CLIMB CARIHUAIRAZO IN ECUADOR
Mount Carihuairazo is an extinct stratovolcano in the central Ecuadorian Andes located 10kms from the country's highest mountain Chimborazo. The hike towards the base of Carihuairazo is spectacular and done in the shadow of the towering northern face of Mount Chimborazo. The route up to the summit of Mount Carihuairazo is not technically difficult, which makes this a popular climb for beginners, but it does require a good level of fitness and acclimatization to the altitude.
The trek begins at around 3,500 meters above sea level, and the climb to the summit of Carihuairazo reaches an altitude of 5,020 meters. The trek and climb take about two to three days, depending on the pace of the group and the weather conditions. From the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Ecuadorian Andes, including several nearby volcanoes such as Chimborazo, Tungurahua, and Sangay.
The foothills surrounding Carihuairazo are inside the "Reserva de Produccion Faunistica Chimborazo" (Reserve for the Production of Fauna) which has seen one of the continents most successful breeding programs to reintroduce endangered camilids like the Vicuñas into the this area of the Andes where they were previously hunted until their population collapsed. The Carihuairazo trek takes you through a variety of ecosystems, from grasslands to high-altitude forests, where you can observe a diverse range of fauna including Andean foxes, Vicuñas, and a variety of bird species.
The trek begins at around 3,500 meters above sea level, and the climb to the summit of Carihuairazo reaches an altitude of 5,020 meters. The trek and climb take about two to three days, depending on the pace of the group and the weather conditions. From the summit, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Ecuadorian Andes, including several nearby volcanoes such as Chimborazo, Tungurahua, and Sangay.
The trek and climb require a certain level of fitness and experience, and it is important to be properly prepared and equipped for the challenge. As with any outdoor activity, it is essential to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize impact and preserve the area's biodiversity.
Mountain Mythology
Local Kichwa mythology tells that Carihuairazo, a volcanic caldera, were destroyed by Taita (Father) Chimborazo while he was fighting for the grace of the volcano Mamá Tungurahua. While the Carihuairazo Volcano is the little brother of the Chimborazo Volcano with an altitude of 5,018 m (16,463 ft), it’s the best option to acclimatize before to climbing Mount Chimborazo
Carihuairazo Climb/Hike Includes:
- ALL Equipment: snow boots, crampons, ice axe, etc
- Warm clothing suitable for climbing the mountain
- Transportation to and from Mount Chimborazo
- Entrance permits to the Chimborazo National Park
- Accommodation in the Refugio (Base Camp)
- Dinner in the Refugio before the climb
- Snacks and Drinks during the climbAll breakfasts, lunches and dinners & dining
Carihuairazo Costs
INQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS
