During our time in Ecuador, the allure of Mount Chimborazo caught my eye immediately. It’s the country’s highest peak, standing at an awe-inspiring 6,268.2 meters (20,565 feet), and it’s known for being the closest point on Earth to the sun. I remember reading about how, unlike some other treks, the Chimborazo climb is non-technical, meaning you don’t need advanced ice climbing skills to take it on. That made it sound achievable, even for someone like me who enjoys a good challenge but isn’t exactly a mountaineering expert.
When we discussed the climb, my wife was just as intrigued. The idea of standing on the tallest peak measured from the Earth’s center, surpassing even Everest in that regard, felt surreal. We knew this was one of the best things to do in Ecuador, and it felt like something we just couldn’t pass up.
The adventure begins between midnight and dawn, which added to the thrill. I could already imagine us bundled up, headlamps on, ascending into the starry sky. From what I learned, most summit attempts aim for either the minor Veintimilla peak at 6,230 meters (20,440 feet) or, if you’re lucky, the major Cumbre Maxima peak, right at daybreak. The thought of standing there, watching the sun rise from what feels like the top of the world, gave me chills.
Altitude sickness was something I had been a little nervous about, especially since Chimborazo is no joke when it comes to height. A guide recommended taking ChlorOxygen supplements to help alleviate some of the symptoms. I made a mental note to pack them, hoping they’d give us an edge in tackling the thin air.
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Where is Chimborazo Located?
Chimborazo Volcano holds a special place in our memories from the trip to Ecuador. Nestled in the high Andes, it’s about 235 kilometers south of Quito, and the closest city is Riobamba. I remember the drive there—it was one of those moments when you feel the world opening up in front of you, with the towering peak in the distance, drawing us closer. My wife had been excited about this part of the trip, and as we got nearer, the vastness of Chimborazo became more and more real.
Surrounding the volcano is the Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve, an expansive stretch of nearly 60,000 hectares. It felt like we were entering a world entirely untouched by time. One of the most magical moments was spotting herds of wild vicuñas roaming the reserve. They have this gentle grace about them, almost as if they’re aware of the sacred land they’re part of. We were lucky to see them up close; they’re like smaller, more adorable versions of llamas and alpacas.
I was especially taken by how soft their wool is—finer than cashmere, according to the locals. My wife couldn’t stop gushing about how delicate their coats looked. It’s no wonder their wool is so highly regarded. Being in their presence made the experience of visiting Chimborazo even more special, like we were part of something larger, more connected to nature.
How to Get To Chimborazo
When we were planning our trip to Chimborazo, figuring out the logistics was part of the adventure. From Quito, we headed to Quitumbe terminal and hopped on a southbound bus to Riobamba. The ride cost about $3.75, which was a great deal, though the journey took a little over three hours. Sitting there, watching the Andes roll by, gave us plenty of time to soak in the stunning landscapes. My wife was completely captivated by the changing scenery, and I have to admit, so was I.
Once we arrived in Riobamba, the next step was catching a bus to Guaranda. The Terminal Terrestre de Riobamba was our next stop, where we made sure to ask the driver to drop us off at the Chimborazo entry. It was around a 30-minute ride after passing through the small town of San Juan. This part of the journey felt like we were getting closer to something truly special—like the volcano was calling us.
For those who prefer convenience or are short on time, there’s always the option of taking a taxi. The drive to the trailhead near the Whymper Hut takes about half an hour, making it a quicker way to get to the start of the climb. We debated it but ultimately decided the bus ride added to the whole experience.
How High is Chimborazo?
Chimborazo is truly a sight to behold. As we approached this massive ice-capped stratovolcano, its sheer size took my breath away. Towering at 6,310 meters (20,703 feet), it feels almost otherworldly, especially when you consider its last known eruption happened way back in 550 AD. My wife and I were in awe of how much history this volcano has witnessed—standing there, it felt like we were in the presence of something ancient and powerful.
