
DIFFICULTY LEVEL: BW-3
1st day “Ascension and summit day (5,126 m)”
We meet at 7 o’clock in Quito (meeting point will be announced at the mandatory register) and start our journey to the nature reserve Los Illinizas. We reach El Chaupí, a checkpoint in the reserve. From here we drive in 4X4 cars for another 30 minutes through the edges of the Illinizas to the parking lot of La Virgen at 3,950 m. From here, our ascent to the top of the volcano begins, the journey takes approximately 4 hours, and the descent takes about 2 hours.
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:
