Premium mountaineering expeditions in the Ecuadorian Andes
Designed for international travelers seeking high-altitude objectives with professional mountain guides, private logistics, carefully selected haciendas and 4-star hotels, and a structured acclimatization process.
Why Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the most unique high-altitude destinations in the world. In just a few hours of travel, landscapes shift dramatically from colonial cities to Andean highlands, active volcanoes, glacier-covered summits and lush valleys shaped by centuries of culture and tradition.
The Ecuadorian Andes offer an exceptional combination of accessibility and altitude. Peaks above 5,000 and 6,000 meters can be reached within relatively short distances from Quito, allowing for efficient yet well-structured expeditions that would require significantly more time in other regions of the world.
Beyond the mountains, Ecuador is defined by its people and culture. Travelers experience a rich blend of indigenous heritage and modern Andean life, reflected in local markets, traditional cuisine and the hospitality found in haciendas and small mountain communities.
Each expedition is not only a physical objective, but an immersion into a country where nature, culture and altitude coexist in a way that is rarely found elsewhere.
Nanuk Adventures
Nanuk Adventures offers premium, safety-first mountain expeditions in Ecuador. Each program combines a progressive acclimatization strategy, certified guiding, private transportation, technical preparation, and lodging in selected haciendas or 4-star hotels whenever mountain logistics allow.
Cotopaxi Signature Expedition
Dificulty:
3 summits in 8 days – progressive acclimatization, glacier skills and the classic Ecuadorian volcano objective.
Premium Price
USD 2,600 - 2,900 per person
Chimborazo Elite Expedition
Dificulty:
4 summits in 11 days – a complete high-altitude journey to the closest point to the sun.
Premium Price
USD 3,200 - 3,800 per person
Antisana Technical Expedition
Dificulty:
4 summits in 9 days – technical glacier objective, low crowds and wild Andean landscapes.
Premium Price
USD 2,800 - 3,300 per person
Cayambe Glacier Expedition
Dificulty:
3 summits in 8 days – glacier training and summit on the equator line. A beautiful paradise.
Premium Price
USD 2,500 - 2,900 per person
Explorer Andes Experience
Dificulty:
5 days – culture, acclimatization and premium soft adventure. An introductory premium program .
Premium Price
USD 1,200 - 1,800 per person
Express Ascent
Series
Dificulty:
2–4 days – high-efficiency ascents for time-constrained travelers. Designed for experienced and well-acclimatized clients.
Premium Price
USD 1,200 - 1,800 per person
Our tours are designed to provide an
Exciting Experience
Cotopaxi Signature Expedition
Dificulty:
3 summits in 8 days – progressive acclimatization, glacier skills and the classic Ecuadorian volcano objective.
A premium high-altitude expedition designed to guide clients progressively toward the summit of Cotopaxi. The program blends acclimatization hikes, a night at altitude, technical preparation on glacier terrain and selected lodging in Quito and the Andean highlands.
At a Glance
Duration | 8 days / 7 nights |
Main Objective | Cotopaxi – 5,897 m |
Acclimatization Peaks | Fuya Fuya, Corazon, Iliniza Norte |
Recommended Level | Intermediate / Advanced fitness |
Guide Ratio | 1:2 on glacier terrain |
Technical Gear | Mandatory in glacier |
Lodging | 4-star hotel in Quito, premium hacienda or mountain lodge, mountain refuge |
Premium Price | USD 2,600 – 2,900 per person |
Premium Lodging Experience
- 4-star hotel in Quito on arrival and final night if required by itinerary.
- Premium hacienda or Andean lodge in the Cotopaxi / Ilinizas corridor.
- Mountain refuge for summit logistics and high-altitude adaptation.
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Location | Purpose |
1 | Arrival in Quito | Reception, hotel check-in, briefing and equipment review |
2 | Fuya Fuya – 4,290 m | Initial acclimatization and controlled hiking rhythm |
3 | Corazon – approx. 4,786 m | Endurance development and altitude progression |
4 | Refugio Nuevos Horizontes | Sleep at altitude and prepare for higher objective |
5 | Iliniza Norte – 5,126 m | Advanced acclimatization above 5,000 m |
6 | Cotopaxi Refuge and glacier practice | Safety briefing, crampons, rope travel and summit preparation |
7 | Cotopaxi summit attempt – 5,897 m | Night ascent, glacier travel and controlled descent |
8 | Return to Quito | Transfer, closing briefing and departure support |
What Is Included
- Certified mountain guides ASEGUIM / UIAGM according to route requirements.
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled mountain logistics.
- Selected 4-star hotels and premium haciendas where available; mountain refuges or high camps when required for summit strategy.
- Selected meals during the program, adapted to mountain activity and itinerary timing.
