North and South Illinizas 3-day climb

The Illiniza is an active volcano that, as a result of a big eruption 5000 years ago, formed the two peaks actually known as North and South Illinizas. 

North Illiniza can be climbed in only 1 day if you are well trained and have the enough acclimatization. If not, it would be better to do it in 2 days so that you can be well acclimatized before the Cotopaxi climb.

The ascent to North and South Illinizas is always better with the company of a certified mountain guide. That’s why I am here, telling you how amazing this climbing experience will be if you come with me!

For more details, here you have a complete itinerary of this 3-day climb to North and South Illinizas Peaks:

DAY 1: Quito – La Virgen – North Iliniza 

From anywhere of the country I suggest to be in El Chaupi Village a day before. As it is located 3.300 meters high it will help you to adapt your body, enabling the climb to the summit. The village counts on many hostels and lodges to overnight.

By the morning after breakfast at 7 am we leave in a 4X4 towards La Virgen or the Illinizas parking located at 3.950 meters. From La Virgen we will hike up to Nuevos Horizontes Hut (4.700m) for 2 or 3 hours. Once in the hut we can drink a coca tea and then, continue to the summit for other 2-3 more hours of basic rock climbing.

When we are finally in the summit we can enjoy the majestic surroundings views. Depending on weather and climate we may stay in the summit for 15 or 20 minutes before the descent. Hike down to the hut where we will dinner and sleep.

DAY 2: Nuevos Horizontes – Hike up to South Illiniza Foot

Our second day will be dedicated to resting. We will have breakfast at 8 am and then, we will take a short walk up to the route entrance of South Illiniza, reaching an altitude of 4.850 meters. After that, we will return down to the hut to lunch and prepare our climbing equipment. By the afternoon, we will dinner and overnight at 18 pm.

DAY 3: Nuevos Horizontes Hut – Iliniza Sur – Quito

We will get up at 2 am in order to have breakfast and start early the ascent to the South Illiniza. After 3 or 4 hours of climbing in a positive vertical drop of 50/55 degrees we will finally get to the summit. From there we can admire a amazing sunrise behind the famous Cotopaxi.

Return to the hut for a rest and then, continue hiking down to La Virgen where our transfer will be waiting to take us back to Quito.

What to bring with you:

Small backpack, hiking shoes (better if waterproof), thermal pants, waterproof pants, long sleeve thermal shirt, an extra long sleeve thermal shirt, one fleece or polar, a windbreaker jacket, gloves, a cap, a buff, sunscreen, sun glasses, a water bottle and… A lot of energy!

Prices vary depending on the group size. You can see them in the following list:

• 1 person: USD 590

• 2 people: USD 390 p/person

• 3-4 people: USD 360 p/person

• 5-6 people: USD 340 p/person

Are you going to miss this opportunity of climbing North and South Illinizas in an unique trip? I don’t think so. Get in touch with me to book your place and plan your unforgettable climbing experience among this volcano. I will be waiting anxiously!