ADVENTURE

Antisana Climbing 5.704 m - 5 Day Tour



This volcano is ideal for every mountain climber, who demands a technically difficult tour and likes to be off the beaten track. Volcano Antisana lies a bit hidden in the east Ecuadorian mountains and therefore is not very easy to spot. To reach any one of Antisana's four peaks climbers must make a 2-day trip across lava and mudflows and up through cloud forest and finally over great stretches of Páramo. Once on the peak, one has a technical, glaciated climb ahead. As a result, few intrepid souls can claim Antisana's summits. But for those who do, the panoramic views will be breathtaking. Ask any experienced Ecuadorian climber, and he will say that the Antisana volcano is one of his favorites and well worth the effort.

Itinerary:
Day 01: Quito - Hacienda el Inga
Departure in the morning from Quito by jeep to the Hacienda El Inga in El Tablon. In this small Indian settlement we load our gear on horsebacks and set off towards the valley of La Dormida. We cross a huge Polylepis forest. After a 5 hour walk we set up our campsite by the river at 3.600 m. -/L/D

Day 02: High Plateau of Antisana
We continue our way up to reach the high plateau of the Antisana. On this hike you will enjoy the abundant flora and fauna of this region. After 6-7 hours we will set up our camp at 4.250 meters. From this point on we will make our different excursions on the mountain. B/L/D

Day 03: Peak of Antisana
Today we will ascend the main peak of Antisana (5.704 m). As we are in their territory, we may spot some condors gazing at us. In the afternoon we return to the camp. B/L/D

Day 04: Laguna del Volcan (Lake of the Volcano)
We cross a pass at 4.000 meters and continue our trek to the next valley. We will pass rivers and lovely Páramo landscapes. Finally we reach a volcanic lake at 3.500 meters and set up our camp at this beautiful site. If you like you can fish for trout and prepare them for dinner. B/L/D

Day 05: Papallacta
After breakfast we continue our trek upward to enjoy the breathtaking view we will have from there. After 4 hours of hiking we will reach Papallacta, where we will relax in the natural hot volcanic springs. Return journey to Quito. While having a nice cocktail at the hotel, we can recall our great adventure. B/L/-

B= breakfast; L= Lunch; D= Dinner



Prices 2007:
From USD 745.- per person
Minimum 2 People.



Included in the price:
Transportation, one mountain guide for every 2 people (English/Spanish speaking), oxygen, first aid kit, mountain boots, crampons, harness, rope, ice axe, ice screws, National park entrance fee, mules, camping equipment such as 2 person tents, mattresses, cooking equipment, cook, meals according to the program (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner). The guides are equipped with cell phones for emergencies.

Not included in the price:
Personal equipment, sleeping bag, tips, travel insurance, mountain equipment: gaiters, warm and waterproof clothing, sunglasses, headlamp with batteries, gloves.

What to bring with you:
Sleeping bag, sun glasses, sun block, rain wear, warm clothes, torch, hat, trekking shoes, warm clothing, canteen, camera and film (100 ASA).