Galápagos Islands Add-On
Galápagos Islands Add-On
$2,500 USD per person
Please note: price based on twin share
Celebrate your Ecuador Volcanoes expedition, tick off a bucket list must-do, and end your trip on a high note by exploring the Galápagos Islands. This custom-built trip extension for CTSS clients includes a four-day, three-night tour of the archipelago’s highlights. Walk in Darwin’s footsteps and experience one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet.
- Includes lunch
- Meet your naturalist guide from the Parque Nacional Galápagos at the airport
- Cross the Itacaba Channel by boat to Santa Cruz island, private transfer to Puerto Ayora
- Check in to the hotel and receive snorkeling gear before lunch at a local restaurant
- Walk with wild giant tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz
- Explore underground lava tunnels and visit Los Gemelos
- Overnight in Puerto Ayora
- Includes breakfast and boxed lunch
- Departures depend on availability and authorization of the Parque Nacional Galápagos
- South Plaza Island (Isla Plaza Sur): The island is home to the enormous prickly pear cactus and the endemic succulent Sesuvium edmonstonei. It also has one of the largest populations of land iguanas in the Galápagos Islands.
- North Seymour Island (Isla Seymour Norte): In the north of Baltra is the small islet of North Seymour. A bird lover’s dream, the island with its rocky coast is perfect for visiting the colonies of blue-footed boobies and magnificent frigate birds.
- Floreana Island (Isla Floreana): This island has long been a favorite for pirates, whalers, early settlers, and today’s travelers. Floreana’s volcano has long been extinct and is in the advanced stages of erosion which has created rich, fertile soil. This diversified landscape is flourishing with native and introduced flora.
- Santa Fé Island (Isla Santa Fé): Go hiking and snorkeling. Explore the giant Opuntia Cactus Forest and discover land iguanas that are unique to this island. These rare reptiles are easiest to find early in the morning or late in the afternoon. A two-hour trail boasts sensational views and the chance to see some endemic vegetation, including Scalesia, while the bay offers relaxing swimming and snorkeling opportunities.
- Bartolomé Island (Isla Bartolomé): This small island is famous for the photogenic pinnacle of rock that looks sheared away from the cliff. Embark on a trail that passes different lava formations and pioneer vegetation before reaching the summit, offering beautiful views of the surrounding islands. Penguins can sometimes be observed while swimming or snorkeling.
- Includes breakfast
- In the morning, enjoy a bay tour on the “Love Channel” and observe reef sharks. Continue the tour with a short walk to see the marine iguanas that inhabit the Playas de los Perros.
- In the afternoon, you have free time to explore. Some suggestions are to see the Charles Darwin Research Station, which also houses a giant tortoise breeding center, or visit Tortuga Bay Beach. Perhaps the most beautiful beach in the Galapagos, Tortuga Bay Beach, is the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, and observe colonies of marine iguanas, pelicans, Darwin’s finches, sharks, sea turtles, and more.
- Includes breakfast
- After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Galápagos Ecologic Airport
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services/items of a personal nature like flights, gear, insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect
Included in the Galápagos Islands Add-On
- Transfer to and from Galápagos Ecologic Airport
- Speedboat Santa Cruz – Isabela – Santa Cruz
- Accommodation in double occupancy room
- Naturalist guide
- All meals as per itinerary
- Daily excursions as per itinerary
Excluded from the Galápagos Islands Add-On
- Transfers to and from Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador
- Air tickets to and from Guayaquil, Ecuador to Galápagos Island
- Parque Nacional Galápagos entrance ($100 USD per person, paid in cash at Balta’s airport)
- Transit Control card ($20 USD per person)
- Any additional meals and transportation outside the expedition
- Bar tabs, minibars, hotel internet bills, laundry, etc.
- Expenses while on the expedition that are above and beyond the normal scope of the trip, such as medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, rescues, snacks, flight changes, alcohol, gifts for friends and family, specialty coffees, and bottled water, among others.
- Expenses incurred due to events outside CTSS's control, such as delays or interruptions, political events, natural events, or disasters. These may include additional expenses, such as extra hotel nights, resulting from delays.
