Ecuador, Jewel of the Andes, presents a relatively untraveled paradise for the beginning climber. Perhaps nowhere else on earth does the combination of high mountains and easy accessibility exist in such close proximity. In fourteen days, we will attempt to summit four of Ecuador's highest peaks: Chimborazo (20,701ft/6,310m), Cotopaxi (19,347ft/5,897m), Cayambe (18,996ft/5,790m) and the smaller Cotocachi (16,203ft/4,944m). Great effort is required to summit all four of these in a relatively short period of time, yet it provides the beginning climber a definitive place to test altitude and fitness limits. Alpine Ascents' Ecuador expedition combines ascents, short acclimatization trips and skill development with a chance to experience one of South America's ancient and rich cultures.
Cotocachi, an acclimatization climb, offers beautiful views of both the Eastern and Western Cordillera ranges in the Andes. Cayambe proffers heavily crevassed glaciated slopes while its notoriously changeable weather provides its own challenges. Cotopaxi, reputed by some to be the world's highest active volcano, is beautifully symmetrical and heavily glaciated. And finally Chimborazo, the highest summit in Ecuador, demands we climb moderate slopes to the base of the glacier and snow covered glaciated terrain to almost 350 in steepness. With this amount of varied climbing and high altitude, Alpine Ascents' Ecuador expedition promises a challenging and rewarding experience. The logical 'next-step' for our Mountaineering School graduates, over 200 former students have enjoyed climbing at the center of the world. Ecuador is such an interesting country and near perfect for the aspiring climber with its wealth of challenging high-altitude climbs.
For those wishing to participate, we require some prior mountaineering experience including knowledge of the ice axe and moving on snow. During the course, we will spend some time on skills review including: glacier travel, route finding, rope technique, safe travel, snow climbing and advanced ice axe techniques. Here is a chance to truly develop your alpine mountaineering skills.
This program of four high altitude ascents is unsurpassed for those interested in a unique climbing experience or those seeking to gain experience for other high altitude climbing objectives.
PREREQUISITES
Climbing Skill Level
Climbers should have successfully completed our 6-Day Training course, 8-Day, 12-Day, 13-Day or have equivalent skills and experience. Those who had a strong performance on a 3-Day Baker or Rainier climb may also join. They must have basic knowledge of progression on snow and ice, self arrest, crevasse rescue and glacier travel. Snow and ice slopes to be dealt with are moderate (up to 45 degrees). During the expedition we will spend three days on the Cayambe glacier reviewing skills. The requirements are also based on our desire to have similarly skilled team members.
Physical Conditioning
In the best interest of personal safety, success and team compatibility, adequate training and excellent physical condition are required. Prior experience carrying a heavy pack for multiple days serves as excellent preparation for this climb. Climbers must be able to carry an average of 20lbs or more and be physically and mentally prepared to deal with strenuous situations at high altitudes. Climbers need to be in excellent physical condition for both personal enjoyment and to be an integral team member. We encourage you to contact us so that we may assist you in developing a training program that meets your particular needs. Comprehensive training information can be found here.
Private Groups
We regularly organize private climbs for corporate groups, families and friends. We encourage you to book these climbs early as we are often able to cater these climbs to group-specific desires. Please contact our office to further discuss the benefits of private climbs.