The Sangay National park with a size of 271.000 ha has been founded in 1979 and covers parts of the provinces Chimborazo, Morona Santiago and Tungurahua. Within its borders three volcanoes can be found, two of them are still active. The Tungurahua (5.016 m.) who has showed an increasing activity during the last months represents a breathtaking spectacle. The Sangay (5.230 m) is situated at the edge of the rainforest and is one of the most active volcanoes of the world. And finally there is the Altar (5.320 m), who is extinct for a long time.
Sangay is famous because it is one of the most active volcanoes in the world: its mood can change hourly. Although it hasn't had a major blow recently, Ecuadorians keep a watchful eye on its dubious activity as volcanic rocks, ash and smoke are constantly spewing forth. Occasionally, lava oozes down the mountain's sides, making an unforgettable and sizzling sight at night. To reach the volcano's base we will trek through marshy valleys, across several rivers and over a number of mountains before reaching our camp at La Playa (The Beach). The scenery is spectacular and if the weather is good we will be rewarded with superb views of Sangay. This trek is fairly rugged, so excellent physical condition is required.

Itinerary:
Day 01: Quito - Riobamba - Alao
We travel from Quito via Riobamba to the small Indian village of Alao and from there to the Hacienda Eten, which we will reach after a 5-6 hours drive. On our way we will get first impressions of the daily life of the Indians of this region. Lunch on route and overnight in Eten - either in a tent or hut. L/D

Day 02: Escaleras River
After unloading the luggage onto packing-horses our way will lead us through the last cultivated fields and meadows out of civilization into our adventure. We hike for approximately 7 hours along the Quebrada Azashuaycu towards the Escaleras River. Camp. B/L/D

Day 03: Plazapamba - Yanayacu River
From here we continue through the Paramo. Our way will cross-rivers and valleys and lead us higher and higher until we reach the plain Plazapamba, which is named after the river of the same name. After about 6 hours we set up our next camp on the banks of the Yanayacu River. B/L/D

Day 04: Sangay - La Playa
We continue hiking towards the Orient and with a little luck we should be able to see beautiful scenery and the spectacular Sangay in a state of eruption. The terrain will get more difficult and the vegetation will assume the nature of the Paramo. In the afternoon we arrive at the base camp at la Playa that is located at the southwest side of the volcano at an altitude of 3.600 meters. B/L/D

Day 05: Sangay
At about 4:00 o'clock we start climbing to the summit, which we will hopefully reach within 6-7 hours. The success of the climb depends above all from the intensity of the eruptions which can force us to turn back earlier. While climbing you are able to feel the power of the volcano, which expresses itself in trembling and small eruptions. This will be a unique experience! B/L/D

Day 06: Sangay - Plazapamba
On our way back we hike through a landscape that over the centuries has been determined by the majestetic volcano. In 7-8 hours we will set up our camp in Plazabamba. B/L/D

Day 07: Plazapamba
We continue the return and have once again the possibility to enjoy the almost untouched landscape. Perhaps we will be lucky and see one of the timid inhabitants of this bleak wilderness - e.g. a tapir, a spectacled bear or even a puma. After a 7-8 hours march we set up our camp. B/L/D

Day 08: Eten - Riobamba - Quito
Return to Eten, then by car to Riobamba and finally back to Quito where we will arrive in the night. B/L/-

Price: USD 1.080, - per person

Included: private transportation, English speaking guide, meals as listed above, collective camp equipment (dining tent, 1 or 2-pers.-tents, toilet tent), foam pad, tables, stools, kitchen gear etc., cook, pack animals, entrance National Park.

Not included: international flight, accommodation and food supply in Quito, airport tax ( USD 25,-), sleeping bag, personal equipment, tips, travel insurance.
What to bring with you: sleeping bag, sun glasses, sun block, rain wear, torch, hat, trekking shoes, warm clothing, canteen, camera and film (100 ASA)
Tour operated with min. 2 Pax