Exploring the Majesty of Chimborazo: A Full-Day Tour from Quito

If you’re looking to see one of Ecuador’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Full Day Chimborazo Volcano Tour offers an incredible journey. For $400 per person, this roughly 12-hour adventure takes you from Quito into the heart of the Andes to stand at the foot of Chimborazo, the highest volcano in Ecuador and the highest point on Earth measured from Earth’s center.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular scenery—think towering volcanoes, lush valleys, and unique wildlife—with the adventure of walking up to refuges and lagoons at high altitude. The second highlight is the personalized attention from guides like Don Aurelio, who many reviews praise for their attentiveness and professionalism.

One thing to keep in mind is the early start time—a 6:00 am departure—so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind an early wake-up and are prepared for a full day of exploration. This tour is perfect if you’re eager to see Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and enjoy a mix of light hiking and sightseeing, especially if you’re a fan of mountain scenery and wildlife.

Key Points

Spectacular Views: Witness some of the most iconic volcanoes in Ecuador, including Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, and of course, Chimborazo itself.

High-Altitude Experience: Walk to refuges and lagoons at over 5,000 meters, perfect for those who enjoy challenging hikes and stunning panoramas.

Wildlife and Flora: Spot species such as the Vicuña and enjoy the diverse plant life that adorns the high-altitude landscapes.

Personalized Service: The tour is private, with guides like Don Aurelio earning praise for their attentiveness and expertise.

Convenient Pickup: Includes hotel pickup from Quito’s tourist zones—La Mariscal, La Carolina, and the historic center—making the day hassle-free.

Value for Price: Entrance to Chimborazo National Park and transportation are included, offering a comprehensive experience at a reasonable cost given the full-day adventure.

An In-Depth Look at the Chimborazo Tour

While in Quito, here are other experiences we've covered

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

Your day begins early—around 6:00 am—when a private vehicle will pick you up from your hotel in Quito. This allows you to beat the traffic and maximize your time at Chimborazo. As you leave the city behind, you’ll travel along the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes, a striking corridor lined with Ecuador’s most imposing peaks, including Ilinizas Norte and Sur, Cotopaxi, Tungurahua, and Carihuairazo.

This scenic drive alone is worth the trip, giving you ample opportunity to marvel at Ecuador’s geological diversity. After about four hours, you’ll arrive at the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, where the real adventure begins.

Visiting the First Refuge and Condorcocha Lagoon

The tour includes a visit to the first refuge of Chimborazo, situated at approximately 4,800 meters, providing a crucial chance to acclimatize and prepare for higher elevations. Many travelers find this part impressive because of the panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding mountains.

From here, you’ll walk about an hour to reach the Condorcocha Lagoon at roughly 5,100 meters. This walk is a highlight, giving you a closer look at the flora and fauna, notably the Vicuña, a relative of the llama that graze freely in the area. One reviewer noted, “We found a wealth of flora and fauna such as the Vicuña,” emphasizing how wildlife sightings add to the charm.

The Refuge Hike and High-Altitude Walks

For the more adventurous, the tour includes a two-hour hike from the first shelter to the second refuge at 5,100 meters, passing through a valley with a temporary lagoon called Micacocha. While demanding due to the altitude and cold, many find this walk rewarding, offering unrivaled views of the crater and surrounding peaks. The guide’s advice to bring winter clothing and snow gear is wise—conditions can be chilly, and snow may be present.

Lunch and Return

After the exploration, you’ll head toward Ambato for a local lunch—not included in the tour price—and then return to Quito. The journey back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights, with a stop at a restaurant to rest and recharge before concluding the adventure.

While you're exploring Quito, here are other experiences we've looked into

Additional Stops and Flexibility

Depending on your base in Ecuador—Riobamba, Ambato, or Latacunga—the tour can be tailored to include pickup and drop-off at your hotel, making it flexible for different travelers.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews show a consistent pattern of praise: “Excellent experience,” “The guide was very attentive and punctual,” and “The places to visit are interesting, and the safety provided by the guide is reassuring.” Many highlight the stunning scenery and the professionalism of the guides, especially Don Aurelio, who is described as jovial and engaging.

One traveler exclaimed, “Magnificent hot springs with a beautiful view,” which hints at the broader appeal of the region, even if hot springs are not part of this specific tour. The positive feedback about the safety, organization, and the highlight of breathtaking views makes it clear that this tour delivers on expectations.

The Value of the Experience

For $400 per person, this tour offers a full day of sightseeing, including private transportation, park entrance fees, and expert guiding. While the price might seem steep, it encompasses a well-organized, high-quality experience at a significant altitude with stunning scenery. The fact that many travelers book 20 days in advance indicates high demand, and the consistent five-star reviews suggest it’s a reliable choice.

Considerations for Travelers

The early start and high-altitude hikes mean this tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and chilly conditions. Also, since lunch is not included, budgeting extra for a meal is wise. Travelers should be prepared physically for the demanding hikes and cold weather, especially if snow is present.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Ecuador’s most iconic volcanoes, enjoy mountain landscapes, and are comfortable with high-altitude walks, this tour is ideal. Nature lovers, hikers, and those wanting to experience Ecuador’s diverse terrain will find this a memorable experience. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a private, guided experience to maximize safety and learn about the region from knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

This Full Day Chimborazo Volcano Tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From the striking views of the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the chance to walk near glaciers and lagoons at over 5,000 meters, it’s a chance to see one of Ecuador’s most impressive landmarks.

Although demanding, the experience is well worth it for those who want to go beyond typical sightseeing and embrace the raw beauty of the Andes. Many travelers praise the professionalism of guides like Don Aurelio, which elevates the experience from merely scenic to genuinely enriching.

If you’re looking for a full-day escape into Ecuador’s mountainous heart, with the added benefit of wildlife sightings and the thrill of high-altitude hikes, this tour is a top choice. It’s best for active, curious travelers ready for an early start and a full day of exploration—promising memories of awe-inspiring views and a deep appreciation for Ecuador’s volcanic landscape.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, to make the most of the day and avoid afternoon weather changes.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there will be a stop in Ambato for you to enjoy a local meal.

How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike from the first refuge to the second refuge is about two hours and can be demanding due to the altitude and cold, so bring winter clothing and snow gear.

Can I be dropped off at my hotel?
Yes, if you’re staying in Riobamba, Ambato, or Latacunga, you can be picked up and dropped off at your hotel for added convenience.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The stunning views of Chimborazo and surrounding volcanoes, along with the chance to walk at over 5,000 meters—an experience many travelers find unforgettable.

Is this tour suitable for children or family groups?
While most travelers can participate, the high-altitude hikes and early start might be challenging for very young children or those with health concerns.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.