- Technical group equipment required for glacier or high-mountain routes, according to each expedition.
- Park entrance permits and route coordination.
- Pre-expedition technical briefing, gear check and ongoing support during the program.
Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless expressly agreed.
- Mountain rescue, medical, travel or evacuation insurance.
- Personal clothing and personal mountain gear not expressly listed as included.
- Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages and additional activities not scheduled.
- Costs caused by weather, route closure, illness, early exit or force majeure.
Ideal For
International travelers with strong fitness who want a complete and responsible Cotopaxi experience rather than a short two-day attempt.
Strategic Differentiator
Comparable in structure to international expedition products, but with local expertise, flexible logistics and a stronger price-value relationship.
Chimborazo Elite Expedition
Dificulty:
4 summits in 11 days – a complete high-altitude journey to the closest point to the sun.
A full premium expedition built around progressive acclimatization and strategic recovery before attempting Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest mountain. The itinerary combines multiple acclimatization objectives, a glacier summit on Cayambe, a recovery stay in Baños and final preparation for Chimborazo.
At a Glance
Duration | 11-12 days / 10-11 nights |
Main Objective | Chimborazo – 6,263 m |
Acclimatization Peaks | Fuya Fuya, Corazon, Iliniza Norte, Cayambe |
Recommended Level | Intermediate / Advanced |
Guide Ratio | 1:2 on glacier terrain |
Technical Gear | Mandatory in glacier |
Lodging | 4-star hotel, selected haciendas, boutique hotel in Baños, mountain refuge or high camp |
Premium Price | USD 3,200 – 3,800 per person |
Premium Lodging Experience
- 4-star hotel in Quito for arrival, briefing and recovery logistics.
- Premium haciendas or Andean lodges in the Cotopaxi / Cayambe corridor.
- Boutique hotel in Baños for strategic rest and recovery.
- Mountain refuge or high camp for Chimborazo summit strategy.
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Location | Purpose |
1 | Arrival in Quito | Reception, rest and technical briefing |
2 | Fuya Fuya – 4,290 m | Initial acclimatization |
3 | Corazon – approx. 4,786 m | Endurance and altitude progression |
4 | Refugio Nuevos Horizontes | Sleep at altitude |
5 | Iliniza Norte – 5,126 m | Strong acclimatization above 5,000 m |
6 | Transfer to Cayambe region | Regional transfer and rest |
7 | Cayambe summit – 5,790 m | Intermediate glacier summit and technical consolidation |
8 | Baños | Recovery, mobility and lower-altitude rest |
9 | Chimborazo high camp / refuge | Final preparation and summit briefing |
10 | Rest or active acclimatization at altitude | Hydration, gear check and risk assessment |
11 | Chimborazo summit attempt – 6,263 m | Final ascent and descent |
12 | Return to Quito | Transfer and expedition closing, if itinerary uses 12-day format |
What Is Included
- Certified mountain guides ASEGUIM / UIAGM according to route requirements.
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled mountain logistics.
- Selected 4-star hotels and premium haciendas where available; mountain refuges or high camps when required for summit strategy.
- Selected meals during the program, adapted to mountain activity and itinerary timing.
- Technical group equipment required for glacier or high-mountain routes, according to each expedition.
- Park entrance permits and route coordination.
- Pre-expedition technical briefing, gear check and ongoing support during the program.
Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless expressly agreed.
- Mountain rescue, medical, travel or evacuation insurance.
- Personal clothing and personal mountain gear not expressly listed as included.
- Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages and additional activities not scheduled.
- Costs caused by weather, route closure, illness, early exit or force majeure.
Ideal For
Clients who want the most complete Ecuador volcano progression and are willing to invest in better acclimatization, comfort and summit preparation.
Strategic Differentiator
This is Nanuk’s flagship premium program: a serious expedition with a stronger acclimatization profile than short commercial ascents.
Antisana Technical Expedition
Dificulty:
4 summits in 9 days – technical glacier objective, low crowds and wild Andean landscapes.
A more technical expedition for climbers seeking a less commercial objective. Antisana offers a demanding glacier environment, remarkable Andean scenery and a stronger sense of remoteness, supported by a progressive acclimatization sequence and premium logistics.
At a Glance
Duration | 9 days / 8 nights |
Main Objective | Antisana – 5,758 m |
Acclimatization Peaks | Rucu Pichincha, Ruminahui, Corazon, Cayambe |
Recommended Level | Intermediate / Advanced with solid fitness |
Guide Ratio | 1:2 on glacier terrain |
Technical Gear | Mandatory in glacier |
Lodging Standard | 4-star hotel in Quito, premium hacienda or lodge, mountain refuge / field logistics |
Premium Price | USD 2,800 – 3,300 per person |
Premium Lodging Experience
- 4-star hotel in Quito for arrival, briefing and final recovery.