The scale of Chimborazo is hard to grasp until you’re up close. With a circumference of 78 miles and a diameter of 30 miles, it absolutely dominates the landscape. I had always thought Chimborazo was an extinct volcano, but learning that it’s still considered active added an extra layer of excitement to our visit. It made me reflect on how nature is constantly shifting, even in ways we can’t always see.
Standing there, with that looming peak in the distance, was a humbling reminder of the power and unpredictability of the natural world.
Is Chimborazo Really the Highest Peak in the World?
While standing at the base of Chimborazo, I couldn’t help but marvel at a fact that still blows my mind: in one key way, Chimborazo is taller than Everest. Sure, when measured from sea level, Everest wins with its 8,848 meters compared to Chimborazo’s 6,268 meters. In fact, Chimborazo doesn’t even crack the top 100 highest mountains on Earth by that standard. But when you consider the scientific factors, it’s a whole different story.
The Earth’s shape plays a fascinating role here. Because our planet is not a perfect sphere—it’s slightly thicker at the Equator—Chimborazo’s summit ends up being the farthest point from the Earth’s center. I remember reading about this before our trip and telling my wife how it’s due to Chimborazo’s location, just one degree south of the Equator. In comparison, Everest sits further north at 27.6 degrees, meaning its peak is actually closer to the Earth’s core.
In numerical terms, Everest is 6,382.3 kilometers from the center of the Earth, while Chimborazo surpasses it at 6,384.4 kilometers. Learning about this while being right there at the foot of the mountain added a new level of awe to the experience.
And here’s the kicker—Chimborazo isn’t even the tallest mountain in the Andes; it ranks 37th. That little detail makes its claim to fame even more remarkable. This intriguing discovery was made in 2012, and for me, it only added to the uniqueness of visiting such an incredible place.
Best Time To Visit Chimborazo
When we were planning our trip to Chimborazo, timing was everything. The best months for climbing are June and July, as well as December through early January—perfect for us since we were there during Ecuador’s summer. This period is when the Andean weather is at its best, with sunny and pleasant conditions making the experience that much more enjoyable. I remember feeling relieved that we had avoided the bad weather that typically hits between February and May, especially in April when things can get pretty rough.
During the day, the temperature was a comfortable 23 degrees Celsius (73 degrees Fahrenheit), which was great for all the outdoor activities we had planned. It was warm enough to feel energized, but not so hot that it became overwhelming. My wife commented more than once about how perfect the weather was for hiking and exploring the landscape.
But once the sun set, things changed quickly. I wasn’t expecting the temperature to drop as much as it did at night—around 7 or 8 degrees Celsius (45-46 degrees Fahrenheit). We definitely had to bundle up, especially during the early morning hours when we started our climb. It was a reminder that, even in the best weather, Chimborazo has its own set of challenges.
As we ascended higher toward Chimborazo’s towering peak, the temperatures dropped rapidly, reminding us just how extreme the conditions can be at such altitudes. No matter the season, the upper reaches of Chimborazo are notorious for their strong, cold winds and icy temperatures. This weather pattern is a constant, adding to the challenge of the climb. I had read about it, but feeling that biting cold firsthand was something else entirely.
One thing we learned early on was the importance of starting the climb before midnight and aiming to return by 10 a.m. There are a couple of solid reasons for this, and they stuck with us as we planned our summit attempt. First, there’s the risk of rockfall. Around that time, the route near El Castillo—a massive rock wall about an hour from Refugio Whymper—gets dangerous. As the temperatures rise, small and large rocks begin to loosen and fall from the wall. Passing through this area, known as El Corredor, later in the day is like playing a game of chance with falling rocks. It’s one of those things that makes an early start essential.
The other big factor is the cloud cover. By early afternoon, thick clouds tend to roll in, making it nearly impossible to see the route. It’s not just a matter of losing your way—there are huge crevasses on both sides of the regular trail. Losing track of the path in those conditions could be extremely dangerous. We made sure to keep that in mind and stick to the plan, knowing that safety always comes first on a climb like this.
