EQUATOR GLACIER

Climb Cayambe

The only glacier the equator crosses.

0.0290° N, 77.9865° W — 5,790 M
Certified Guides1:2 Guide Ratio AvailableWe Own Our EquipmentFree Summit Photography
SUMMITS 5000M

Climb CayambeGuided expedition · Ecuador

Climb Cayambe, Ecuador's third-highest peak at 5,790 m and the highest point on Earth crossed by the equatorial line — the only glacier that sits on latitude zero. This guided Cayambe expedition is run by PEAKS with certified national mountain guides and a full high-altitude support system.

The route climbs a heavily crevassed glacier with mixed rock and ice sections, so we brief and practise glacier travel and crevasse rescue before the climb. We overnight at the Ruales-Oleas-Berge refuge (4,600 m) and start the summit push at midnight, guiding at a 1:2 ratio with our own high-end equipment.

Cayambe is a demanding guided glacier climb that suits climbers with crampon and ice-axe experience and good acclimatisation. It is a strong objective inside a multi-summit acclimatisation program alongside Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.

The details

Expedition facts

5,790 m / 18,996 ft
Altitude
0.0290° N, 77.9865° W
Coordinates
2 days / 1N
Duration
AD− (alpine) · Advanced
Grade
6–8 hrs summit push (midnight start)
Daily activity
December–January & June–September (driest, most stable)
Season
Meeting point
Riobamba (pickup)
Starting from
Enquire for prices

Experience on crampons and ice axe and comfort on crevassed glacier terrain, plus good acclimatisation. Attendance at the pre-climb briefing is mandatory.

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The plan

Itinerary2 days / 1 night

Day 01
Day 02
Transparency

What's included

Included

  • Certified national mountain guides (1:2 ratio available)
  • Hotel pickup and transport from Riobamba
  • Refuge accommodation (Ruales-Oleas-Berge)
  • Hot drinks and hydration on the mountain
  • Glacier and crevasse-rescue briefing
  • Summit photography
  • Pre-climb acclimatisation and training support

Not included

  • Technical gear rental (ice axe, crampons, harness, helmet, boots) — available from Peaks
  • Personal clothing (3-layer system)
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Travel and rescue insurance
  • Optional tips
Good to know

FAQ

Is the summit guaranteed?
No. This is a summit attempt: crevasse and weather conditions decide the day, and safety comes first.
Why is Cayambe special?
It is the highest point crossed by the equator and the only glacier on latitude zero — a unique climb found nowhere else on Earth.
How technical is the route?
It is more crevassed than Cotopaxi, with mixed rock and ice, so previous glacier experience is important.
How do I book and what does it cost?
Prices are quoted on request. Enquire on WhatsApp and confirm with a non-refundable deposit.
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