Mini stay / Speaking English Guide
Visited Area : Andes
Activities in this trip:
Climbing of a volcano (5023 m) – Acclimatization required
Nivel
Advanced * From 215 $
Tungurahua, at 5,023 m, is an active stratovolcano located in the central mountain range, 140 km south of Quito.
The name “Tungurahua” comes from Quechua and is formed by the words “tunqur,” meaning throat, and “rawra,” meaning fire, which can be translated as “throat of fire.”
It is also known as “the Black Giant,” and in indigenous mythology it is called “Mama Tungurahua” and considered the wife of “Taita Chimborazo.”
Due to its activity, the volcano has lost almost all of its permanent snow, and its ascent, although not technically difficult, is intended for participants with excellent physical condition. Two days are required to reach the summit.
The effort is well worth it, as a magnificent view over the Avenue of the Volcanoes awaits you.
Itinerary :
Day 1
Departure in the morning from Baños by private vehicle to Pondoa (2,400 m), where the ascent begins. We will pass the entrance control of Sangay National Park and continue to the Santos Ocaña refuge at 3,800 m, set in a subtropical environment with lush vegetation. Picnic lunch during the hike. Accommodation, dinner, and overnight at the refuge.
Walking time: approximately 3 hours
Elevation gain: 1,400 m
Day 2
After breakfast, early departure from the refuge for the final ascent, which will take about 5 hours to reach the summit at 5,023 m. Picnic lunch during the hike. Then descent (1.5 to 2 hours) back to the refuge to collect remaining belongings, followed by continuation to Pondoa where we take the private vehicle back to Baños.
Walking time: approximately 8 hours
Terrain: sandy trails, rocky sections, occasional snow
Elevation gain: +1,223 m / -2,623 m
Customize this trip :
Let us know your desire changes and suggestions and we´ll send you a proposal
| 1 Pers. | 560 $ |
| 2 People. | 320 $ |
| 3 People. | 245 $ |
| 4 People | 245 $ |
| 5 People. | 245 $ |
| 6 People. | 245 $ |
| 7 People | 245 $ |
| 8 People. | 215 $ |
Transport from Baños
Meals and bottled water
Helmet, harness, and rope
1 ASEGUIM-certified high mountain guide for a maximum of 3 participants
From 4 participants, 1 additional guide
1 pack mule for up to 3 participants
Overnight in refuge
Sleeping bag
Entrance to Sangay National Park – currently free
Departures every day
Departures are confirmed with 1 participant
Important note:
Current safety regulations in Ecuador for an ascent like this require a certified high mountain guide for a maximum of 3 participants. Up to 3 participants, one pack mule is included. From 4 participants onward, an additional mule must be added.
Recommended personal equipment:
Warm hat, waterproof gloves, waterproof technical jacket and pants, headlamp, glacier sunglasses (protection level 3 or 4), good hiking boots. It is also possible to rent this equipment in Quito (maximum size 47). If you need to rent equipment in Quito, we will assist you with the process. For altitude-related issues, consult your doctor regarding the use of Diamox.
Sleeping bag
70 L backpack (to carry gear to the refuge)
Small daypack
Precautions and advice:
A 3 to 5 day acclimatization period in the Andes is recommended before attempting this ascent. Our team will be happy to advise you on the different trekking options available.