Illiniza Norte + Quilotoa 5,126m

SUMMITS 5000M

Illiniza Norte + QuilotoaGuided expedition · Ecuador

Illiniza Norte + Quilotoa is a three-day event that pairs a rock summit with a night of camping beside the Quilotoa crater lake. It is a fully guided summit attempt, operated end to end by PEAKS with certified mountain guides: ideal for building altitude, skills and community.

On day two we climb Illiniza Norte, 5,126 m, a non-glacier summit on rock and scree (a helmet is mandatory), and in the afternoon we descend to set up camp beside the turquoise Quilotoa lake. Day three opens with a sunrise Wim Hof breathing session and free activities — kayak, trail or yoga — before we drive back to Cuenca.

It is a perfect trip for anyone after a first 5,000 m summit with a wellness and nature experience. No previous technical experience is required: just solid fitness and a love for the mountains.

The details

Expedition facts

5,126 m / 16,818 ft

Altitude

0.6592° S, 78.7139° W

Coordinates

3 days / 2N

Duration

F+ (scramble) · Intermediate level

Grade

Summit on day 2 + camping and wellness

Daily activity

Year-round; best December to January and June to September

Season

Meeting point

Cuenca & Riobamba (pickup)

Starting from

By WhatsApp

Request a quote ›

The plan

Itinerary3 days / 2 night

The climb

Day 01

Departure from Cuenca
We meet in Cuenca (exact location shared via WhatsApp) and drive overnight toward the Illinizas.

Day 02

Check-in and climb to the Illinizas
Morning check-in at the reserve and ascent toward Illiniza Norte.
Illiniza Norte summit (5,126 m)
Summit attempt on the rock ridge; helmet mandatory, no glacier.
Camping at Quilotoa
We descend and set up camp beside the Quilotoa crater lake.

Day 03

Sunrise Wim Hof
Wim Hof breathing session by the lake.
Kayak, trail or yoga
A morning of free activities: kayak on the lake, trail or yoga.
Return to Cuenca
We break camp and drive back to Cuenca.

Transparency

What's included

Included

Guiding on Illiniza Norte
Camping at Quilotoa with tents
Hot drinks and hydration
Transport from Cuenca
Entrance permits
Training sessions and photography

Not included

Technical equipment (helmet, harness, crampons), available for rent from PEAKS
Meals
Sleeping bag and mat

Good to know

FAQ

Is the summit guaranteed?

No. This is a summit attempt and depends on weather and rock conditions; safety always comes first.

What does the Quilotoa camping include?

The camp with tents beside the crater lake. Bring your own sleeping bag and mat (not included) and some food to share.

Do I need technical experience?

No. Illiniza Norte is a non-glacier climb on rock; with solid fitness and a helmet it is well within reach.

How do I book?

Message us on WhatsApp to arrange dates and a quote. Your spot is confirmed with a non-refundable deposit.

Illiniza Norte + Quilotoa