Vicuña Trek

3 Days

Trekking through the Abras Pungo valley to Chimborazo and visiting Carihuairazo is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here’s a description of what you can expect to see and experience along the way:

The Abras Pungo valley is located in the Andean highlands of Ecuador, near the city of Riobamba. The valley is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the region, with towering peaks, glaciers, and sweeping vistas that stretch for miles. As you trek through the valley, you’ll pass through a range of ecosystems, from alpine grasslands to high altitude wetlands and cloud forests.

One of the highlights of the trek is a visit to Carihuairazo, a dormant volcano located just north of Chimborazo. Carihuairazo is known for its distinctive twin peaks and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you hike towards the summit, you’ll pass through a variety of terrain, including rocky outcroppings, glacial valleys, and high-altitude wetlands. Along the way, you may encounter various wildlife, including Andean foxes, vicuñas, and eagles.

Once you reach the summit of Carihuairazo, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Andean highlands, including Chimborazo, the highest mountain in Ecuador. From here, you’ll descend back down to the Abras Pungo valley and continue trekking towards Chimborazo.

As you approach Chimborazo, you’ll notice the landscape changing once again, as you pass through high altitude wetlands and enter the mountain’s foothills. The scenery here is stunning, with colorful wildflowers, pristine lakes, and rugged rock formations that provide habitat for a variety of wildlife

Overview

trekking through the Abras Pungo valley to Chimborazo and visiting Carihuairazo offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the Andean highlands. It’s a challenging and rewarding trek that is sure to leave you with lasting memories of this incredible region of Ecuador.

Itinerary

Start trekking from 4 Esquinas, following the Hieleros Trail towards the Casa Condor Lodge.
The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding Andean landscape, including snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude wetlands.
After around 5-6 hours of hiking, arrive at the Casa Condor Lodge and spend the night there.

Day 2 :
Day 2

Continue trekking from Casa Condor Lodge towards the Carrel Refuge, located on the slopes of Chimborazo.
The trail passes through a variety of terrain, including rocky outcroppings and high-altitude wetlands, and offers breathtaking views of Chimborazo and the surrounding landscape.
After around 6-7 hours of hiking, arrive at the Carrel Refuge and spend the night there.

Day 3 :
Day 3

Depart early in the morning from the Carrel Refuge and start hiking towards the non-technical summit of Carihuairazo, called Josefina.
The trail to Josefina summit is challenging, but does not require technical climbing skills. You'll pass through a variety of terrain, including rocky ridges and snowfields, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
After around 6-7 hours of hiking, reach the summit of Josefina and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views.
Descend back down to the Carrel Refuge and end the trek

$425 Per Person

What´s Included

  • Transportation From and to Riobamba
  • Camping and climbing gear
  • All meals
  • Carrying mules
  • National park permits
  • Local certified Guides

What´s not included

  • Travel insurance and other emergencies
  • Liquors, beeers and bootled beverages
  • Tips

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Vicuña Trek