- Trip insurance policy that includes personal medical, rescue, evacuation, trip interruption, and trip cancellation insurance
- Single-room accommodations, if desired and pre-booked
- Guide tips (customary but optional)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On
Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On
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Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On
$1,750 USD
Dates:
November 3 -7, 2024
January 24 - 28, 2025
If you need a little longer to acclimatize, prefer a more gradual approach, or are a beginner who would like to brush up on your technical mountaineer skills before the expedition officially begins, then we highly recommend our Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On that dovetails perfectly into our Ecuador Volcanoes Team Climb. Skills covered include cramponing, mountain efficiency, self-arrest, glacier travel, and more over the course of two high-altitude acclimatization hikes, along with a full day of snow school and mountaineering training.
For beginners looking to make use of this add-on, it is desirable that you have some past expedition, trekking, high altitude, or climbing experience.
Please Note: This add-on’s arrival is two days before the start date of the Ecuador Volcanoes Team Climb.
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned, and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive. We always recommend climbers arrive in Quito, Ecuador, on Day 1, which is your arrival day, meaning you can book your flights to arrive at any time on Day 1. Please let us know if you want us to arrange logistics for early arrivals or for a single-rooming option.
- Day 1: Pre-expedition climbers arrive in Quito, Ecuador
- Day 2: Gear checks, equator visit, Teleférico de Quito (cable car)
- Day 3: Acclimatization hike to 14,272 feet near Antisana National Park
- Day 4: Snow school and mountaineering training at Antisana Base Camp
- Day 5: Unite with the rest of your Ecuador Volcanoes team for an acclimatization hike on Rumiñahui Central (15,203 feet). Continue onto the normal itinerary
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services/items of a personal nature like flights, gear, insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect
Included in the Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On
- Professional mountain guides
- Hotels and mountain huts at double occupancy (excluding early arrivals or late departures)
- Breakfast is provided daily, and expedition food is available in the huts. While on the mountain, dinners and breakfasts will be provided. Lunch is mountaineering style, which means you will eat a steady graze throughout the day to keep your energy levels high.
- Guidance and expedition management
- All group transportation is provided while on the expedition. If you depart early, you are responsible for the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation.
- Group gear, including fuel, ropes, and safety gear.
- Satellite phone to update the CTSS blog. Also available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded from the Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On
- Flights to and from Quito, Ecuador, and associated travel expenses (e.g., hotels, excess baggage fees, visas, departure taxes, food) getting to and from Ecuador
- All costs incurred prior to the start date of the trip and after the end date.
- Ecuadorean visa fees
- In-town and off-mountain meals in Ecuador (we will just split the bill at the end of each meal)
- Personal climbing gear and snacks
- Any additional meals and transportation outside the expedition
- Bar tabs, minibars, hotel internet bills, laundry, etc.
- Expenses while on the expedition that are above and beyond the normal scope of the trip, such as medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, rescues, snacks, flight changes, alcohol, gifts for friends and family, specialty coffees, and bottled water, among others.
- Expenses incurred due to events outside CTSS's control, such as delays or interruptions, political events, natural events, or disasters. These may include additional expenses, such as extra hotel nights, resulting from delays.
- Trip insurance policy that includes personal climbing, medical, rescue, evacuation, trip interruption, and trip cancellation insurance
- Single-room accommodations, if desired and pre-booked
- Guide tips (customary but optional)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Ecuador Volcanoes Private Climb
Ecuador Volcanoes Private Climb
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Ecuador Volcanoes Private Climb
Senior Local Private Guide: $12,995 USD
Western or International Private Guide: $18,995 USD
Contact us for dates and availability.
Having your own private guide climbing with you can be an indispensable advantage. A private guide allows you to dictate the schedule, amend it depending on how you’re feeling, and customize your climbing itinerary. They will be on the lookout for any signs of altitude sickness or medical issues while also acting like a coach, giving you valuable and direct feedback on the mountain. All of these factors together will result in a more enjoyable climbing experience with increased opportunities for growth.
Although summits are never guaranteed, climbing with a private guide is the best way to increase your chances.
This expedition provides a private guide at a 1:1 ratio, logistical oversight by expedition leader Mike Hamill, logistics, food, group gear, and support for a summit attempt on both Cotopaxi and Cayambe. Whether you’re a less experienced climber or have climbed at altitude many times before, our Ecuador Volcanoes expedition with a 1:1 private guide will give you a greater chance at standing on the summit of these beautiful Ecuadorean peaks.
