Hiking on Cayambe

Hiking on Cayambe volcano up to the refuge, out to the Hermoso glacier, and over to the Laguna Glacier, is one of the best acclimatization hikes. Cayambe is the least visited of the major volcanoes of the Ecuadorian Andes. The high altitudes, great views and peaceful surroundings make this hike a favorite.

We drive by jeep up through the farmland to an altitude of 4,200 meters. Our hike up to the refuge at 4,600 meters, is about 2 hours. The Oleas-Berge-Ruales refuge located on a ridge has a stupendous view over the Hermoso Glacier, and is the best maintained mountain refuge in Ecuador. From the refuge we descend about 10 minutes to see the tongue of the glacier. We continue our hike back up the mountain passing the refuge we have a steep hike over a rock pile to arrive at the Laguna Glacier at 4800 meters.

Safari also offers a Cayambe Volcano Day Adventure

For more information on Cayambe please read Safari's Guide to Andes Snow Peaks or check-out the Andes Climbing School

Other peaks to acclimatize:

• Pasochoa 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
• Guagua Pichincha 4,700 meters (15,739 feet)
• Corazon 4,700 meters (15,710 feet)
• Iliniza North 5,200 meters (16,818 feet)

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