Why Climb in Ecuador with Alpine Ascents?

Experience
We have been guiding in Ecuador for the past 20 years and have built close relationships in the communities where we guide and tour. We consistently run multiple expeditions every year. Our familiarity with the region, combined with our expertise and knowledge of mountain climbing, lend a depth and richness to every expedition that we feel is unrivaled in the guiding community.

Guides
We are blessed to have Jose Luis Peralvo, an Ecuadorian native as our Lead Guide and local expert. He also guides for us throughout the world, including 3 summits of Everest. In addition to Jose Luis, we employ the best local guides who have a wealth of training and experience climbing the volcanoes of Ecuador. Our guides are key to making your climb an enjoyable and success experience. Our guide to climber ratio is 2:1 on Antizana and Cotopaxi and 1:1 on Chimborazo.

The Mountains We Climb
Antisana (18,874ft / 5752m), Cotopaxi (19,347ft / 5,897m) and Chimborazo(20,701ft / 6,310m), are each unique in their own way. The challenges they provide and the beauty of the environments in which they lie are all truly amazing. Also those who are interested in climbing higher mountains around the world, these climbs are an excellent training ground. (Perfect for those who were successful on Rainier and have an eye on Denali).

Gradual Acclimatization
A total of 4 nights are spent in Quito (9000ft) and Papallacta (11,800ft) followed by 2 more nights in our own private Base Camp at 13,300 ft before moving to High Camp (15,500). Traditionally climbers have had to move direct from 10,000 ft to 15,500, which can be challenging.

Quito
We spend a total of three nights in the capital enjoying incredible restaurants and local entertainment. During the days we have cultural tours combined with acclimatization hikes. On our second day we take a gondola to 13,012 feet and slowly hike to the summit of Ruco Pichincha (4,698m / 15,413ft). It is a magnificent hike with great view of the city and surrounding volcanoes.

Papallacta Hot Springs and Spa
We spend two nights at this magnificent spa and hot springs. We acclimatize in the surrounding mountains while soaking in hot springs and enjoying the services of the spa in the evening. In front of all our rooms are spotless baths of different temperatures drained and refilled every day. Papallacta is a real luxury after hiking in the mountains.

Private Cooks and Accommodations in the Huts and Our Base Camp.
Each of our climbs has dedicated chefs who prepare excellent meals so the guides can focus on you. In the sometimes busy huts we have our own private dormitory for our group. Everyone rest much better and it all makes for an easier start in the morning. Our base camp on Antisana has cooks with a large dining tent.

Schedule Flexibility
If you do not have 16 days for climbing, you can join our 12 day or 9 day program. We recommend the 16 day climb because you are already acclimatized which allows you to climb more mountains in a short period of time. But all three choices make for a great adventure and great climbing.