Sample itinerary. CTSS will work with our private climbers to create an ideal climb itinerary that meets their specific needs. Please contact us for more information.
- Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
- Day 2: Gear checks, Equator visit, Teleférico de Quito (cable car)
- Day 3: Acclimatization hike on Rumiñahui Central (15,203 feet)
- Day 4: Travel to Cotopaxi for training
- Day 5: Hike to the Refugio José Rivas on Cotopaxi
- Day 6: Summit Cotopaxi (18,996 feet) and descent to Hacienda La Ciénega
- Day 7: Drive to the Refugio Ruales Oleas Bergé on Cayambe
- Day 8: Acclimatization day or possible summit day
- Day 9: Summit Cayambe (19,347 feet) and drive to Termas de Papallacta
- Day 10: Drive to Quito and enjoy a celebration dinner
- Day 11: Departure day for those not climbing Chimborazo
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services and items of a personal nature, like flights, gear, and insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included in the Ecuador Volcanoes Private Climb
- Professional mountain guides
- Hotels and mountain huts at single occupancy (excluding early arrivals or late departures)
- Breakfast is provided daily, and expedition food is available in the huts. While on the mountain, dinners and breakfasts will be provided. Lunch is mountaineering style, which means you will eat a steady graze throughout the day to keep your energy levels high.
- Guidance and expedition management
- All group transportation is provided while on the expedition. If you depart early, you are responsible for the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation.
- Group gear, including fuel, ropes, safety gear, and tents for Chimborazo
- Satellite phone to update the CTSS blog. Also available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded from the Ecuador Volcanoes Private Climb
- Flights to and from Quito, Ecuador, and associated travel expenses (e.g., hotels, excess baggage fees, visas, departure taxes, food) getting to and from Ecuador
- All costs incurred prior to the start date of the trip and after the end date.
- Ecuadorean visa fees
- In-town and off-mountain meals in Ecuador (we will just split the bill at the end of each meal)
- Personal climbing gear and snacks
- Any additional meals and transportation outside the expedition
- Bar tabs, minibars, hotel internet bills, laundry, etc.
- Expenses while on the expedition that are above and beyond the normal scope of the trip, such as medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, rescues, snacks, flight changes, alcohol, gifts for friends and family, specialty coffees, and bottled water, among others.
- Expenses incurred due to events outside CTSS's control, such as delays or interruptions, political events, natural events, or disasters. These may include additional expenses, such as extra hotel nights, resulting from delays.
- Trip insurance policy that includes personal climbing, medical, rescue, evacuation, trip interruption, and trip cancellation insurance
- Guide tips (customary but optional)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Ecuador Volcanoes Speed Ascent with Private Guide
Ecuador Volcanoes Speed Ascent with Private Guide
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Ecuador Volcanoes Speed Ascent with Private Guide
Contact us for pricing, dates, and availability.
CTSS offers select climbers our Speed Ascent option which employs state-of-the-art technology to allow climbers the ability to summit in less time. If you are short on time and want to make the round trip safely but as quickly as possible, this is the ideal option. We use a time-tested training program in conjunction with the use of a portable hypoxic altitude chamber to pre-acclimate your body to the rarefied air found at altitude. This option is perfect for those who want to minimize time away from home while still stacking the odds in their favor for summit success.
Having your own private climbing guide with you can be an indispensable advantage. A private guide allows you to dictate the schedule, amend it depending on how you’re feeling, and customize your climbing itinerary. They will be on the lookout for any signs of altitude sickness or medical issues while also acting like a coach, giving you valuable and direct feedback on the mountain. All of these factors together will result in a more enjoyable climbing experience with increased opportunities for growth.
Although summits are never guaranteed, climbing with a private guide is the best way to increase your chances.
This expedition provides a private guide at a 1:1 ratio, logistical oversight by expedition leader Mike Hamill, logistics, food, group gear, and support for a summit attempt on both Cotopaxi and Cayambe. Whether you’re a less experienced climber or have climbed at altitude many times before, our Ecuador Volcanoes expedition with a 1:1 private guide will give you a greater chance at standing on the summit of these beautiful Ecuadorean peaks.
Sample itinerary. CTSS will work with our private climbers to create an ideal climb itinerary that meets their specific needs. Please contact us for more information.
- Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
- Day 2: Gear checks, equator visit, Teleférico de Quito (cable car)
- Day 3: Acclimatization hike on Rumiñahui Central (15,203 feet)
- Day 4: Travel to Cotopaxi for training
- Day 5: Hike to the Refugio José Rivas on Cotopaxi
- Day 6: Summit Cotopaxi (18,996 feet) and descent to Hacienda La Ciénega
- Day 7: Drive to the Refugio Ruales Oleas Bergé on Cayambe
- Day 8: Acclimatization day or possible summit day
- Day 9: Summit Cayambe (19,347 feet) and drive to Termas de Papallacta
- Day 10: Drive to Quito and enjoy a celebration dinner
- Day 11: Departure day for those not climbing Chimborazo
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services and items of a personal nature, like flights, gear, and insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included in the Ecuador Volcanoes Speed Ascent with Private Guide
- Professional mountain guides
- Hotels and mountain huts at single occupancy (excluding early arrivals or late departures)
- Breakfast is provided daily, and expedition food is available in the huts. While on the mountain, dinners and breakfasts will be provided. Lunch is mountaineering style, which means you will eat a steady graze throughout the day to keep your energy levels high.
- Guidance and expedition management
- All group transportation is provided while on the expedition. If you depart early, you are responsible for the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation.
- Group gear, including fuel, ropes, safety gear, and tents for Chimborazo
- Satellite phone to update the CTSS blog. Also available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded from the Ecuador Volcanoes Speed Ascent with Private Guide
- Flights to and from Quito, Ecuador, and associated travel expenses (e.g., hotels, excess baggage fees, visas, departure taxes, food) getting to and from Ecuador
- All costs incurred prior to the start date of the trip and after the end date.
- Ecuadorean visa fees
- In-town and off-mountain meals in Ecuador (we will just split the bill at the end of each meal)
- Personal climbing gear and snacks
- Any additional meals and transportation outside the expedition
- Bar tabs, minibars, hotel internet bills, laundry, etc.
- Expenses while on the expedition that are above and beyond the normal scope of the trip, such as medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, rescues, snacks, flight changes, alcohol, gifts for friends and family, specialty coffees, and bottled water, among others.
- Expenses incurred due to events outside CTSS's control, such as delays or interruptions, political events, natural events, or disasters. These may include additional expenses, such as extra hotel nights, resulting from delays.
- Trip insurance policy that includes personal climbing, medical, rescue, evacuation, trip interruption, and trip cancellation insurance
- Guide tips (customary but optional)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Ecuador Volcanoes + Chimborazo Team Climb
Ecuador Volcanoes + Chimborazo Team Climb
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Ecuador Volcanoes + Chimborazo Team Climb
Team Departure: $5,745 USD
Dates:
- January 26 – February 8, 2025
- November 5 – 18, 2025
- November 5 – 18, 2025 (All-Women Team Climb)
This expedition is our traditional guided team climb with an add-on climb of Chimborazo (20,548 feet) after ascending both Cotopaxi (18,996 feet) and Cayambe (19,347 feet). This itinerary maximizes your acclimatization, training, and time in Ecuador.
- If these dates don’t work for you, or you would like a private trip and private guide, we also build custom itineraries for many of our climbers.
- Looking to brush up on your technical mountaineering skills before the expedition starts? Join us for our two-day Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On to review cramponing, mountain efficiency, self-arrest, glacier travel, and more.
- Round out your experience with our Friends & Family or Galápagos Islands add-ons.
Even though our Ecuador Volcanoes expedition is close to the Equator, don’t underestimate the cold. Many people make this mistake and are under-prepared for the climb and the extreme conditions they encounter, especially on summit days. These are real alpine climbs, and conditions can be very cold.
This expedition provides guidance, leadership, program oversight by renowned expedition leader Mike Hamill, local guides, logistics, team gear, porters, food, and support for a summit attempt on both Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Chimborazo.
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned, and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive. We always recommend climbers arrive in Quito, Ecuador, on Day 1, which is your arrival day, meaning you can book your flights to arrive at any time on Day 1. Please let us know if you want us to arrange logistics for early arrivals or for a single-rooming option at an additional cost.
- Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
- Day 2: Gear checks, Equator visit, Teleférico de Quito (cable car)
- Day 3: Acclimatization hike on Rumiñahui Central (15,203 feet)
- Day 4: Travel to Cotopaxi for training
- Day 5: Hike to the Refugio José Rivas on Cotopaxi
- Day 6: Summit Cotopaxi (18,996 feet) and descend to Hacienda La Ciénega
- Day 7: Drive to the Refugio Ruales Oleas Bergé on Cayambe
- Day 8: Acclimatization day or possible summit day
- Day 9: Summit Cayambe (19,347 feet) and drive to Termas de Papallacta
- Day 10: Drive to Quito and enjoy a celebration dinner
- Day 11: Drive to Chimborazo and hike to High Camp
- Day 12: Summit Chimborazo (20,548 feet) and descend to High Camp
- Day 13: Contingency day or return to Quito
- Day 14: Departure day
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services and items of a personal nature, like flights, gear, and insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included in the Ecuador Volcanoes + Chimborazo Team Climb
- Professional mountain guides
- Team hotels and mountain huts at double occupancy (excluding early arrivals or late departures)
- Breakfast is provided daily, and expedition food is available in the huts. While on the mountain, dinners and breakfasts will be provided. Lunch is mountaineering style, which means you will eat a steady graze throughout the day to keep your energy levels high.
- Guidance and expedition management
- All group transportation is provided while on the expedition. If you depart early, you are responsible for the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation.
- Team gear, including fuel, ropes, safety gear, and tents for Chimborazo
- Satellite phone to update the CTSS blog. Also available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded from the Ecuador Volcanoes + Chimborazo Team Climb
- Flights to and from Quito, Ecuador, and associated travel expenses (e.g., hotels, excess baggage fees, visas, departure taxes, food) getting to and from Ecuador
- All costs incurred prior to the start date of the trip and after the end date.
- Ecuadorean visa fees
- In-town and off-mountain meals in Ecuador (we will just split the bill at the end of each meal)
- Personal climbing gear and snacks
- Any additional meals and transportation outside the expedition
- Bar tabs, minibars, hotel internet bills, laundry, etc.
- Expenses while on the expedition that are above and beyond the normal scope of the trip, such as medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, rescues, snacks, flight changes, alcohol, gifts for friends and family, specialty coffees, and bottled water, among others.
- Expenses incurred due to events outside CTSS's control, such as delays or interruptions, political events, natural events, or disasters. These may include additional expenses, such as extra hotel nights, resulting from delays.
- Trip insurance policy that includes personal climbing, medical, rescue, evacuation, trip interruption, and trip cancellation insurance
- Single-room accommodations, if desired and pre-booked
- Guide tips (customary but optional)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Ecuador Volcanoes Team Climb
Ecuador Volcanoes Team Climb
Team Departure: $3,995 USD
Dates:
- January 26 – February 5, 2025
- November 5 – 15, 2025
- November 5 – 15, 2025 (All-Women Team Climb)
This expedition is our traditional guided team climb and our most popular expedition that ascends both Cotopaxi (18,996 feet) and Cayambe (19,347 feet). It is certainly one of the best “bang for your buck” climbing programs in the world!
- If these dates don’t work for you, or you would like a private trip and private guide, we also build custom itineraries for many of our climbers.
- Add on Chimborazo (20,548 feet), which is Ecuador’s tallest peak and the furthest point from the center of the Earth.
- Looking to brush up on your technical mountaineering skills before the expedition starts? Join us for our two-day Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On to review cramponing, mountain efficiency, self-arrest, glacier travel, and more.
- Round out your experience with our Friends & Family or Galápagos Islands add-ons.
Even though our Ecuador Volcanoes expedition is close to the Equator, don’t underestimate the cold. Many people make this mistake and are under-prepared for the climb and the extreme conditions they encounter, especially on summit days. These are real alpine climbs, and conditions can be very cold.
This expedition provides guidance, leadership, program oversight by renowned expedition leader Mike Hamill, local guides, logistics, team gear, porters, food, and support for a summit attempt on both Cotopaxi and Cayambe.
This itinerary is only a rough estimate and will be determined by weather and acclimatization. This is adventure travel, meaning things rarely go as planned, and this schedule will likely change. Climbers need to be adaptable and positive. We always recommend climbers arrive in Quito, Ecuador, on Day 1, which is your arrival day, meaning you can book your flights to arrive at any time on Day 1. Please let us know if you want us to arrange logistics for early arrivals or for a single-rooming option at an additional cost.
