Stories: Ecuador
Mountain adventures create the best stories, and we want to share some of ours with you. Dive into Alpenglow Stories to stay up to date on expeditions in the field, read blogs, and get tips and tricks from guides.
Why We’re Still Guiding in Ecuador
Our safety protocols, trusted local operators, and two decades of experience on the ground are why Ecuador remains one of our most confident operations.
Read the story
Choosing the Right Ice Axe and Crampons for Your Objective
Learn how to choose the right ice axe and crampons for your objective. We break down the different types of tools and when to use them for glacier travel, mountaineering, and technical alpine climbing.
Read the story
2025: A Year in Review at Alpenglow Expeditions
As 2025 comes to a close, we have been taking a moment to look back. Not just where we went, but how we showed up, and who we shared it with.
Read the story
When Everything Feels Crazy, Go Climb a Volcano
It feels like the volume of life keeps turning up. News headlines, work demands, social media, and the constant ping of notifications all compete for attention. The result? A mind that feels full but rarely fulfilled.
Read the storyCotopaxi Rapid Ascent™ – High Altitude in Just Five Days
Thanks to our Rapid Ascent™ system, climbers can attempt Cotopaxi in just five days—making it possible to step into big-mountain terrain without taking weeks away from home.
Read the story
One Itinerary, Two Styles: Climb or Ski Ecuador’s Big Volcanoes
With Alpenglow Expeditions, you can do either—on the same 16-day itinerary. The Ecuador Climbing School and the Ring of Fire Ski Expedition both summit Cayambe (18,996’ / 5,790m), Chimborazo (20,564’ / 6,268m), and either Cotopaxi or Antisana, depending on mountain conditions.
Read the story
Skiing Through Prehistory: Why the Ring of Fire Feels Primordial
There’s something surreal about skiing on an active volcano. Steam rising from vents, snow underfoot, and dense jungle at the trailhead. It feels otherworldly. But there’s a reason these places feel so ancient: they are.
Read the story
Ski the Ring of Fire!
Ever wondered what skiing a volcano is like? Come put your backcountry skills to the test on some of the tallest volcanoes in the world!
Read the story
Comparing Acclimatization Approaches in the Andes, Himalaya, and Pamirs: How Alpenglow Expeditions Tailors Its Programs for Success
When it comes to climbing high-altitude peaks around the world, how you acclimatize can make or break an expedition. The Andes, Himalaya, and Pamir ranges each present unique challenges based on altitude, terrain, and logistics — and acclimatizing properly to these environments requires an approach that fits the mountain, not a one-size-fits-all plan.
Read the story
February 2024 Ecuador Climbing School Expedition Recap
Lead Guide Chad Peele Recaps the Feb 2024 ECS
Read the story