Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun worth booking?
Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun is a 10-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $340 per person. It scores 60 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 60 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (7)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $340 per person
This Tour to the Chimborazo Volcano, one of the highest mountains in Ecuador, you cannot miss because it is full of typical Andean natural landscapes of the Andes, Summer is the best time to climb the Chimborazo Volcano. It is considered the furthest point on Earth with 6,263 meters above sea level (20.548 ft) and 6,384 km. It has two refuges: the Hermanos Carrel refuge at 4845 m.a.s.l (15895 ft) and the Whymper refuge at 5042 m.a.s.l (16541 ft.) Chimborazo is called the King of the Ecuadorian Andes, surpassing all volcanoes and hills. The enormous massif extends from east to west and its upper part is covered by glaciers, which are a source of water for the nearby populations. The fauna is represented mainly by llamas, vicuñas, small rabbits, wild horses, marsupial mice, paramo wolves, quindes, curiquingues, pigs, and condors.
What you get
About this experience
This Tour to the Chimborazo Volcano, one of the highest mountains in Ecuador, you cannot miss because it is full of typical Andean natural landscapes of the Andes, Summer is the best time to climb the Chimborazo Volcano. It is considered the furthest point on Earth with 6,263 meters above sea level (20.548 ft) and 6,384 km. It has two refuges: the Hermanos Carrel refuge at 4845 m.a.s.l (15895 ft) and the Whymper refuge at 5042 m.a.s.l (16541 ft.) Chimborazo is called the King of the Ecuadorian Andes, surpassing all volcanoes and hills. The enormous massif extends from east to west and its upper part is covered by glaciers, which are a source of water for the nearby populations. The fauna is represented mainly by llamas, vicuñas, small rabbits, wild horses, marsupial mice, paramo wolves, quindes, curiquingues, pigs, and condors.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Bilingual Tour Guide
- Entrance to Chimborazo Reserve
- Pick Up /Drop Off
Not included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Breakfast
- Lunch
What you'll see and do
Quito
We start early in the morning. We leave from your Hotel/accommodation to start with the tour
Pass by without stopping
Mount Chimborazo
The adventure begins! Our tour to Chimborazo from Quito takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to observe the magical landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. The main entrance to Chimborazo National Park is located in the Casahuala Control Area. We will arrive at approximately 10:30 a.m. at the main entrance. Located at an altitude of 4,386 meters (14,389 feet), this access point is the most used by visitors and has an interpretation center where you can obtain information about the park's flora, fauna, and geology.
240 minutes here · Admission included
After a 30-minute drive into the reserve, our tour will take us to the Hermanos Carrel Refuge, the first refuge in the Chimborazo Wildlife Production Reserve, located at an altitude of 4,850 meters above sea level. It's a key stop for mountaineers and tourists visiting the Chimborazo Volcano Tour, as our ascent begins here.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Chimborazo Refuge Hike
Refugio Hermanos Carrel is a mountain refuge perched at approximately 4,845 m (15,892 ft) on the slopes of Chimborazo Volcano, inside the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, just above its upper parking area .
10 minutes here · Admission included
Laguna Condor Cocha
Cóndor Cocha Lagoon is a small glacial lake located at 5,100 meters (16,732 ft) above sea level on the slopes of Chimborazo Volcano, within the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve. Surrounded by stunning high-Andean landscapes, it offers breathtaking views and a rare opportunity to experience extreme altitude without technical climbing. Its name means “Condor Lagoon” in Kichwa, inspired by the occasional sightings of the majestic Andean condor. Though small, the lagoon is a symbolic destination for trekkers and nature lovers. The trail to Cóndor Cocha begins at the Hermanos Carrel Refuge (~4,845 m), continues to the Whymper Refuge (~5,000 m), and then extends about 500 meters further uphill to the lagoon. The hike is moderately challenging due to the altitude but offers unmatched panoramic views of the volcano and surrounding páramo.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Chimborazo Province
After your high-altitude adventure, enjoy a comforting lunch at a local Ecuadorian restaurant near the Chimborazo Reserve. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and showcase the rich culinary traditions of the Andean highlands. ( No included)
60 minutes here
Quito
After enjoying a traditional Ecuadorian lunch near the Chimborazo Reserve, we begin our journey back to Quito. Sit back and relax as we drive through scenic Andean landscapes, passing through highland villages and valleys along the way. Arrival in Quito is expected in the evening, concluding an unforgettable day in the shadow of Ecuador’s highest peak.
240 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Real Dreams Tour
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
3 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Physical effort
2 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Traveler reviews
7 verified traveler reviews for Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
perfect
perfect campsite, nothing to complain about except the complicated access to the beach
Response from the operator: Cher voyageur, Merci beaucoup pour votre avis ! Nous sommes ravis d'apprendre que le camping a pleinement répondu à vos attentes. Nous prenons bonne note de votre commentaire et apporterons des améliorations pour rendre l'expérience encore plus agréable pour nos prochains visiteurs. Merci encore d'avoir pris le temps de partager votre expérience. Bien cordialement, l'équipe de Real Dream Team.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Great experience and company!
This tour was absolutely wonderful from the adventure to the company of Ayrton. This walk was intense but totally worth it, i will do the summit next year. I’m very happy with the tour, from the pick up until the drop off! Ayrton is very friendly, knowledgeable, and he knows how to take the best photos that’ll last a lifetime ☺️ I’m very pleased, thank you so much for a great experience!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re very happy you enjoyed the hike and had a great experience with Ayrton. We look forward to welcoming you back next year for the summit! Thank you for choosing Real Dreams Tours!
via Tripadvisor
Book it – you won't regret it!