Starting Point
Riobamba turned out to be the perfect launch point for our Chimborazo adventure. Situated about 120 miles (200 km) from Quito, the city provides easy access to the Chimborazo Reserve, and it felt like a natural stop on our journey. We took a bus from Quito’s Quitumbe bus station, which is located just south of the capital. The trip was smooth, and the views on the way down kept us excited for what was to come.
Once in Riobamba, getting to the Chimborazo Reserve was straightforward. We had a couple of options: either take one of the buses heading toward Guaranda and ask the driver to drop us at the Reserve’s entrance or go for a taxi. The bus option was appealing, but we ended up opting for the taxi, which cost about $35. It was quicker and gave us a bit more flexibility with our schedule.
For anyone looking for a hassle-free experience, there’s also the option of booking a tour. Plenty of guides and operators in Riobamba offer all-inclusive packages that cover transportation to Chimborazo. If you decide to go that route, it’s easy to discuss the logistics with them in advance. It’s a great way to ensure that everything runs smoothly, especially if you prefer not to worry about the finer details of getting to the mountain.
Chimborazo Routes
When we were researching the climb up Chimborazo, I was struck by the number of routes available, each offering its own unique challenge. For anyone looking to take on the mountain, the most accessible options are the North Side via Las Murallas Rojas, the North Side via El Castillo (which is the most popular route), and the Original Route, first conquered in 1880. These routes are all classified as grade 2 on the UIAA scale, which means they require some technical climbing skills but are considered achievable for well-prepared climbers.
One thing we quickly realized was that climbing Chimborazo is far more demanding than a typical volcano hike. It’s essential to have proper climbing techniques under your belt before you attempt any of these routes, and we made sure to look into some training before the trip. The thought of being underprepared just wasn’t an option. The climb typically takes about 8 to 9 hours to reach the summit, making it both a physical and mental challenge. The Original Route, for instance, involves a 4,300-foot ascent, while the other two routes require about 3,900 feet of climbing. It sounded daunting, but we were determined.
For those looking for an even greater challenge, the West Face is where things get serious. This route is classified as WI4 due to the need to navigate ice walls, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. I couldn’t help but be in awe of the climbers who take this on—it adds a whole new level of thrill and technical skill to the climb. It’s a reminder that reaching Chimborazo’s summit isn’t just about physical endurance; it requires a profound understanding of climbing techniques and respect for the mountain itself.
Equipped with ice picks and crampons, climbers face an intense challenge on Chimborazo, navigating near-vertical sections that can reach up to 30 feet. The sheer altitude adds another layer of difficulty, making endurance and acclimatization key factors in the climb. I remember reading about these sections and feeling a mix of excitement and respect for those who take on such a demanding route.
For the truly adventurous, the Arista del Sol route offers the ultimate challenge. Classified as a grade 5 climb, it’s the most difficult route on Chimborazo so far. My wife and I marveled at the thought of such an extreme ascent—it’s not just about physical strength but also technical skill and mental focus. The journey begins with a section that’s 65% pure rock climbing, which really tests a climber’s problem-solving abilities in addition to their technical skills.
This route usually takes around two days to complete, adding another layer of strategy and endurance. It’s not just about pushing through—it’s about planning each move, managing energy, and adapting to the terrain. Reaching Chimborazo’s summit through these technical routes is more than an accomplishment; it’s a testament to the climber’s expertise, determination, and deep passion for the mountains. The thought of conquering ice walls, maneuvering through steep rock formations, and overcoming the grueling terrain is an extraordinary adventure, one that leaves a lasting imprint on those who dare to take it on.
Best Time to Climb Chimborazo
The ideal months for climbing Chimborazo are June, July, and from December to early January, when the weather tends to be more favorable. We were lucky to visit during this time, avoiding the rough conditions that hit from February to May, especially in April when bad weather is at its peak.