- Premium hacienda or Andean lodge near acclimatization routes.
- Mountain refuge or field-based lodging where required by Antisana logistics.
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Location | Purpose |
1 | Arrival in Quito | Reception, rest, briefing and equipment check |
2 | Rucu Pichincha – approx. 4,698 m | First altitude exposure close to Quito |
3 | Ruminahui Norte – approx. 4,706 m | Movement on varied volcanic terrain and physical conditioning |
4 | Corazon – approx. 4,790 m | Endurance and acclimatization consolidation |
5 | Active rest day | Recovery, hydration and technical briefing |
6 | Cayambe glacier practice / summit strategy | Glacier skills, crampons, piolet and rope travel |
7 | Antisana approach and camp | Route briefing and final preparation |
8 | Antisana summit attempt – 5,758 m | Technical glacier ascent and descent |
9 | Return to Quito | Transfer and expedition closing |
What Is Included
- Certified mountain guides ASEGUIM / UIAGM according to route requirements.
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled mountain logistics.
- Selected 4-star hotels and premium haciendas where available; mountain refuges or high camps when required for summit strategy.
- Selected meals during the program, adapted to mountain activity and itinerary timing.
- Technical group equipment required for glacier or high-mountain routes, according to each expedition.
- Park entrance permits and route coordination.
- Pre-expedition technical briefing, gear check and ongoing support during the program.
Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless expressly agreed.
- Mountain rescue, medical, travel or evacuation insurance.
- Personal clothing and personal mountain gear not expressly listed as included.
- Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages and additional activities not scheduled.
- Costs caused by weather, route closure, illness, early exit or force majeure.
Ideal For
Fit travelers or climbers who prefer a technical, less crowded and more adventurous high-mountain objective.
Strategic Differentiator
Antisana gives Nanuk a differentiated product: more exclusive, more technical and less commoditized than standard Cotopaxi packages.
Cayambe Glacier Expedition
Dificulty:
3 summits in 8 days – glacier training and summit on the equator line.
A premium expedition focused on technical learning and a summit attempt on Cayambe, the only major snow-capped volcano crossed by the equator. This package is ideal for clients who want glacier practice, a strong acclimatization process and an impressive but less crowded summit objective.
At a Glance
Duration | 8 days / 7 nights |
Main Objective | Cayambe – 5,790 m |
Acclimatization Peaks | Fuya Fuya and Imbabura |
Technical Focus | Crampons, piolet, rope travel and glacier movement |
Recommended Level | Intermediate fitness; prior hiking experience preferred |
Technical Gear | Mandatory in glacier |
Lodging Standard | 4-star hotel in Quito, premium hacienda in Cayambe / Otavalo region, mountain refuge |
Premium Price | USD 2,500 – 2,900 per person |
Premium Lodging Experience
- 4-star hotel in Quito for arrival and pre-expedition briefing.
- Premium hacienda or boutique Andean hotel in the Cayambe / Otavalo region.
- Refugio Ruales Oleas or equivalent mountain refuge for summit preparation.
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Location | Purpose |
1 | Arrival in Quito | Reception, briefing and rest |
2 | Fuya Fuya – 4,290 m | Initial acclimatization and rhythm assessment |
3 | Imbabura – approx. 4,610 m | Endurance, pacing and acclimatization |
4 | Transfer to Cayambe region | Hacienda stay and recovery |
5 | Refugio Ruales Oleas / glacier approach | Sleep at altitude and technical briefing |
6 | Glacier training | Crampons, piolet, rope systems and safety practice |
7 | Cayambe summit attempt – 5,790 m | Night ascent, glacier travel and descent |
8 | Return to Quito | Transfer and closing |
What Is Included
- Certified mountain guides ASEGUIM / UIAGM according to route requirements.
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled mountain logistics.
- Selected 4-star hotels and premium haciendas where available; mountain refuges or high camps when required for summit strategy.
- Selected meals during the program, adapted to mountain activity and itinerary timing.
- Technical group equipment required for glacier or high-mountain routes, according to each expedition.
- Park entrance permits and route coordination.
- Pre-expedition technical briefing, gear check and ongoing support during the program.
Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless expressly agreed.
- Mountain rescue, medical, travel or evacuation insurance.
- Personal clothing and personal mountain gear not expressly listed as included.
- Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages and additional activities not scheduled.
- Costs caused by weather, route closure, illness, early exit or force majeure.
Ideal For
Clients who want a strong technical introduction to Ecuadorian glacier climbing with premium lodging and a focused summit objective.
Strategic Differentiator
This product works as both a standalone premium climb and a preparatory expedition for Cotopaxi, Antisana or Chimborazo.
Explorer Andes Experience
Dificulty:
5 days – culture, acclimatization and premium soft adventure.
