El Altar (5319 m. / 17.451 f.) is one of the most beautiful mountains of Ecuador and an excellent area for glacier hiking and climbing. This 4-day trek includes a day hike on the glacier plus the ascent of an easy 5000 m. peak of El Altar. Recommended for persons who are in good physical shape and want to learn the basics of climbing. This trip is also a good way to acclimatize and to prepare for the ascents of Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.

 

Day 1   At  9:00 a.m. we leave Riobamba. After a 1,5 hour drive we reach the small village of Boca Toma at 3500 m. / 11.484 ft., starting point of our trek. We put the equipment on horses and start hiking on the paramo highlands. After about 6 – 7 hours we arrive at Laguna Negra Paccha (4225m. /  14.862 ft.) where we will make our camp. From this camp you have very good views of the south face of El Altar.

Day 2   Today we will take hike on the glaciers of Altar, a good opportunity to practice walking with crampons and rope. From Laguna Negra Paccha we hike up to the glacier. With clear weather we have marvellous views of the Laguna Pintada – the biggest lagoon in this area, and of great part of the Sangay National Park. After about 6 hours we reach the Italian Camp at 4600 m. / 15.092 ft., where we will pitch our tents.

Day 3   From the Italian Camp we climb the Monkey Hippy (5050 m. / 16.569 ft.) which is one of Altar’s not technical peaks. After about 5 hours we return to the Italian camp. From here we descend to Laguna Mandur (4300 m. / 14.108 ft.) where we will spend the night.

Day 4  From the Laguna de Mandur we hike up to the Yanacocha hill. With clear weather you will have excellent views of Laguna Amarilla, El Altar's crater lake. After about 4 hours we descend to Boca Toma, from where we drive back to Riobamba. Arrive at about 15:00 p.m.

DIFFICULTY: moderate; a basic acclimatization is recommended

DEPARTURE: any day

WE PROVIDE: 
-  guide
-  transportation from / to Riobamba
-  accommodation in tents 
-  meals (4 box lunch, 3 dinner, 3 breakfast) and purified drinking water
-  pack horses for the equipment
-  camping equipment