On Deck - Ecuador Mountaineering Trip

In April of this year I’ll be heading to the Ecuadorian Andes to climb, and it will be my first time in both Ecuador and South America. I’ll be joining an outfit in hopes to summit Cayambe, Ecuador’s third-highest peak standing at 18,996 feet tall, or 5,790 meters. It’s a short, one-week trip, but plenty of time to get a feel for Ecuador and my first taste of high-altitude mountaineering. The guide company offers an extension to summit Chimborazo and Cotopaxi, the first and second tallest peaks in Ecuador respectively, but unfortunately I’ve got to make PTO friendly decisions.

Cayambe

While I have some experience above 14,000 feet, it certainly isn’t extensive. I’ve climbed Mt. Shasta (14,180,) and hiked six “fourteneers” so far, so at almost 19,000’ I’ll be in completely uncharted territory. Usually I would opt for a surf trip, such as my recent one to Guatemala, to relax and unwind, this is step one of a much larger goal that I’ll reveal in time. A goal that I think is only slightly realistic, but I won’t know until I try. It’s all part of the process!

I’m looking forward to the expedition and documenting it as best as possible, cheers!