- Day 1: Arrive in Quito, Ecuador
- Day 2: Gear checks, Equator visit, Teleférico de Quito (cable car)
- Day 3: Acclimatization hike on Rumiñahui Central (15,203 feet)
- Day 4: Travel to Cotopaxi for training
- Day 5: Hike to the Refugio José Rivas on Cotopaxi
- Day 6: Summit Cotopaxi (18,996 feet) and descent to Hacienda La Ciénega
- Day 7: Drive to the Refugio Ruales Oleas Bergé on Cayambe
- Day 8: Acclimatization day or possible summit day
- Day 9: Summit Cayambe (19,347 feet) and drive to Termas de Papallacta
- Day 10: Drive to Quito and enjoy a celebration dinner
- Day 11: Departure day for those not climbing Chimborazo
Our expeditions are designed to be fully inclusive, except for some services and items of a personal nature, like flights, gear, and insurance. Here’s a detailed list so you know what to expect.
Included in the Ecuador Volcanoes Team Climb
- Professional mountain guides
- Team hotels and mountain huts at double occupancy (excluding early arrivals or late departures)
- Breakfast is provided daily, and expedition food is available in the huts. While on the mountain, dinners and breakfasts will be provided. Lunch is mountaineering style, which means you will eat a steady graze throughout the day to keep your energy levels high.
- Guidance and expedition management
- All group transportation is provided while on the expedition. If you depart early, you are responsible for the added expenses for transport, lodging, rescue, and evacuation.
- Team gear, including fuel, ropes, safety gear, and tents for Chimborazo
- Satellite phone to update the CTSS blog. Also available to clientele at $3/min
Excluded from the Ecuador Volcanoes Team Climb
- Flights to and from Quito, Ecuador, and associated travel expenses (e.g., hotels, excess baggage fees, visas, departure taxes, food) getting to and from Ecuador
- All costs incurred prior to the start date of the trip and after the end date.
- Ecuadorean visa fees
- In-town and off-mountain meals in Ecuador (we will just split the bill at the end of each meal)
- Personal climbing gear and snacks
- Any additional meals and transportation outside the expedition
- Bar tabs, minibars, hotel internet bills, laundry, etc.
- Expenses while on the expedition that are above and beyond the normal scope of the trip, such as medical treatment, evacuation, trip interruption, rescues, snacks, flight changes, alcohol, gifts for friends and family, specialty coffees, and bottled water, among others.
- Expenses incurred due to events outside CTSS's control, such as delays or interruptions, political events, natural events, or disasters. These may include additional expenses, such as extra hotel nights, resulting from delays.
- Trip insurance policy that includes personal climbing, medical, rescue, evacuation, trip interruption, and trip cancellation insurance
- Single-room accommodations, if desired and pre-booked
- Guide tips (customary but optional)
All prices are in US Dollars.
CTSS requires clients to buy trip insurance for all expeditions. Please see our page on trip insurance and cancellation policy for more information.
All payments once submitted are non-refundable and non-transferable. If balances are not received by specified dates, the client forfeits their place on the program and any prior fees paid.
Ecuador Volcanoes
ECUADOR VOLCANOES | South America
Price Range:
$3,995 USD
Elevation:
18,996 - 20,548 feet
Duration:
11 - 14 days
Difficulty:
Advanced Beginner to Intermediate
Route:
Standard Route
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One of our best expeditions, the Ecuadorian Volcanoes offer serious bang for your buck with easy access to world class climbing in a relatively short time frame.
This wildly popular expedition tackles two high-altitude gems, Cayambe (18,996 feet) and Cotopaxi (19,347 feet), during our regular program, with the opportunity to tack on third Ecuadorean giant, Chimborazo (20,548 feet).
This expedition will begin and end in Quito (9,350 feet), located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains in central Ecuador. Once you arrive, acclimatization becomes your first objective before moving south to the picturesque Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest volcanoes and Ecuador’s second-highest summit. Since 1738, Cotopaxi has erupted more than 50 times, most recently in 2022, resulting in the creation of numerous valleys formed by lahars (mudflows) around the volcano.
Then, in a gradual altitude progression, you head north to Cayambe, which is Ecuador’s third-highest mountain, about 70 kilometers northeast of Quito. Cayambe is the only major mountain in the world whose summit straddles the Equator. Indeed, it is the only snow-capped mountain situated directly on the Equator. Following our climb of Cayambe, you unwind and recover at the Termas de Papallacta hot springs before returning to Quito.
