Ecuador - Illiniza, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo

With it's jungles, islands and volcanoes, Ecuador offers a splendid variety of environments and terrain. The towering Andes Mountains, reaching heights of 17,000-20,000 feet, contrasted with the green valleys below, are both impressive and inviting. We will embark on an expedition to attempt several of those impressive peaks, Illiniza Norte (16,861 feet) and Cotopoxi (19,348 feet), the world's highest active volcano.

Start: Quito, Ecuador Travel Suggested: Late Winter Fitness: Challenging Must be in strong physical shape.

Meeting in Quito, Ecuador's bustling capital (9400 ft.), we'll spend a few days exploring the city, and hiking in the Pasachoa National Rainforest Preserve. We'll then travel south on the Pan American Highway to the tiny village of El Chaupi and the Hacienda San Jose. Situated at 11,000 feet, the hacienda provides a perfect place to acclimatize and
prepare for the climbing ahead. Expect a trip to the local market, delicious homemade breakfasts and great company provided by our host Rodrigo Peralvo. A day's hike to the Illiniza Refugio, followed by a night's rest at 15,000 ft., will lead to a rock scramble up Illiniza Norte. From the summit, we'll have spectacular views of snowy Illiniza Sur, and the verdant Central Andean Valley.

Following our ascent, we'll welcome a comfortable night's stay at the 16th century Hosteria La Cienega, a colonial-era mansion with meter-thick adobe walls, excellent local food, and spectacular gardens. The next morning we drive east into Cotopoxi National Park. Drier and more open country gives way to the glaciated cone of Cotopaxi, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. A short hike from the end of the road brings us to the Jose Ribas Refuge at the foot of the mountain. The climb involves glacier travel up moderately steep, non-technical terrain. From the summit at the crater rim, we'll take in expansive views of nine major peaks, the vast Amazon Basin and the 1000-foot deep volcanic crater.

Fully acclimatized, we'll head for a fast ascent of Chimborazo, Ecuador's highest peak at over 21,000 feet.

We'll celebrate our accomplishments by visiting Otovalo and its famous and colorful native Andean market. Back in Quito, we'll enjoy a final meal and local music before our trip home.

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