Chimborazo volcano adventure

Hike along historic trade routes in the shadow of Mount Chimborazo, an extinct volcano dominating an Andean landscape of sweeping plains, rural settlements and grazing llamas.

Standing tallest of all within the corridor of soaring peaks known as the Avenue of the Volcanoes, the extinct volcano of Chimborazo is Ecuador's highest mountain. Its snow-capped form looms up out of sweeping Andean grassland, dominating the skyline and dwarfing the small farmsteads and herds of grazing llama that lie in its shadow.

We can arrange a 3-day adventure hiking in this remote and rugged terrain, enjoying the peace and tranquillity of life in the Andes. The trip begins with a scenic approach from Patate, following a llama trail to a spectacular viewpoint over the volcano.

The next day, you'll wake in a cosy highland lodge to the sight of Chimborazo rising up to a height of over 6,000m, beckoning you to get out and explore. Today's walk will follow a historically important trade route, the Camino Real or Royal Road, down the volcano's southern flank and across a barren desert of ancient volcanic debris to a cluster of rustic settlements and farms.

On the final day, there's a guided visit to Ecuador's most important Inca ruin at Ingapirca before continuing on to the graceful city of Cuenca.

Activity Rating: moderate