For those adding on Chimborazo, you will head south for a chance to summit Ecuador’s tallest peak. This inactive stratovolcano is not only a fantastic climb, but it’s also the farthest point from the center of the Earth, given its position on the planet’s equatorial bulge (whereas Mount Everest is the highest point above sea level). We highly recommend climbing Chimborazo, as it’s a great way to make the most of your acclimatization, training, investment and time in Ecuador.
Highlights:
- Pack in three iconic high-altitude summits, Cotopaxi, Cayambe, and Chimborazo in just two weeks with our most talented mountain guides.
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Stay in luxurious haciendas (think 400-year-old estates), boutique hotels, and well-appointed mountain huts. Not a tent in sight.
- Experience the rich culture and amazing hospitality of one of the world’s best travel destinations—Ecuador.
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Relax post-climb in Termas de Papallacta‘s natural hot springs.
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Choosing the Right Option
At CTSS, we offer a variety of different climb options to customize your Ecuador experience to your climbing style and ability.
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Allowing you to customize your expedition to suit your needs is a huge priority for us.
As mountaineers ourselves, we understand that it’s the little things that can make the difference. Comfortable, well-rested climbers are successful climbers, and climbers who have objectives that are suited to their skill level are happy climbers.
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Ecuador Volcanoes Gear Rentals
While there are several gear rental shops throughout Quito, Ecuador, we highly recommend either renting at home before you depart or owning all required gear. CTSS cannot guarantee the availability of any rental gear in Quito, especially during the busy climbing season. Additionally, we cannot guarantee the quality or condition of any rental gear. Having a gear failure while on one of your climbs would be an unfortunate reason not to summit.
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What other activities can I do while in Ecuador?
Join us for one of our Add-On activities, or make it a three-mountain expedition:
- Pre-Expedition Acclimatization & Skills Training Add-On
- Chimborazo Climb
- Galápagos Islands Add-On
What is a good fitness and training program for this climb?
- Climbing conditioning – pack-loaded uphill hiking, walking, and stair climbing
- Strength training – for the lower and upper body
- Cardiovascular training – including both aerobic and anaerobic workouts without pack weight
- Flexibility training
What is the acclimatization schedule like?
Our entire expedition is slow in order to allow our bodies ample time to acclimate. We will be at moderate-to-high altitude on our climbs, and this slow process will allow us to avoid altitude sickness and improve the chance of success on the climbs. There will be some downtime because of this. Bring a Kindle/book and be patient. Make sure to communicate with your guides directly if you are experiencing any altitude issues or symptoms.
Will I need to share a room?
All our hotels in Ecuador are double occupancy. Often, these hotels are full during the busy climbing season so we will need to know in advance if you would like to book single supplements. On the mountain, you will be impressed with the hut facilities, but, like all mountain huts around the world, they are dormitory-style, so bring some earplugs and an eye mask if you are easily disturbed.
Will I be sleeping in a tent?
While your friends think you are suffering in the mountains, you’ll actually be staying in luxurious haciendas (think 400-year-old estates), boutique hotels, and well-appointed mountain huts. Not a tent in sight for our standard team climb of Cayambe and Cotopaxi. If you are adding on Chimborazo, you will use a tent at the High Camp.
What about food and water?
CTSS recommends that you stick to bottled or treated water throughout your expedition in Ecuador. While eating out, we recommend being careful around fresh vegetables as they may have been washed in poor-quality water. Use discretion when purchasing food from restaurants and street vendors.
Will I need to purchase trip insurance?
Yes. Trip delay and cancellation, rescue, repatriation, and medical insurance are mandatory for this program for your own benefit. We have seen too many times when people need to cancel their trip either before or during the expedition for reasons such as injury, health, family, and business matters. With such a long trip and so much at stake, climbers need to be prepared for contingencies.
How can my family and friends reach me?
There is cell service during much of our trip in Ecuador but roaming charges can be expensive, so please consult your carrier to determine data/calling rates prior to departure. In addition, many of the hotels have wi-fi that may be accessible during your stay. There may be a satellite phone with the team on the climb, but don’t expect to be able to use it on an unlimited basis as we typically reserve it for emergencies. We can make it available to the team at $3/minute.
