Chimborazo Climb

Chimborazo Climb

Summiting Chimborazo is a challenging and rewarding experience for avid mountaineers. This majestic top is not only the highest in Ecuador – measured from the earth’s center, Chimborazo is higher than Mt Everest, and the closest you can get to the moon and the sun!

Rising at 6263 m. above sea level, the maximum summit of Chimborazo is the highest point in Ecuador. Measured from the center of the earth, the Whymper peak is even higher than Mount Everest and the closest point to the sun!

Summiting Chimborazo is a challenge for mountaineers with previous experience on glaciers and a sufficient level of acclimatization.

Chimborazo is climbable all year round; the climbing route is subject to variations due to – often sudden – changes in weather and snow conditions. In extended dry spells there will be rocky and icy sections, turning the ascent more technical. This is why we do not recommend this ascent for beginners.

Length: 2 days / 1 night

Starting point: Riobamba

Climb from: Refuge

Min Age: 16

Requirements:

* Previous acclimatization

* Previous glacier experience

* Excellent physical fitness

Altitude Range: 4850 m – 6263 m

Climbing time summit day:

* Ascent 7– 8 hours

* Descent 3 – 4 hours

Average gradient: 30 – 45 degrees

Best months: May - July, November – February

Difficulty level: 5

Itinerary

You will be picked up from your accommodation in Riobamba at 10.30 a.m. for the gear check in our office. Then we depart for the 1-hour transfer to Chimborazo Reserve, with a stop on the way for lunch. Our vehicle takes you all the way to the Carrel hut at 4850 m. / 15912 ft.

Día 1

Option 1: Stay in Carrel hut

You will have the afternoon to rest in the refuge. Our mountain guide will give a safety briefing with indications about the climbing route, expected weather and snow conditions, use of equipment. Early dinner and time for a true power nap, as we will start the ascent at 22.30 p.m.

Option 2: Hike to High Camp

From the refuge we hike for 2 – 2,5 hours to the Stubel Basecamp at 5350 m. / 17.553 ft., carrying our backpacks with climbing gear (optionally you can hire a porter to take up the gear). Settle down in dome tent, rest and enjoy the magnificent sunset. Our mountain guide will give a safety briefing with indications about the climbing route, expected weather and snow conditions, use of equipment. After dinner you can sleep several hours; we will start the final ascent at midnight.

Day 2 - Summit Day

The first part of the climb is a mixture of boulders, rocks, snow and ice. From the large rock formation El Castillo (5350 m. / 17.553 ft.) we continue over the glaciated ridge. The average steepness is 30 – 40 degrees, with some icy sections of 45 degrees, until the first summit (Veintimillia, at 6227 m. / 20.429 ft.).  With good snow conditions, sufficient time, and if you still have enough energy, you can continue 1 more hour to the Whymper summit (6263 m. / 20.548 ft.).  The descent will take 3 – 4 hours. Guests of the high camp will have breakfast in the camp, otherwise you hike down straight to the refuge for breakfast.

From the parking lot transfer back to Riobamba. Arrive at 12.00 p.m.