Climbing Ecuador: Chimborazo Prince Challenge (10-Day Expedition)
January 04–14, 2026 | Curated by Dave Mudek
Challenge yourself in the Andes on this progressive, hut-based mountaineering expedition designed to take aspiring climbers from trekking terrain to a full high-altitude summit push. Beginning in Machachi, Ecuador (just south of Quito), the 10-day Chimborazo Prince Challenge methodically stair-steps up in elevation with acclimatization climbs on Pasochoa, El Corazón, Illinizas Norte, and a glacier-skills-based summit attempt on Cotopaxi (5,897 m) — before making a final push on Chimborazo (6,268 m), the point on Earth closest to the sun.
The itinerary includes guiding, transportation, permits, huts, in-country logistics, and all meals on the mountain — with the option to rent technical gear locally (crampons, boots, ice axe, harness, helmet, etc.), making this a perfect entry into alpine climbing without needing to buy new kit. Nights on Cotopaxi and Chimborazo are spent in mountain huts, not tents.
Trip Coordination & Inclusions – Estimated at $2,000 per person + International Flights (double occupancy)
The following experiences and accommodations are pre-planned for the group and included in the estimated expedition cost:
- Airport transfer from Quito (UIO) to Machachi at designated group arrival time
- All in-country transportation during the expedition (between Machachi, trailheads, and mountain huts)
- 10-day Chimborazo Prince Challenge program led by licensed Ecuadorian mountain guides (bilingual)
- Progressive acclimatization climbs:
• Pasochoa (4,200 m)
• El Corazón (4,790 m)
• Illinizas Norte (5,126 m)
• Cotopaxi summit attempt + glacier training (5,897 m) - Chimborazo summit attempt via the Prince Route (6,268 m)
- Mountain hut accommodations on Cotopaxi (1 night) and Chimborazo (1 night)
- Lodging in Machachi during acclimatization phase (shared rooms, double occupancy)
- All meals listed during the expedition, including on-mountain hut meals
- Climbing permits, park fees (except Pasochoa entrance), and program logistics
- Expedition coordination & international flight planning assistance
Not Included:
International flights to/from Quito, personal expenses, technical gear rentals (boots, crampons, harness, helmet, ice axe, etc.), Pasochoa entrance fee ($5), snacks, alcoholic beverages, meals not stated in the itinerary, and gratuities for guides.
Note: Pricing is based on double occupancy and subject to minor adjustments based on final group size, hut assignments, and rental needs.
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1 – Arrival at Hostería Papagayo (3,200 m)
Check-in, orientation, and acclimatization at base lodge. - Day 2 – Pasochoa (4,199 m) (B / Box Lunch)
Introductory acclimatization hike (3–4 hrs). Overnight at Papagayo. - Day 3 – El Corazón (4,790 m) (B / Box Lunch)
Moderate acclimatization climb. Overnight at Papagayo. - Day 4 – Illinizas Norte (5,126 m) (B / Box Lunch)
Steeper climb + final acclimatization scramble. Overnight at Papagayo. - Day 5 – Rest Day at Papagayo (B)
Free day to recover – optional yoga, hot tub, trails, rose farm visit. - Day 6–7 – Cotopaxi Summit Attempt
• Day 6: Drive to Jose Ribas Refuge (4,800 m) (B / L / D) – glacier skills + overnight in refuge.
• Day 7: Night summit push (B) – return to Papagayo. - Day 8 – Rest Day at Papagayo (B)
Free time to relax or explore. - Days 9–10 – Chimborazo Summit Attempt
• Day 9: Drive to Chimborazo High Camp (4,850 m) (B / Box Lunch / D) – skills refresher + overnight.
• Day 10: Midnight summit push, return to Papagayo (B) – end of services.
Interested in joining one of our upcoming group adventures?
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