El Altar Volcano 2-day climbing trip in Ecuador

Join me in this challenging 3-day climbing tour to El Altar (5320 m) in Ecuador! This extinct volcano is the fifth highest mountain in the Ecuadorian Andes.

Climbing its summit involves some technical climbing. So, if you are an experienced mountaineer, join me and let’s spend 3 great days! We will enjoy a spectacular view of the crater below. Also, the sights of Chimborazo an Sangay in the background.

El Altar lies in the western side of the Sangay National Park, 170 km south of Quito. The peak of this volcano was higher than Chimborazo (6268 m), but after an eruption all that remains is a long ridge with nine summits around a huge crater lake.

Each of the nine individual peaks have a different name. The highest one is Obispo (5320 m), at the southern end of the crater. And we will get to its summit on the second day!

Its name in quechua language is Capac Urcu, meaning the almighty or magnificent mountain. Spaniards named it El Altar because it looked like four friars and two nuns listening to a bishop around an altar.

Climbing this beautiful mountain, requires a certain degree of technical ability. Even more, it is one of the hardest climbs in Ecuador.

We will meet in the city of Riobamba, where we will start our trip. You can check the detailed itinerary below this text.

Contact me if you want to join me in this exciting climb to El Altar! I will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this trip. You can also check my Chimborazo guided ascent program!