An Epic Adventure the 2 Day
Tungurahua Volcano Hike
Embark on an exhilarating 2-day trek to the summit of Volcán Tungurahua, one of Ecuador’s most iconic active volcanoes. Journey through lush cloud forests, rugged high-altitude trails, and volcanic landscapes as you ascend towards breathtaking panoramic views. Spend the night at the Refugio, where the star-filled Andean sky adds to the magic of the experience. On summit day, push for the top at 5,023 meters (16,480 feet), where, if conditions allow, you’ll stand above the clouds, gazing over the dramatic peaks of the Ecuadorian Andes.
PRICE:
1 Hiker (Private): $240 USD per person
2 Hikers (Private): $130 USD per person
3+ Hikers or Group Trips: $90 USD per person
Experience the Magic of Tungurahua
on a One-Day Adventure!
Your journey begins in Baños before dawn as we drive to the Pondoa trailhead, located at 10,826 feet (3,300 meters). After a quick briefing and a light breakfast, we’ll begin our ascent through dense Andean cloud forests, gradually transitioning into paramo grasslands as we climb higher up the slopes of Tungurahua.
The trail steadily gains elevation as we push towards the Tungurahua Refuge at 12,959 feet (3,950 meters). This section takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, offering stunning views of Baños, the Pastaza Valley, and distant peaks like Chimborazo and Carihuairazo. At the refuge, we’ll take a well-deserved break, refueling with snacks and preparing for the more challenging final ascent.
Leaving the refuge behind, we tackle Tungurahua’s steep volcanic slopes, navigating loose rock and high-altitude terrain as we climb toward the summit at 16,480 feet (5,023 meters). This is the most demanding section of the trek, requiring determination and steady pacing. Reaching the top, you’ll stand at the edge of Tungurahua’s crater, with breathtaking views of the Ecuadorian Andes stretching in every direction. If conditions allow, you may even see traces of volcanic steam rising from the depths below.
After celebrating our summit achievement and taking in the unparalleled scenery, we begin our descent back to Pondoa, retracing our steps past the refuge. The return journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, offering time to appreciate the changing landscapes as we descend into the lush lowlands.
Back at the trailhead, a well-earned meal awaits before we drive back to Baños, arriving in the late afternoon—just in time to relax in the town’s famous thermal baths or enjoy a celebratory meal.
Quick Details:
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Elevation Gain: 5,654 feet (1,723 meters)
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Trailhead Elevation: 10,826 feet (3,300 meters)
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Summit Elevation: 16,480 feet (5,023 meters)
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Tungurahua Refuge Elevation: 12,959 feet (3,950 meters)
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Difficulty: Challenging – for experienced hikers
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Hiking Distance: 10 miles (16 km) round trip
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Hiking Time: 8–12 hours total
Join us for this incredible full-day adventure, summiting one of Ecuador’s most iconic volcanoes! Experience the thrill of climbing an active peak and witness the raw beauty of the high Andes like never before.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
We’re here to make this the ultimate adventure for you. Consider us your adventure buddies—ready to guide, inspire, and share every step of the journey. Are you ready to dive in?
