Chimborazo Volcano Tour from Quito – Closest Point to the Sun

We start early in the morning. We leave from your Hotel/accommodation to start with the tour

The adventure begins! Our tour to Chimborazo from Quito takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to observe the magical landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. The main entrance to Chimborazo National Park is located in the Casahuala Control Area. We will arrive at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the main entrance. Located at an altitude of 4,386 meters (14,389 feet), this access point is the most used by visitors and has an interpretation center where you can obtain information about the park's flora, fauna, and geology.

After a 30-minute drive into the reserve, our tour will take us to the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, the first refuge in the Chimborazo Wildlife Production Reserve, located at an altitude of 4,850 meters above sea level. It's a key stop for mountaineers and tourists visiting the Chimborazo Volcano Tour, as our ascent begins here.

Refugio Hermanos Carrel is a mountain refuge perched at approximately 4,845 m (15,892 ft) on the slopes of Chimborazo Volcano, inside the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, just above its upper parking area .

Cóndor Cocha Lagoon is a small glacial lake located at 5,100 meters (16,732 ft) above sea level on the slopes of Chimborazo Volcano, within the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve. Surrounded by stunning high-Andean landscapes, it offers breathtaking views and a rare opportunity to experience extreme altitude without technical climbing.

Its name means “Condor Lagoon” in Kichwa, inspired by the occasional sightings of the majestic Andean condor. Though small, the lagoon is a symbolic destination for trekkers and nature lovers.

The trail to Cóndor Cocha begins at the Hermanos Carrel Refuge (~4,845 m), continues to the Whymper Refuge (~5,000 m), and then extends about 500 meters further uphill to the lagoon. The hike is moderately challenging due to the altitude but offers unmatched panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding páramo.

After your high-altitude adventure, enjoy a comforting lunch at a local Ecuadorian restaurant near the Chimborazo Reserve. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and showcase the rich culinary traditions of the Andean highlands. ( No included)

After enjoying a traditional Ecuadorian lunch near the Chimborazo Reserve, we begin our journey back to Quito. Sit back and relax as we drive through scenic Andean landscapes, passing through highland villages and valleys along the way. Arrival in Quito is expected in the evening, concluding an unforgettable day in the shadow of Ecuador’s highest peak.