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This is the fifth highest mountain in Ecuador. Undoubtedly it involves the most technical climbs and has one of the longest approaches. El Altar needs no translations into English and its various peaks all bear church related names. The highest is El Obispo (the bishop) 5319 m; the second peak is El Canonigo (the canon) 5260 m, El Fraile Grande (the great friar); La Monja Grande (the great nun); La Monja Chica (the little nun); el Tabernaculo (the tabernacle). All of these peaks are magnificent and a paradise for climbers.
The Itinerary
Day 1:
Drive south to Penipe via Riobamba where the hacienda Releche is situated nearby. First camp at 3100 m. (BL, D)
Day 2:
The trek starts along the muddy paths of Collanes valley, located right in front of the open mouth of the volcano. Camp at 3500 m. (B, BL, D)
Day 3:
Continue trekking to the inside of the crater to observe the yellow–water lagoon inside the crater. Enjoy the spectacular view of the hanging glaciers and the impressive rocky peaks. Camp at Collanes. (B, BL, D)
Day 4:
Leisurely morning followed by a walk back to Hacienda Releche. Drive back to Quito. (B, BL)
General Information
Rated: Easy – moderate
| Tour Tariff - Private Departures | |||||
| N° of Participants | 2 | 3 | 4 | ||
| USD | $ 750 | $ 560 | $ 475 | ||
| EUR | € 623 | € 465 | € 394 | ||
| GBP | £ 420 | £ 314 | £ 266 | ||
Included:
All meals during the excursion, professional mountain guide, camping equipment, cook, and mules to carry the weight, entrances to parks & reserves, private transportation.
Not included:
Personal camping equipment, meals in towns, personal expenses, tips.