Our Ecuador team had a great experience climbing Illiniza Sur the last two days. Great weather and perfect snow conditions made this technical route and absolute joy to climb.

From the bus two days ago they hiked about 2.5 hours up to the Illiniza Refugio nestled between Illiniza Sur and Illiniza Norte. Waking at 2:00AM yesterday the ascended the complex route through steep snow and ice to Illiniza Sur’s summit at 17,218ft.

After their climb they descended back to the bus and drove to Hacienda La Cienega, one of the oldest Hacienda’s in Ecuador, for a well earned and luxurious rest.

Today the team will head up to the Cayambe hut for two nights, making their summit bid on the second night. They’ll be out of internet and cell service there, but we’re excited to see the photos and hear how the climb went when they get back down!

Congrats on your first summit team! Best of luck on Cayambe.

Cheers,

CTSS Team