An introductory premium program for travelers who want to experience the Andes without committing to a technical glacier expedition. The itinerary combines scenic hikes, cultural immersion and selected lodging in Quito and the Andean highlands.
At a Glance
Duration | 5 days / 4 nights |
Main Focus | Soft adventure, culture and acclimatization |
Altitude Range | Approx. 3,000 – 4,700 m depending on route |
Recommended Level | Beginner / Active traveler |
Technical Gear | Not required for standard version |
Lodging Standard | 4-star hotel in Quito and selected hacienda |
Premium Price | USD 1,200 – 1,800 per person |
Premium Lodging Experience
- 4-star hotel in Quito.
- Selected hacienda or boutique Andean lodge.
- Optional premium extensions according to client profile.
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Location | Purpose |
1 | Arrival in Quito | Reception, hotel check-in and orientation |
2 | Otavalo and Andean highlands | Culture, local markets and gentle altitude exposure |
3 | Quilotoa crater loop / viewpoint hike | Scenic hiking and acclimatization |
4 | Ruminahui or Corazon approach | Moderate mountain hike and panoramic views |
5 | Return to Quito | Closing and departure support |
What Is Included
- Certified mountain guides ASEGUIM / UIAGM according to route requirements.
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled mountain logistics.
- Selected 4-star hotels and premium haciendas where available; mountain refuges or high camps when required for summit strategy.
- Selected meals during the program, adapted to mountain activity and itinerary timing.
- Technical group equipment required for glacier or high-mountain routes, according to each expedition.
Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless expressly agreed.
- Mountain rescue, medical, travel or evacuation insurance.
- Personal clothing and personal mountain gear not expressly listed as included.
- Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages and additional activities not scheduled.
- Costs caused by weather, route closure, illness, early exit or force majeure.
Ideal For
Premium travelers, couples, families or corporate clients seeking a safe, scenic and comfortable introduction to Ecuador’s mountains.
Strategic Differentiator
This is the gateway product: it introduces clients to Nanuk’s service standard and can convert into future technical expeditions.
Express Ascent
Series
Dificulty:
2–4 days – high-efficiency ascents for time-constrained travelers
Designed for experienced and well-acclimatized clients, the Express Ascent Series offers fast-track access to Ecuador’s most iconic summits.
At a Glance
Duration | 2-3 days / 3-4 nights |
Main Focus | Summits for clients with prior mountain experience |
Altitude Range | Approx. 3,000 – 4,700 m depending on route |
Recommended Level | Active traveler |
Technical Gear | Mandatory |
Lodging Standard | 4-star hotel in Quito and selected hacienda |
Indicative Premium Price | USD 1,200 – 1,800 per person |
Premium Lodging Experience
- 4-star hotel in Quito.
- Selected hacienda or boutique Andean lodge.
- Optional premium extensions according to client profile.
Detailed Itinerary
Day | Activity / Location | Purpose |
1 | Arrival in Quito | Reception, hotel check-in and orientation |
2 | Accommodation in the Andean highlands | Reception, hotel/hacienda check-in and orientation |
3 | Cotopaxi, Cayambe, Antisana or Chimborazo | Refuge and preparation |
4 | Summit and Return to Quito | Summit attempt and return |
Important Note:
Due to the limited acclimatization period, these programs carry higher altitude-related risk and require prior experience.
What Is Included
- Certified mountain guides ASEGUIM / UIAGM according to route requirements.
- Private ground transportation for all scheduled mountain logistics.
- Selected 4-star hotels and premium haciendas where available; mountain refuges or high camps when required for summit strategy.
- Selected meals during the program, adapted to mountain activity and itinerary timing.
- Technical group equipment required for glacier or high-mountain routes, according to each expedition.
Not Included
- International and domestic flights unless expressly agreed.
- Mountain rescue, medical, travel or evacuation insurance.
- Personal clothing and personal mountain gear not expressly listed as included.
- Tips, personal expenses, alcoholic beverages and additional activities not scheduled.
- Costs caused by weather, route closure, illness, early exit or force majeure.
Commercial Notes for International Clients
- Prices are indicative and should be confirmed according to group size, season, lodging availability and guide ratio.
- Private departures can be quoted at a premium depending on exclusivity and customization requirements.
- Premium lodging is subject to availability and mountain geography; summit nights may require refuges, huts or high camps for safety and strategy.
- All programs should require mandatory travel and mountain activity insurance for international clients.
- Weather, volcanic activity and route conditions may require itinerary adjustments for safety reasons.
Recommended Brand Promise
From acclimatization to summit, Nanuk Adventures designs premium mountain expeditions in Ecuador with certified guides, thoughtful logistics, selected lodging and a safety-first approach tailored to each client’s objective.
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