El Altar Volcano, an inactive stratovolcano, stands as one of the most impressive peaks in the Ecuadorian Andes. However, it also presents a formidable technical challenge for climbers due to its steep rock faces, active hanging glaciers, and unpredictable weather conditions. With nine summits, the highest - El Obispo - reaching 5.319 m / 17,450 ft, El Altar is renowned as the most remote and challenging climb in Ecuador. Its walls pose difficulties ranging from grade 5+ to 6 on the UIAA scale, while climbers must navigate glaciers with inclines between 70 and 80 degrees. 

Beyond its climbing challenges, El Altar Volcano offers a spectacular natural setting, encompassing lower peaks, lagoons, waterfalls, and unparalleled views. A minimum of four days is required to include El Altar Volcano with the Obispo summit in your itinerary. Approaching the volcano through the grasslands in wet conditions can be a significant challenge, as is the ascent to the summit itself. Definitely a trip of a lifetime - join us!

El Altar is a technical climb, excellent fitness is required as well as extensive mountaineering experience in remote alpine terrain.

Another very important point is proper acclimatization. To really enjoy the climb we recommend at least 4 days of preparation, including hikes in altitude and steadily increasing your sleeping altitude if possible.

Any questions? Reach out to our climbing experts on info@andeansummitadventure.com or  +593968959533 (WhatsApp or call).

For Rescue and Travel Insurance we recommend: Global Rescue.

- see program

- 1 certified bi-lingual guide (NATIONAL / ASEGUIM / IVBV - UIAGM - IFMGA) per max. 2 climbers

- assitant guide / camp assitant

- transportation in private vehicle

- mules for equipment transport from Boca Toma to Italian Camp

- accommodation (subject to change within the same category, based on availability) / camps

- park entrance fees & climbing permits

- meals as specified

- group equipment: ropes and other guiding gear

- meals (see program)

- personal technical equipment (harness, helmet, crampons, ice axe, carabiners, screws, slings etc.)

- sleeping bag + pad for camp, boots (including rubber boots) and other private equipment

- insurances (please make sure that you have an insurance covering risks of mountain climbing, we recommend Global Rescue)

- cost for program changes

- tips & any other expenses not explicitly mentioned

Cancellation Conditions:

- 60 or more days prior to departure: the total amount paid will be refunded, less an administrative fee equal to 10% of the total price.

- 59 - 30 days prior to departure: a cancellation fee equivalent to 50% of the total price shall be retained.

- 29 and less days prior to departure: the entire total price shall be forfeited.

Change Conditions:

Any change of the purchased itinerary or services asked by the client before and during the trip will depend on availability, requires mutual agreement and will be subject to cancellation penalties of existing services.

With full payment or partial payment of the tour the climber accepts the latest version of andean summit adventure's terms and conditions, which can be downloaded HERE.

Offer validity:

andean summit adventure reserves the right to adjust the prices, and other terms of this offer if there is a significant change in the relevant market conditions after the date of this offer.

IMPORTANT: Climbing El Altar - Obispo demands an advanced mountaineering profile and excellent acclimatization.

Day 1: Preparation and Journey to Riobamba

This initial day is dedicated to checking all technical equipment to ensure it is in optimal condition for the ascent to El Altar. With special attention, we prepare everything necessary for the camp. In the afternoon, we pack the equipment and supplies for the camp into our vehicle and embark on the journey to the city of Riobamba, close to El Altar. In the evening, we enjoy a delicious dinner and afterwards a good rest, recharging our energy for the adventure days that await us in Sangay National Park and the challenging ascent to Obispo, the highest peak of El Altar.

tech. data day 1:  ↑↓ 0 m / 0 ft | ↔ 0,0 km / 0 mi 

meals day 1: - / - / D

accommodation: single / double / triple room in Hotel Bambu with breakfast

Day 2: Approach to Italian Camp

We have an early breakfast and drive to the village of Quimiag. We continue to Bocatoma (3430 m / 11250 ft), where we leave the vehicle at a hacienda and begin the trek to the Italian Camp (4600 m / 15090 ft). Mules carry the equipment while we advance on foot. The 10,5 km / 6.5 miles hike through muddy Andean grasslands to the campsite takes between 6 and 8 hours. We enjoy the breathtaking views of the southern side of El Altar and the lagoons in the area, which are Laguna Mandur, Verde, Azul, and Estrellada. Upon reaching the Italian Camp, we set up the tents, prepare dinner, and organize the equipment for an early start towards El Obispo.

tech. data day 2: ↑ 1200 m / 3940 ft | → 10,5 km / 6.5 mi 

meals day 2: B / LB / D

accommodation in tents in Italian Camp

Day 3: El Altar's Obispo Summit

The big ascent. Shortly after midnight, we have breakfast and begin the ascent to the Obispo. The route ascends steep glaciers, rocky walls, and requires excellent mixed climbing and high mountain skills. Securing options are sometimes limited. The duration to reach the summit of El Altar - Obispo (5.319 m / 17,450 ft) depends on the conditions of snow, ice, and rock, and the pace of the rope teams. The descent is also demanding with multiple rappels. We will arrive back at the Italian Camp in the afternoon / evening of Day 3.

tech. data day 3: ↑↓ 750 m / 2460 ft | ↔ 7,0 km / 4.3 mi

meals day 3: B / LB / D

accommodation in tents in Italian Camp

Day 4: Hike Out to Bocatoma and Return to Quito

After two demanding days, we embark on the descent to Bocatoma and the return to Quito. We have breakfast at the campsite, pack up, and begin the trek back to the vehicles. Again, mules assist us with the heavy load. The descent usually takes between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the weather and the trail. In Bocatoma, we have lunch before embarking on the final journey to Quito.

tech. data day 4:  ↓ 1200 m / 3940 ft | → 10,5 km / 6.5 mi 

meals day 4: B / L / -