Sangay is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Climbing
this mountain, that is constantly spewing out rocks and ashes, is
a real adventure. The access to the base camp is difficult but very
rewarding. On the 3-day hike to the camp you will pass through beautiful
flora, and with some luck you may catch a glimpse of the endangered
spectacled bear or woolly tapir. This expedition requires excellent
physical health and an adventurous spirit.
Day 1 Early in the morning we leave Riobamba
and drive for 2 hours southeast to Guargualla, a small village
at 3200 m. / 10.499 f. Here we pack our equipment on horses, and
then we start our expedition. After 5 - 6 hours hiking we arrive
at the first camp.
Day 2 We head southeast until we arrive at Plazapampa,
a plain. We continue hiking and arrive at a part with a more dense
vegetation, and we have to cross some rivers and swamps. After
6 - 7 hours we arrive at the Yanayacu river (which means Black
Waters in Quichua). We camp at 3400 m. / 11.155 f. altitude.
Day 3 From Yanayacu we hike for about 4 - 5
hours until we reach La Playa (3600 m.), the Sangay base camp
at 3600 m. / 11.811 f. Because of the clouds it is not always
possible to see the volcano, but always you can hear its small
explosions.
Day 4 Shortly after midnight we hike from the
base camp to the foot of the volcano, where we start the ascent.
The climb to the summit, first on lava and then on snow, takes
6 to 8 hours. It is not technical but it is steep, and we have
to watch out for falling rocks. From the summit we have a breathtaking
view of the Amazon jungle and of Chimborazo, Antisana and Altar.
We descend to the base camp to rest.
Day 5, 6 & 7 We return following the same
route to Guargualla. On day 7 we arrive at Guargualla and return
by car to Riobamba. Arrival at about 3:00 p.m.
