Best place for Rock Climbing in Ecuador
29 August 2023Here, you will find some of the best Hikes and Summits near Cayambe Volcano. Perfect for acclimatization and to train for the highest summits in Ecuador.
Imbabura Summit
Altitude: 4557 m.
Km: 8,2
Positive elevation gain: 1197 m.
Time: 6h
Physical level: medium
Technical level: medium (with exposed vertigo steps)
Price:
1 person $80 *
2 people $40 *
3 people and more $35 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Cubilche Summit
Altitude: 3857 m.
Km: 5,5
Positive elevation gain: 500 m.
Time: 2h30
Physical level: easy
Technical level: easy
Price:
1 person $50 *
2 people $30 *
3 people and more $25 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Cusin Summit
Altitude: 4000 m.
Km: 9
Positive elevation gain: 530 m.
Time: 3h
Physical level: medium
Technical level: easy
Price:
1 person $30 *
2 people and more $20 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Angureal Summit
Altitude: 4832 m.
Km: 18-20
Positive elevation gain: 1230 m.
Time: 8h
Physical level: medium/high
Technical level: easy/medium
Price:
1 person $80 *
2 people $40 *
3 people and more $35 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Loop to the Condor Viewpoint
Altitude: 4180 m.
Km: 14
Positive elevation gain: 520 m.
Time: 5h
Physical level: easy/medium
Technical level: easy
Price:
1 person $20 *
2 people and more $15 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Mojanda Lagoon and Fuya Fuya
Altitude: 4279 m.
Km: 4
Positive elevation gain: 545 m.
Time: 2h30
Physical level: easy/medium
Technical level: easy
Price:
1 person $80 *
2 people $45 *
3 people and more $35 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Cuicocha Loop
Altitude: 3488 m.
Km: 12,15
Positive elevation gain: 535 m.
Time: 3h-4h30
Physical level: easy
Technical level: easy
Price:
1 person $80 *
2 people $45 *
3 people and more $35 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Horseback riding
3h-4h horseback riding in the páramo of the community.
Level: easy
Price:
1 person $60 *
2 people $45 *
3 people and more $35 *
* Includes guide, transportation
Hikes and Summits near Cayambe
Rising majestically to over 5486 m, Cayambe Volcano is one of the highest peaks in Ecuador and a must-see destination for adventurous travelers. Located about 80 km northeast of Quito, Cayambe is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and is still considered active, with minor eruptions occurring as recently as 2017. While climbing to the snow-capped summit is a challenging endeavour requiring technical equipment and several days, there are plenty of activities to enjoy at lower elevations around the volcano. Here you can find some of the best Hikes and Summits near Cayambe.
One of the most popular things to do is visit a dairy farm at the base of Cayambe. Due to its rich volcanic soil, the area is renowned for its dairy production. Numerous farms welcome visitors to see how cheese and yogurt are made and sampled fresh from the source. For a deliciously authentic experience, try fresh squeaky cheese, called queso de hoja, wrapped in banana leaves.
Just a short drive from the dairy farms is the stunning Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve, spanning over 400,000 acres. Home to a diverse landscape ranging from rainforest to paramo grasslands to glaciers, the reserve offers fantastic wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities. Spot over 300 bird species, including Andean condors, or wander through otherworldly Polylepis forests dotted with twisted and gnarly trees.
The town of Cayambe, specially here at Punanti Hostel, provides a great home base for exploring the volcano. In Cayambe town, stroll through the cobbled streets and savor tasty local dishes like hornado (roast pork), llapingachos (potato pancakes), and fresh cheese at the town's many restaurants.
You can also visit the Monday market when indigenous Otavaleño people come to town to sell handicrafts, embroidered textiles, and other goods. The 17th-century church in the main plaza features an ornate white and gold interior and makes for a lovely photo stop.
Adventurous souls looking for a serious physical challenge can brave the icy climb up Cayambe Volcano itself. Though technical equipment like ice axes and crampons are required, several guide companies lead expeditions for novice climbers, and we can recommend the best. As you rise above the clouds, incredible views open up, and you just might catch a sunrise or sunset from the summit if timed right. Keep an eye out for one of Cayambe's many glaciers as well.
With its towering snow-draped peak, prime location along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, and wealth of outdoor activities, Cayambe Volcano is a top destination not to be missed when visiting Ecuador and the Andes region. Whether you come to climb, hike, or simply admire the views, Cayambe will reward you with memories lasting a lifetime. So come and visit us to Punanti Mountain Lodge in Cayambe.