One crucial tip we learned was to start the climb before midnight and aim to return by 10 a.m., for two very important reasons. First, there’s the risk of rockfall. Around that time, the area near El Castillo—a massive rock wall about an hour from Refugio Whymper—becomes dangerous as the temperature rises. As the day heats up, small and large rocks begin to fall, making the route, known as El Corredor, like a gauntlet of falling debris if you pass through too late. We made sure to keep this in mind when planning our start time.
The second reason is the cloud cover. By early afternoon, thick clouds often roll in, making it incredibly hard to see the trail. The real danger here is that there are large crevasses on both sides of the regular path. Losing your way in that kind of weather can be very dangerous, so sticking to an early start is not just a recommendation—it’s essential for a safe climb. These were the kind of practical tips that helped us prepare mentally for the adventure ahead.
Chimborazo Acclimatization and Climbing Preparation
Before attempting to summit Chimborazo, it’s highly recommended that climbers spend some time at high altitude to see how their bodies react. We made sure to do this ourselves, knowing that adjusting to the altitude would be crucial for our success. Spending time in similar conditions beforehand not only helps you get a feel for what it’s like but also gives your body time to adapt to the thinner air.
In addition to acclimatizing, I would personally recommend taking ChlorOxygen about 1-2 weeks before the trip. We found it really helpful in managing the altitude and making the whole experience more bearable. Altitude sickness can really throw off even the best-prepared climber, so this extra step felt like a small investment in ensuring we had the best chance at reaching the summit.
As for training your body, there are plenty of challenging hikes in Ecuador’s central Andes that are perfect for preparing for Chimborazo. One standout option is hiking to El Altar’s lagoons. The landscapes are breathtaking, and the difficulty level makes it a great warm-up for higher climbs. Another excellent choice is the Ecuadorian Inca Trail in Sangay National Park. Both hikes offer the kind of altitude and physical challenge that will give your body a good sense of what to expect on Chimborazo. For us, these hikes were as much about preparation as they were about enjoying Ecuador’s stunning natural beauty.
Things to Bring to Your Chimborazo Climb
Climbing Chimborazo is definitely not for beginners, and we quickly realized how essential it is to be well-prepared with the right gear. The temperatures on the mountain can drop dramatically, ranging between -3°C and -15°C, so having the proper equipment is critical for both safety and comfort.
We made sure to pack heavy-duty clothing designed for extreme cold, including layers of thermal gear, a down jacket, and insulated pants. Warm gloves, a hat, and a high-quality balaclava were also essential for protecting us from the biting winds. Crampons, an ice axe, and sturdy mountaineering boots were non-negotiable for navigating the icy terrain safely.
If you’re planning this climb, make sure your gear is up to the task. You don’t want to be caught off guard by the harsh conditions, especially as the weather can shift quickly at those altitudes. Having the right equipment gave us peace of mind and made the journey far more enjoyable.
While most tour operators provide their own climbing equipment, it is still recommended to bring your essentials such as:
- Medium backpack for the ascent
- Refillable water bottle
- Sunscreen with a high SPF (50 SPF or higher)
- Lip balm
- Clothing: thermal underwear, hiking socks, t-shirt, waterproof jacket, and pants
- Sunglasses
- Personal hygiene items
- Face mask
- Alcohol-based disinfectant
Camping in Chimborazo
Most climbers begin their Chimborazo ascent from the Whymper refuge, which sits at an elevation of 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). When we arrived, we were impressed by how well-equipped the refuge was. It had everything we needed: four dozen bunk beds with fresh new mattresses, toilets, cold water, basic food supplies, stencils, a gas stove, and even a fireplace to take the edge off the cold. It felt like a cozy base before the real challenge began.
For those who prefer starting from a slightly lower elevation, the Carrel refuge is another option at 4,800 meters (15,744 feet). It offers similar amenities, with 52 beds and the same level of basic supplies. However, beginning your climb from Carrel means setting off about an hour earlier to make up for the lower starting point. Some groups opt for this, but we chose Whymper to give ourselves a little more time in bed!
