Climbing Ecuador: Chimborazo Prince Challenge
A 10-day hut-based mountaineering program that climbs step by step from trekking peaks to a summit attempt on Chimborazo (6,268 m).
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.
What’s included
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), and a Cotopaxi summit attempt with 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 and 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 and final acclimatization scramble. Overnight at Papagayo.
- Day 5: Rest day at Papagayo (B). Free day to recover, with optional yoga, hot tub, trails or a rose farm visit.
- Day 6: Drive to the José Ribas Refuge (4,800 m) (B / L / D) for glacier skills and an overnight in the refuge.
- Day 7: Night summit push on Cotopaxi (B), then return to Papagayo.
- Day 8: Rest day at Papagayo (B). Free time to relax or explore.
- Day 9: Drive to Chimborazo High Camp (4,850 m) (B / box lunch / D) for a skills refresher and an overnight.
- Day 10: Midnight summit push on Chimborazo, return to Papagayo (B). End of services.