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One Itinerary, Two Styles: Climb or Ski Ecuador’s Big Volcanoes

Skiers ascend a glacier through crevassed terrain under dark, cloudy skies.

Skiers ascend a glacier through crevassed terrain under dark, cloudy skies.

The Ecuador Climbing School

The Ecuador Climbing School is for aspiring alpinists looking to build skills while climbing real glaciated peaks. Over the course of 16 days, you’ll develop technical proficiency on snow and ice and summit three of Ecuador’s most iconic volcanoes.

• Duration: 16 days
• Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate climbers
• Focus: Glacier travel, roped climbing, crampon technique, crevasse rescue
• Summits: Cayambe, Cotopaxi or Antisana, and Chimborazo

With AMGA/IFMGA-certified guides leading the way, this program is equal parts instruction and execution. You’ll walk away with the skills—and the altitude experience—needed for future climbs on Aconcagua, Peak Lenin, or even Everest.

Explore the Ecuador Climbing School

Ring of Fire Ski Expedition: Ski the Same Peaks

The Ring of Fire Ski Expedition follows the exact same itinerary—but instead of climbing down, you ski from the summits. It’s a rare opportunity to ski big, glaciated volcanoes in the tropics while building your ski mountaineering skillset at altitude.

• Duration: 16 days
• Skill Level: Advanced backcountry skiers with glacier travel experience
• Focus: Skinning, bootpacking, glacier travel, high-altitude ski descents
• Summits (and ski descents): Cayambe, Cotopaxi or Antisana, and Chimborazo

You’ll tour with professional ski guides who know the terrain and teach the specific techniques needed for steep skiing on big glaciers. The altitude is real, the descents are long, and the experience is unlike any other ski expedition out there.

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Which One’s Right for You?

Both trips offer:

✅ Three massive glaciated volcanoes
✅ A structured altitude progression
✅ High-end instruction and small group ratios
✅ A blend of learning, adventure, and challenge

Not sure which to pick? Reach out here and we’ll help match you with the trip that fits your goals.

Expeditions

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