Rucu Pichincha East Ridge Summit Day from Quito
Climb Rucu Pichincha via the East Ridge with certified mountain guide David on a full-day technical ascent near Quito, Ecuador. Experience volcanic terrain, exposed scrambling, and beginner-friendly rock climbing on the way to the 4,696 m summit.
1 Day
All year
Intermediate
Beginner
Highlights
- Perfect introduction to technical mountaineering.
- Outstanding ridge climbing with spectacular views.
- Build confidence for bigger alpine objectives.
Description
Experience one of Ecuador’s most accessible alpine adventures on a guided climb of Rucu Pichincha via the East Ridge, a spectacular volcanic route located just outside Quito in the Pichincha Province of the Ecuadorian Andes.
Combining scenic hiking, exposed scrambling, and beginner-friendly rock climbing sections, this ascent offers an exciting introduction to technical mountaineering without requiring a long expedition.
Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Quito before heading to the Teleférico, where you’ll ride up to Cruz Loma at 3,945 meters.
From there, you’ll hike through the high-altitude volcanic landscape to reach the base of the East Ridge, where the real climbing begins. The route follows a narrow volcanic ridge with enjoyable scrambling and easy rock sections (UIAA III–IV), providing a taste of alpine climbing while surrounded by impressive Andean scenery.
After reaching the summit of Rucu Pichincha (4,696 m), you’ll take in panoramic views over Quito and some of Ecuador’s most famous volcanoes, including Cotopaxi, Antisana, and Cayambe. The descent follows the normal route before returning to Quito in the afternoon.
Perfect for hikers and aspiring mountaineers looking to progress beyond traditional trekking, the Rucu Pichincha East Ridge is an ideal first step toward more technical objectives in the Andes, such as South Iliniza, Antisana, or other high-altitude alpine climbs.
Join a certified mountain guide and discover the thrill of climbing an Ecuadorian volcano on this unforgettable full-day adventure.
Price includes
- Guiding fee
- Transport during the trip
- Permit and entrance fees
- Lifts tickets
Price details
- NOT INCLUDED
- Personal mountain clothing and footwear
- Helmet and harness
- Trekking poles
- Travel or rescue insurance
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Itinerary
Day 1: Rucu Pichincha East Ridge Full-Day Ascent
7:30 AM – Pick up from your hotel in Quito and drive to the Teleférico. 8:00 AM – Ride the Teleférico to Cruz Loma (3,945 m / 12,943 ft). 8:30 AM – Hike to the base of the East Ridge. 10:00 AM – Climb the East Ridge, enjoying easy scrambling and exposed volcanic terrain. 12:30 PM – Summit of Rucu Pichincha (4,696 m / 15,406 ft). 1:00 PM – Descend via the normal route. 4:00 PM – Return to Quito and drop you off at your hotel
Distance: 9–10 km (5.6–6.2 mi) Elevation Gain: 750 m (2,500 ft) Duration: 6 hours
Equipment you will need to bring
Harness
Water bottle
Backpack
Rent on site
Helmet
Poles
Sunglasses
About the guide
David
5.0
(6)
Mountain Guide
I am a member of the Ecuadorian Association of Mountain Guides (ASEGUIM) and of the International Association of Mountain Guides (IFMGA). Climbing has always been a passion in my life and becoming a mountain guide was my dream. Now both of them have become real as I work as a mountain guide.
I have climbed since I was a teenager. I was 15 years old when I realized the affinity I had for this profession. I have been in charge of mountains expeditions in Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina, succesffully reaching the summits. Although I am young (26 years old), I have a lot of experience. I have guided my clients on big walls with grade 7a + and mountains with TD difficulty.
I love to feel the excitement of being at great heights far from the ground. At the same time, I enjoy exploring hidden places and meeting new friends during these trips. All of these experiences have let me overcome my limits. One of my strengths is knowing the climbing techniques very well and having the ability to transmit to my clients these complex knowledge in a simple and fun way. I am a hardworker, an enthusiastic, positive and patient person.
I am a certified guide with the ability to advise my clients in a personalized way. My job is to adapt the routes and itineraries according to their abilities and level of experience. It is the best way to help them achieve their goals. As a mountain guide, the main objective before reaching the top of the mountain is to minimize the hazards to guarantee their safety. All the expeditions I guided have become enjoyable and unforgettable experiences for my clients.
Languages
English
Certificates
ASEGUIM | UIAGM | IFMGA
What people are saying about David
Erica
Juan Carlos was a terrific guide. He was safety-conscious, experienced, knowledgeable of the local crags, responsive to my physical and technical needs, and, on top of all that, a personable and fun individual. He pushed my limits beyond what I expected out of myself. I had a fantastic time, and highly recommend him as a guide
Ashley
David was amazing. He really catered to our skill level and showed us a beautiful multi-pitch. The approach was gorgeous and the climbing was so much fun. Book David for your next adventure; he really makes you feel safe and you get to have a lot of fun.
Victoria
David was a brilliant guide that was accomodating, encouraging, and very knowledgeable. We had a great time and won't hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking to do some mountaineering in South America!
Robert
Great experience climbing Cotopaxi. David was great with communication and making sure I made it up safely.
Jeff
Amazing trip and Davo, our guide was simply spectacular. Very knowledgeable and experienced, very helpful leading up to the trip by answering all of our questions. If I was to do this trip or any other mountaineering trip again, I would use Davo as my guide for sure.
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