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ECUADOR : ICE CLIMBING
the Equator to the highest point in the world from the earths core
Two weeks - Learn To Ice Climb - No experience required
"Amazing snow covered volcano's, from the Equator to the highest point in the world from the Earths core - an incredible adventure, thank you"
The Greenforce Ice Climbing program is suitable for both beginners and experienced alike. Based in the Andes you will learn the internationally recognized skills to ensure you can safely ascend some of the highest peaks in Ecuador. All technical equipment is provided. Moderate fitness is required however acclimatization and rest days are built into this two week program.
On Arrival: We collect you from Quito International Airport, just look out for Colin and Carlos in their Greenforce polo's. We then take you to your homestay.
As Quito is the second highest Capital city in the world, you will need a day to acclimatise, so the next day after your first nights sleep, we will complete your Welcome and Safety briefing at our offices.
We then show you around, this includes a tour of the UNESCO protected old quarter and also to the Equator Monument.
Stand astride the Equator
You will stand astride the world at latitude 00'00. Also experience the water down the plug, the only place to balance an egg on a nail and the amazing way your arms weaken on the Equator line itself - it has to be experienced to be believed! Plus this is an ideal rest day before tomorrow and the start of training.
Climb: Cotopaxi - The world's highest active volcano
Following your pick up by Greenforce staff you will undertake a light acclimatisation walk to Ecuador's largest lake, San Pablo and also visit Otavalo. On day three we undertake our first shake down climb - of the volcano Guagua Pichincha (4800m-13,773 ft).
The following day is a rest day and normally means some changes to the kit you use. Following your first serious climb we use today to reassess what you need and more important what you do not now need to carry. If time, the guides may take us around the more hidden and historic parts of Quito, before setting out on the fifth day.
Now fully acclimatised and fitter its time for Glacier School. Here we learn the traverse techniques, crevasse rescue, rope handling and snow climbing.
Over the following days we will climb Volcano - Cayambe (5790 m - 19,342 ft). Volcan Cotopaxi (5897 m 19786 ft) - the world's highest active volcano. Finally on day thirteen - the big one. Due to the earth's Equatorial bulge, Chimborazo is not only Ecuador's highest peak - but it the furthest point in the world from the earth's core.
- Hal, Expedition Leader - Ecuador, Marcus - UK office and Steve - USA office, prove that, with the correct training, anyone can summit !
Climb: the highest point in the world from the earth's core - at night!
We rise at midnight for breakfast and equipment check and move off by 1 am on to the massive south-westerly glacier. The moderately angled slopes become steeper as we rope together in order to cross crevasses until finally making the summit after around 8-9 hours of climbing. Here we see the Codillera Volcano seemingly emerging through the clouds at our feet as the sun rises over the highest points in the Andes.
We return to our refuge about noon before heading down to Banos - the gateway to the Amazon for some well deserved celebrations!
Our last day is spent relaxing at the Inez Maria waterfalls on the Pastaza River and for the energetic, a chance to explore the jungle forest. Your final night in Quito gives you the opportunity to kick back and relax in Ecuador's capital before flying home.
ICE CLIMBING ADVENTURE INCLUDES:
On receipt of your Booking Form, we will call to discuss any questions you may have. STA will also call you to discuss your flight options. You then receive briefing packs including medical, kit, FCO advice, country history and project information. Plus your GF polo. You will also be invited to your briefing day in Central London. We will fully prepare you before you go.
Airport collection and transfer to your accommodation. Welcome and safety briefing. City tour of UNESCO old town. Equator Monument tour. Glacier School including rope handling, crampons and ice axe use, glacier snow traverse, crevasse rescue skills. Climbs of: Volcan Pichincha - 4800m/15744 ft, Volcan Cayambe - 5790m/19342 ft, Volcan Cotapaxi 5897m/19,786ft, Chimborazo 6,310m/20697ft. Including night summit. All meals as listed. Local transport and acclimatisation walks. Final celebration dinner. Emergency back up. Airport drop off. London reunion party.
Ropes and harness are provided. Helmets axe and plastic boots etc can be rented for £195.
Prices : 2 Weeks £1400
Dates: Flexible dates all year round.
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