Climbing Chimborazo

The ancient extinct volcano (6310m)
 

How to make a perfect Chimborazo Climb

Chimborazo volcano is the highest mountain in the Ecuadorian Andes. As a result of global warming, climbing Chimborazo became a relatively technical affair, meaning you will be in a very high altitude and you will need to be perfectly acclimatized, in very good fitness, properly geared up, and – most important – you’ll need Professional Guiding Services. Sierra Nevada’s Guides are certified by UIAGM- ASEGUIM  and will guarantee your safety.      .

Things to keep in mind before climbing Chimborazo in Ecuador

Chimborazo is climbed by experts and beginners, all of them seeking their limits over six thousand meters. Reaching the Chimborazo summit will be rewarded with an incredible view of Ecuador’s other stunning volcanoes such as Cotopaxi, Carihuairazo, Tungurahua, El Altar, Sangay etc.

Chimborazo has 4 main summits, from West to East there are: Ventimilla 6297m/ 20561ft, Whymper 6310m/ 20702ft, Politecnica 5820m/ 19094ft and Nicolas Martinez 5570m/ 18274ft. The summits Ventimilla and Whymper are huge snow domes linked by a shadow depression that drops less than 50m below the main summit.

Want to organize your Chimborazo summit climb? Feel free to get in touch with Sierra Nevada Expeditions! Contact us at info@sierranevada.ec.

Chimborazo Volcanoe is located 150 km southwest of Quito. The ancient and extinct volcano’s rounded bulk testifies to its great age. It is an extremely massive mountain which campanologists claim is composed by the remains of two volcanoes. Chimborazo is the highest mountain in the country and for many years it was thought to be the highest in the Andes. It still retains the distinction of being the point on the earth’s surface which is farthest from its center. On average, 8 hours are necessary to reach its summit.
CLIMBING CHIMBORAZO
Climbing Chimborazo – Summary
Chimborazo is like most of the mountains in the world affected by global warming, therefore its glaciers are melting and thus change the climbing conditions.

The normal route became a challenge and requires some expertise and skills on ice techniques. Its steepness is more continuous but offers a direct uphill line to the top after El Castillo area, now days this route is installed a Via Ferrata. In addition, rock falls are often reported depending on prevalent conditions, giving Chimborazo the reputation of currently being an adventurous climb. Actually, choosing the best route will depend on your guide’s criteria and experience, Sierra Nevada Expeditions guarantee you  Certified ASEGUIM UIAGM guides.

Day 1 – Chimborazo Whymper hut

Departure from Quito in the South direction towards Ambato city, possibility to see an Indian market on our way. Late afternoon we will arrive at the Whymper hut at 5000m. Early dinner and relax.

Day 2 –  Chimborazo Summit

Wake up before midnight and ascent to its summit (6310m) by the normal route or via “El Castillo” (about 8 hours), the descend will take us 4 hours to the hut and parking lot. Resting, packing, and transfer to Quito.

PS: in 2019 a High camp at 5300 mt. was build, providing very good services and saving  time and energy  to the summit. ask for it.