Chimborazo Tour From Quito: Hiking and Ascent to Condor Cocha All Included

The Chimborazo Tour from Quito offers an exciting opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet rewarding high-altitude adventure. Culminating in an ascent to the breathtaking Laguna Condor Cocha, this guided excursion showcases the stunning paramo ecosystem with its unique flora and fauna. With strategic stops along the way, participants can enjoy panoramic vistas and acclimatize, ensuring a safe and memorable journey. For those with a moderate fitness level, this tour promises an unforgettable experience and a true sense of accomplishment. But what awaits those who embark on this exceptional adventure?

Key Points

• Guided tour from Quito explores the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, reaching an altitude of 5,100 meters at Laguna Condor Cocha.
• Itinerary includes stops at Hermanos Carriel Shelter (4,850 m) and Whymper Refuge (5,000 m) before the final ascent.
• Opportunity to witness unique paramo flora and fauna, including the graceful vicuña, a native camelid.
• Moderate fitness level required, with bilingual professional guide ensuring safety and enjoyment during the high-altitude trekking.
• Tour not suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions, and altitude sickness may be a concern due to the high elevations.

Tour Overview

The Chimborazo Tour from Quito provides adventurous travelers the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve.

This guided tour takes visitors on a journey up to an impressive altitude of 5,100 meters, just shy of the 6,310-meter summit. The day-long excursion begins in Quito and includes stops at the Hermanos Carriel Shelter and Whymper Refuge, before reaching the beautiful Laguna Condor Cocha.

Along the way, participants can witness the unique paramo flora and fauna, including the iconic vicuña. While a moderate level of fitness is required, the tour provides a chance to experience Ecuador’s breathtaking Andean scenery.

Itinerary Highlights

Travelers begin the Chimborazo Tour from Quito, departing early in the morning to embark on their adventure. The journey takes them to the Hermanos Carriel Shelter at 4850 meters, where they can take a break and soak in the breathtaking views. Next, they visit the Whymper Refuge at 5000 meters, a popular base camp for mountaineers. The tour then explores the stunning Laguna Condor Cocha at 5100 meters, a glacial lake that offers a glimpse into the region’s unique paramo ecosystem. After the hike, the group descends back to the parking lot, having experienced the Andes’ majestic landscapes and wildlife.

Itinerary Highlights	Elevation
Hermanos Carriel Shelter	4850 m
Whymper Refuge	5000 m
Laguna Condor Cocha	5100 m

Reaching Hermanos Carriel Shelter

From Quito, the tour group embarks on their journey towards the Hermanos Carriel Shelter at an impressive elevation of 4850 meters.

The hike is moderately challenging, but the guide leads the way, ensuring the group’s safety and providing insights into the unique flora and fauna of the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve.

As they ascend, the group is rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the Andean highlands.

The Hermanos Carriel Shelter serves as a resting point, where the group can refuel and prepare for the next stage of their adventure towards the Whymper Refuge and the Laguna Condor Cocha.

Visiting Whymper Refuge

Ascending further, the group reaches the Whymper Refuge at an elevation of 5000 meters. This mountain shelter, named after the famous British alpinist Edward Whymper, serves as a base camp for those attempting to summit Chimborazo.

The refuge offers:

• Basic amenities like sleeping quarters and a small kitchen
• Stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks
• The opportunity to acclimatize and prepare for the final push to the summit

After a brief respite, the team continues their ascent, eager to reach the stunning Laguna Condor Cocha at 5100 meters and witness the breathtaking landscapes that have inspired generations of adventurers.

Exploring Laguna Condor Cocha

As the group continues their ascent, they reach the stunning Laguna Condor Cocha, situated at an impressive 5100 meters above sea level.

This high-altitude lake offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The group takes a moment to admire the tranquil waters and the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this unique paramo ecosystem.

They spot the graceful vicuña, a type of camelid native to the region, grazing near the shoreline.

After exploring the area and taking in the stunning scenery, the group prepares to descend back to the parking lot, their adventure at Laguna Condor Cocha now an unforgettable highlight of the Chimborazo tour.

Descending to the Parking Lot

After taking in the stunning scenery at Laguna Condor Cocha, the group begins their descent back to the parking lot.

The return journey is just as challenging, with steep, rocky terrain requiring hikers’ full attention. Trekking poles prove invaluable, providing stability and reducing strain on the knees.

As they descend, the group takes in views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, a dramatic contrast to the high-altitude landscapes they explored earlier.

The path becomes less steep as they near the trailhead, and the hikers feel a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the parking lot, ready to reflect on their incredible Chimborazo adventure.

• Steep, rocky terrain requires full attention during descent
• Trekking poles provide stability and reduce knee strain
• Dramatic contrast between high-altitude and lower landscapes

Wildlife and Landscape

The Chimborazo tour showcases the unique paramo flora and fauna of the region. One of the notable species is the vicuña, a type of camelid that roams the area.

Visitors can marvel at the scenic landscapes that inspire adventure and exploration. The towering peaks and rolling grasslands offer a breathtaking backdrop for the hike.

Along the way, travelers may spot a variety of endemic plants and animals adapted to the high-altitude environment.

Health and Safety Considerations

A moderate level of physical fitness is required for the Chimborazo tour. This hike isn’t suitable for individuals with serious medical conditions, such as heart problems.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

• The tour involves hiking up to an altitude of 5,100 meters, which can be physically demanding.

Participants should be prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking, including potential altitude sickness and fatigue.

It’s essential to follow the guidance of the bilingual professional guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The tour accepts individual bookings and does not require a minimum group size. Solo travelers will be paired with other participants to form a group for the excursion.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Travelers can cancel their booking without penalty if they need to change their plans within this timeframe.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration. Travelers would need to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any possibility of extending the tour time beyond the standard 6:30am to 6:30pm schedule.

Can I Bring My Own Hiking Gear or Is Equipment Provided?

The tour provides basic hiking equipment, including boots and gear, but participants are welcome to bring their own equipment if they prefer. Participants should check with the tour operator on the specific gear included in the tour package.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator does offer discounts for students and seniors, typically around 10-15% off the regular price. Interested travelers should inquire about these reduced rates when booking the Chimborazo tour from Quito.

Recap

The Chimborazo Tour from Quito offers an exhilarating hiking experience, culminating in an ascent to the stunning Laguna Condor Cocha at 5,100 meters. Designed for those with moderate fitness levels, this adventure promises unforgettable landscapes and a sense of accomplishment upon completion. With stops at the Hermanos Carriel Shelter and Whymper Refuge, participants can enjoy panoramic views and opportunities for acclimatization while exploring the breathtaking paramo ecosystem.