Antisana Climbing

This volcano is ideal for every mountain climber, who demands a technically hard tour and likes to be off the beaten track. The Antisana lies a bit hidden in the eastern mountains and therefore cannot be seen very often. 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 Paramo. 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 Antisana is one of his favorites and well worth the effort.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Quito – El Tablon
You depart in the morning from Quito by jeep towards the eastern Cordillera to the Hacienda El Inga in El Tablon. In this small Indian settlement you load your gear on horsebacks and set off towards the valley of la Dormida. On your way you cross a huge Polylepis forest and hike through the typical grass landscape of the Paramo (Andean highland). After a 5 hours walk you set up your campsite beside a small creek at 3.600 m. -/L/D

Day 2: High Plateau of the Antisana
Today you continue your way up to reach the high plateau of the Antisana. On this hike you can enjoy the abundant flora and fauna of this region. After ca. 6-7 hours you will reach the high plain at the base of Volcano Antisana. Here you set up your base camp at 4.250 meters. B/L/D

Day 3: Peak of Antisana
After a small breakfast at midnight you will head to the glacier and start the ascent to the summit. If the conditions permit you will reach the summit (5.704 m) after ca. 6-7 hours and enjoy the spectacular view and the surrounding Andes with the snow capped summits of its huge volcanoes. As you are in the territory of the condors and with a bit of luck you may spot some them. In the afternoon you return to the base camp. B/L/D

Day 4: Laguna del Volcan (Lake of the Volcano)
You cross a pass at 4.000 meters and continue the trek to the next valley. You will pass rivers and wide Páramo landscapes. Finally you reach a volcanic lake at 3.500 meters and set up the camp at this beautiful place. If you like you can fish for trout and prepare them for dinner. B/L/D

Day 5: Papallacta - Quito
After breakfast you continue the trek upward to enjoy the breathtaking view which you will have from there if the weather permits. After 4 hours of hiking you will reach the small town Papallacta, where you will relax in the hot volcanic springs. In the afternoon you return to Quito. B/L/-

B= Breakfast; L= Lunch; D= Dinner

Prices per person 2011

• USD 835 – with minimum 2 people
• USD 1,495 – with one person

Included

• Transportation
• One qualified mountain guide for every 2 people (English/Spanish speaking, other languages upon request)
• 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.

Not included

• 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).