Camping is also allowed anywhere on the mountain, and we saw a few groups setting up high camps to break up the summit push into two days. In hindsight, this might be a smart move if you want to boost your chances of reaching the top. Breaking the climb into two days not only helps with altitude acclimatization but also conserves energy for the final ascent. If I had to do it again, I’d definitely consider setting up a high camp.
The most highly recommended are:
El Castillo High Camp
El Castillo high camp, situated just beyond the rock outcrop on the left (north) side of the Southwest ridge along the normal route, offers a strategic spot for climbers looking to break up the summit push. We considered this option during our climb, but it’s important to be mindful of the conditions before deciding to camp there.
The camp, while convenient, is vulnerable to windblasts from avalanches, especially if there’s fresh snow on the first dome above. This potential risk was enough for us to rethink using it as a base. Avalanches can hit with little warning, and El Castillo’s location, at the bottom of a bowl, makes it particularly exposed to this hazard. If you’re planning to camp here, it’s best to avoid doing so if there’s any chance of fresh snow accumulation. Safety should always come first, especially on a mountain as unpredictable as Chimborazo.
Moraine Camp
Moraine camp, located just 10 minutes from the Whymper refuge at an altitude of 5,050 meters, is a popular spot for those looking to set up a high camp on Chimborazo. The area is quite spacious, with a large flat field, which makes it easy to find a comfortable spot for your tent.
However, a key tip we picked up was to set up camp as far away from the moraines and the Thielman glacier as possible. The moraines can be unstable, and camping too close could put you at risk from rockfalls or other hazards. The glacier, too, presents potential dangers, especially as conditions change with the weather. Keeping a safe distance ensured we had a worry-free night before pushing toward the summit. It’s a solid option for anyone wanting to shorten the final ascent while being mindful of safety.
Note: As of November 2021, refuges no longer provide service or accommodation and all climbs will begin from a high camp at 5,200 meters.
Altitude and Safety Tips
Climbing Chimborazo exposes you to extreme altitude, which can be challenging for even the most experienced climbers. Altitude sickness is a serious risk and something you must be prepared to handle. While shortness of breath, a high pulse rate, and fatigue are normal at these elevations, more severe symptoms like chest pain, debilitating headaches, or coughing up fluid are red flags. If any of these occur, it’s essential to stop and prioritize your health over reaching the summit.
One thing we found helpful was taking Chlorophyll supplements, which some say can ease symptoms of altitude sickness. We started these a couple of weeks before our climb, and it seemed to make a difference for us. But no matter what precautions you take, the key is knowing your body and listening to it. Acclimatization is critical. We made sure to spend time at high altitudes before our attempt to let our bodies adjust, which really paid off during the climb.
For those who are prone to altitude sickness, bringing the right medications in your first aid kit is a must. If you know you’re sensitive to high altitudes, it’s best to reconsider taking on such a strenuous activity or consult with a doctor beforehand.
Chimborazo is not for beginners, and Ecuador requires that all climbers have accredited guides. These guides are trained to keep you safe, but ultimately, you know your body best. Climbing Chimborazo is an incredible achievement, but it’s crucial to think carefully and ensure you’re fully prepared for the physical demands and altitude risks. Safety should always come first.
Conclusion
While Chimborazo might not claim the title of the highest mountain in terms of elevation, its unique position on Earth gives it an extraordinary distinction: its summit is the farthest point from the center of the Earth. This fact alone filled us with a sense of wonder as we stood in its shadow, realizing we were closer to the stars than we would be even atop Everest. It’s a detail that makes the experience of climbing Chimborazo feel even more special.
Whether you’re taking one of the more accessible routes, which still require proper climbing techniques, or tackling a more technical ascent, Chimborazo offers something for every adventure seeker. For those with advanced climbing skills, the challenge is even more thrilling, demanding not only experience but also endurance.
If you’re craving an adrenaline-pumping experience and enjoy pushing your limits, adding Chimborazo to your itinerary is a must. The combination of stunning landscapes, physical challenge, and the mountain’s unique geographical significance makes it a destination worth the climb.