Absolutely incredible experience – 10/10! I cannot recommend this tour enough! I booked a private day trip from Quito to Chimborazo, and it was truly one of the highlights of my nearly two months exploring Ecuador. I honestly can't believe more tourists don't visit Chimborazo — it is absolutely breathtaking, and such an amazing place to experience. I was picked up directly from my apartment, we stopped for breakfast, and then headed out toward Chimborazo. Irene was an absolutely FABULOUS guide — incredibly knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely passionate about Ecuador. I learned SO much from her throughout the day, and that is saying something, as I've already spent nearly two months exploring Ecuador! She shared so much fascinating information about the landscape, history, culture, and the area around Chimborazo. Jimmy was our driver and was equally wonderful. He has such a great sense of humor and was an excellent, very safe driver. He also came along on the hike with us, which was such a nice surprise! He also recommended a delicious restaurant for lunch. Irene and Jimmy were both so kind and made the entire day feel easy, fun, and comfortable. As a 22-year-old woman traveling alone, I also want to emphasize how truly safe and secure I felt the entire time. I was completely comfortable with both Irene and Jimmy, and they took such great care of me throughout the day. I never once felt worried or uncomfortable traveling so far from Quito on my own. And, the PHOTOS! Irene and Jimmy took FABULOUS pictures of me — genuinely better than anything I could have taken myself. They knew exactly where to stop and how to capture the scenery, and I came away with so many incredible photos and memories from the day. The hike itself was also amazing. I personally found it less difficult than hiking Cotopaxi, although the altitude is definitely challenging and should not be underestimated! The landscape is absolutely surreal, and being up there surrounded by that incredible scenery is an experience I will never forget. If you're considering doing this tour, book it! Especially if you're traveling alone, I could not recommend Irene and Jimmy more highly. They were knowledgeable, funny, kind, professional, and made the entire experience unforgettable. This was one of the best days I've had in Ecuador, and I am so grateful to them both! It's so worth it.
Response from the operator: We are incredibly grateful for your beautiful words and for sharing such a detailed experience with us, Maddy! It makes us very happy to know that your private trip to Chimborazo became one of the highlights of your time exploring Ecuador. We are thrilled to hear how much you enjoyed your day with Irene and Jimmy. Irene’s passion, knowledge, and love for Ecuador truly shine through every experience, and we are glad she was able to share the landscapes, history, and culture of Chimborazo with you. We will also make sure to share your kind words with Jimmy, who always brings great energy, care, and professionalism to every journey. We are especially happy to know that you felt safe and comfortable throughout the entire adventure. Creating a welcoming and secure experience for every traveler is very important to us, and we are grateful that Irene and Jimmy helped make your solo journey so memorable. We love hearing that you enjoyed the hike, the incredible scenery, and the photos captured along the way. Chimborazo is truly a magical place, and we are glad you were able to experience its beauty and create unforgettable memories. Thank you again for your amazing recommendation. It was a pleasure being part of your Ecuador adventure, and we hope to have you back soon for more incredible experiences. You will always be welcome!
via Tripadvisor
A white and unique place full of snow in Ecuador
It is one of the most beautiful mountains in Ecuador, as these elevations are unique in the world and the volcano is one of the largest on the planet
Response from the operator: Nos alegra mucho, saber que pudiste apreciar la belleza única de esta montaña, una de las más impresionantes de Ecuador y del mundo. Sus elevaciones y la majestuosidad del volcán realmente la convierten en un lugar especial e inolvidable. ¡Esperamos verte nuevamente para seguir descubriendo juntos las maravillas de nuestro país!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Wonderful trip up Chimborazo
My husband and I ( ages 79 and 81) had a wonderful trip to Chimborazo on Sept 17, 2025 with guide Andres and driver Jimmy. Jimmy was a very skilled driver, negotiating both Quito streets and the badly washboarded gravel road up to 15,000 ft on Chimborazo. Andres was very knowledgeable about the area and the 3 1/2 hour spectacular drive passed quickly. We then hiked up to 16,000 ft with Andres. We wanted a private tour since we didn’t know how slowly we might go and didn’t want to hold up others. Andres supported our pace. On the way back to Quito we stopped for lunch at a wonderful local restaurant full of climbing flags and memorabilia, and with a statue of von Humboldt out front. All in all an exceptional day. Highly recommend
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re truly honored to have been part of your journey to Chimborazo. It’s inspiring to hear how you and your husband embraced the adventure, and we’re glad that Andres and Jimmy helped make the day both safe and memorable. From navigating the mountain roads to hiking at your own pace, it sounds like a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. We also love that you appreciated the local lunch stop it’s a hidden gem! Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you again on another unforgettable adventure. :)
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $340 to $400
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Real Dreams Tour, who run 14 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.4.
See everything Real Dreams Tour runsWhy this scores 60
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.
How much does Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun cost?
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Prices start at $340 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun take?
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Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.
Is Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 60 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
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On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Quito?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Quito?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun?
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Included: Private transportation; Bilingual Tour Guide; Entrance to Chimborazo Reserve; and Pick Up /Drop Off. Not included: Alcoholic beverages; Breakfast; and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 245 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. Be ready about 5 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Quito. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Chimborazo Hike from Quito: Closest Point to the Sun?
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Across 7 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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