If your family needs to reach you for an urgent reason, we encourage them to contact the office via info@climbingthesevensummits.com, and they can contact us to pass on a message or arrange a phone call. We contact base with updates most days, which are published on our blog. The blog is a great news source for family and friends wanting to follow along. Please also advise your loved ones that no news is good news and help manage their expectations that they won’t necessarily hear updates every day or be able to contact you as easily as on other expeditions.
Didn't find an answer to your question? Don't hesitate to ask us.
Free Expert Advice
When you sign up for an expedition, you become part of the CTSS family.
This means a free consult with Mike Hamill—the author of Climbing the Seven Summits—or one of his expert team.
Personalized strategy, progression planning, expert coaching, and advice on how to get the most out of your climbing journey!
6x Reasons to Choose CTSS
Safety
Your safety and success are our priorities in that order. We make conservative decisions, plan redundancies and all our guides have wilderness medical training, safety & rescue plans & access to doctors 24/7 to help keep you safe.
Value for $
We keep our overheads low to pass savings on to you. We are proud to offer the best service for the most competitive price, without skimping on safety or taking shortcuts with logistics, staffing and infrastructure.
Holistic Approach
Our service goes far beyond the mountain. Think of us as your climbing coach, we’ll be there from start to finish to prepare, debrief and plan your progression as a mountaineer, whether your goal is a single summit or the Seven.
Guides & Team
Guides can make or break your climb. We hand pick the most qualified, tenured, tested and personable guides and Sherpa in the world. Owner and mountaineer Mike Hamill personally oversees the management of each expedition.
Our Values
We care about you, our people and the planet and we walk our talk by donating a percentage of every expedition to Tiger of the Snows fund which supports outdoor tourism workers all over the world and following strict Leave No Trace principles amongst other initiatives.
Success
We have an unparalleled summit success rate. How? We do it in a myriad of ways; like a great chef’s secret sauce, we've fine tuned the recipe over decades but most importantly, we believe in you & your ability to achieve your goals and are invested in putting you on top.
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"The mountains are unbelievable, the accommodations are world-class—I don't know if I can ever sleep in a tent again—the cabins are phenomenal, the food is great, the guides are phenomenal. I can't say enough good things about it. I definitely will be back here again for sure."
- Maureen B
Ecuador Volcanoes Adventures
Testimonials
Ecuador Volcanoes Inquiry Form
We are Ready for Summit Bids!
Morning 8th of May
A short and sweet update today. Everyone is back at Everest Base Camp, having finished acclimatization rotations successfully.
We are ready for summit bids.
Oxygen Training at Everest Base Camp
Morning 7th May
Some snow in the forecast again today, which would be helpful to improve conditions on the Lhotse Face.
Today, we are wrapping up rotations as our 30 Day Speed Climber Jesse & guide Tomi who tagged Camp 3 yesterday drop back down to Everest Base Camp, along with Personal Sherpa climbers Aga, Darragh and 1:1 Climber Pascale.
Meanwhile at Everest Base Camp we’ve been running oxygen training clinics. Doing dry runs and teaching trouble shooting. Practicing until our climbers are confident with the fit, feel, and function is a critical part of any Everest expedition.
The whole team are now focused on resting deeply, eating, and readying for summit bids.
Eyes turn to the weather and the strategy. Soon it’s time to head to the top of the world.
Final Everest Rotation in Motion
Monday morning, the 6th May
Hello from the Himalayas. A quick update for you all as you round out your weekends and kick into a new week.
Things continue to be smooth on Everest. Back at Base Camp the Western Guided Team and 1:1 Private climbers Marc, Randall, Blake, and Yinghong are resting and recovering well.
Climbing up the Lhotse Face today we have Pascale and our Personal Sherpa team Aga & Darragh. There was some light snowfall yesterday afternoon, that will aid them today. Their goal is to tag Camp 3, return to Camp 2 for tonight and drop back to Everest Base Camp tomorrow.
We really appreciate how well this team is working and climbing together as they round out their final acclimatization round and turn their focus to the summit in coming weeks.
The route is now open to Camp 4 and the Sherpa team is hard at work staging the mountain. There is stable weather now and in the forecast, which all bode well for the rope fixing team to head to the summit soon.
Finally – a hearty farewell to our Camp 3 climber Andrea who is in Kathmandu with guide Robert – safe travels as you make your way home and congratulations!
