Top Hiking Trails in Chimborazo Trail Map
Chimborazo province covers 6,110 km² of the central Andes, with Riobamba (2,754 m) as its capital. A GPS survey on 5 February 2016 measured Chimborazo at 6,263.47 m; its top is 6,384.4 km from the Earth's centre, about 2 km farther than Everest's. The Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, part of the national protected-area system since 1987, covers about 58,560 ha across Chimborazo, Tungurahua and Bolívar.
Explore the Best Trails in Chimborazo
Chimborazo hiking trails start at the Carrel refuge (4,850 m), reached by road inside the Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve (58,560 ha). A 900 m path climbs to the Whymper refuge (about 5,000 m), and the glacier climb to 6,263 m needs a certified high-mountain guide. Entry is free. Checked 8 October 2026. Country hub: https://incatrailreservations.com/trails/ecuador/
Geographic Overview
Chimborazo province covers 6,110 km² of the central Andes, with Riobamba (2,754 m) as its capital. A GPS survey on 5 February 2016 measured Chimborazo at 6,263.47 m; its top is 6,384.4 km from the Earth’s centre, about 2 km farther than Everest’s. The Chimborazo Fauna Production Reserve, part of the national protected-area system since 1987, covers about 58,560 ha across Chimborazo, Tungurahua and Bolívar.
Cultural Context
The reserve was set up as a habitat for Andean camelids, and vicuñas, llamas and alpacas live on its páramo. The Carrel refuge reopened on 14 April 2022 after renovation. In 2025 the press reported illegal charges for ‘guiding’ at the reserve’s access points: entry is free.
Best Time to Visit
For the climb, November to February and May to July. The refuge walk is possible most of the year; arrive before midday cloud.
Chimborazo: Refuge Hike and Normal Route Climb
Chimborazo (6,263 m) offers two very different days: a 900 m walk from the Carrel refuge (4,850 m) to the…
Frequently Asked Questions about Top Hiking Trails in Chimborazo
6,263.47 m by the 2016 GPS survey. Its top is the point on Earth farthest from the planet’s centre, about 2 km farther than Everest’s.
Yes. There is no entry fee for the reserve; charges for ‘guiding’ at the access points were reported as illegal in 2025.
For the climb, yes: a certified high-mountain guide. For the refuge walk, only groups of 16 or more need one.
About 900 m of path from 4,850 m to about 5,000 m.
November to February and May to July.
To the Carrel refuge at 4,850 m, the only refuge at that height reachable by vehicle.