Ecuador, Andes Introductory Mountaineering Course

In the Andes of Ecuador there is an assortment of amazing peaks to climb. However, it is crucial to know how to properly, safely and securely climb those majestic peaks. And over the course of 5 days, I would like to thoroughly instruct you how do that. And on the final day of this adventure, you will get to take what you have learned and scale one of the most impressive peaks in the area, Cayambe (5,790m). The third highest peak in Ecuador, Cayambe is an amazing mountain. And the views you will get from its summit, just as the sun starts rising, are second spectacular.

The trip will begin in the capital city of Quito. From there, we will drive for approximately 2 hours to the Refugio Ruales-Oleas-Berge (4,600m). This refuge will be our base, as well as our shelter for four consecutive nights. Around the refuge, you will learn a number of important skills. A few examples of those skills include equipment use and care, climbing knots, risk management and more. We will also venture to a nearby glacier during the course. There you will learn an assortment of important skills from how to properly use crampons and an ice axe to basic rescue skills. We will also dedicate a full day to crevasse rescue. Finally, we will dedicate a day to preparing for the fifth and final day of this trip, which will have you climbing to the summit of Cayambe.

If you want to learn what it takes to climb a great peak in Ecuador, and then take what you’ve learned and actually climb a great peak in Ecuador, this 5 day trip is for you. Just send me a request, and I’ll see you in Quito.