Starting the Journey from Quito or The Secret Garden Cotopaxi
The Illiniza Norte climb begins early in the morning, typically around 7:00 am, when climbers prepare their gear and get ready for a full day of high-altitude adventure in the Ecuadorian Andes. This tour can be organized from either The Secret Garden Quito or The Secret Garden Cotopaxi, giving travelers flexibility depending on their itinerary and acclimatisation needs.
For those starting from Quito, the journey begins with transportation south along the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes, one of the most scenic mountain routes in Ecuador. Along the way, the group makes a stop at a traditional roadside location, where climbers can enjoy a simple local meal and prepare physically for the ascent ahead. This stop is an important moment to fuel the body before entering higher altitude terrain.
Travelers who choose to stay at The Secret Garden Cotopaxi have a significant advantage. Located at 3,500 metres above sea level, the hostel provides excellent conditions for acclimatisation before attempting a summit above 5,000 metres. Sleeping at this altitude helps the body adjust naturally to the mountain environment, reducing fatigue and improving performance during the climb. From there, the group departs directly toward the mountain region, making the approach shorter and more comfortable.
Both options lead to the same destination: the base of Illiniza Norte, one of Ecuador’s most accessible and rewarding high-altitude peaks.
Hiking to the Refuge and Preparing for the Summit
After arriving in the mountain region near the village of El Chaupi, the journey continues by vehicle to La Virgen parking area, located at approximately 3,900 metres above sea level. This is where the real adventure begins.
From this point, climbers start the hike toward Nuevos Horizontes Refuge, following a steady trail through volcanic terrain and alpine landscapes. The ascent typically takes around three hours, allowing the body to gradually adapt to the altitude while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
For those choosing the two-day option, the afternoon is spent resting at the refuge, located at approximately 4,750 metres. This extra time at high altitude significantly improves acclimatisation and makes summit day safer and more comfortable. Climbers hydrate, relax, organize their equipment, and enjoy dinner while watching the sunset over the Andes.
The one-day option follows the same route but continues directly toward the summit without the overnight stay. This alternative is best suited for experienced hikers who are already well acclimatised to altitude and looking to reach a 5,000-metre peak in a single day.
Both options are designed to provide a safe and structured progression toward the summit while allowing climbers to experience the beauty and challenge of high-altitude trekking.
Reaching the Illiniza Norte Summit and Returning Safely
Summit day begins early in the morning, usually before sunrise, when temperatures are cooler and weather conditions are more stable. After a light breakfast, climbers prepare their equipment and begin the ascent toward the saddle between the two Illiniza peaks.
The final section of the climb involves hiking and light scrambling across rocky terrain. This part of the route requires focus and determination but does not demand advanced technical climbing skills, making Illiniza Norte an excellent first mountain above 5,000 metres for many adventurers.
After approximately three hours of steady ascent, climbers reach the summit at 5,126 metres above sea level. Standing at the top offers a powerful sense of achievement and unforgettable views across the Andes. On clear days, it is possible to see Cotopaxi, Rumiñahui, Pasochoa, and many other volcanoes stretching across the horizon.
Following time at the summit for photos and rest, the descent begins back toward La Virgen parking area. From there, transportation returns the group to Machachi and then back to The Secret Garden Cotopaxi or Quito, depending on the starting point.
Reaching the summit of Illiniza Norte is more than just a hike. It is a milestone experience for travelers who want to challenge themselves, build confidence at high altitude, and take their first step into the world of mountaineering in Ecuador.
Location
Mountains
Quito
trip type
Hiking
Treking
Duration
2 days
Starting at
USD 275
It is one of the two peaks of the Illinizas, a pair of volcanic mountains that used to be part of the same volcano, which was then divided. Illiniza Norte does not feature a glacier like its sister peak, but instead requires scrambling to reach the top. It is a great option for people aspiring to climb above 5,000 metres for the first time, or for those training to attempt one of the higher glaciated peaks. Prepare for some high altitude trekking and scrambling!
This tour can be organised from either The Secret Garden Cotopaxi or The Secret Garden Quito. However, we recommend staying at The Secret Garden Cotopaxi, as it’s a much better location for acclimatisation! The hostel is located at 3,500 metres, 700 metres higher than Quito, which means you sleep high up and better prepare your body for high altitude trekking. There are also many hiking options, perfect for training for the higher peaks! Furthermore, this tour can be done in either one or two days. The 1-day option is better-suited for those wishing to attempt a greater-than-5,000-metre peak without more ambitious plans. The 2-day option includes staying at the Illinizas refuge for one night, and is more suitable for those training for one of the glaciated peaks, as they end up spending more time at even higher altitude and acclimatise even better. The 2-day option is also suitable for those who have not hiked above 5,000 metres before and prefer to do it a bit more gradually.
Day1: Machachi – Nuevos Horizontes Hut (15,580ft/4,750m)
We will leave from Machachi in the morning and drive through the Avenue of the Volcanoes until we get to the village of “El Chaupi”. We will continue driving until we get to “La Virgen parking lot” (12,795ft/3,900m). Once there, we will start a 3-hour hike up to the “Nuevos Horizontes Refuge” (15,580ft/4,750m). We will relax for the rest of the afternoon. Dinner will be served by late afternoon. (-/-/D)
Day 2: Illiniza Norte Summit (16,818ft/5,126m) – Machachi
Our climbing day starts at 5am. We will have a light breakfast, pack our climbing equipment and leave the refuge an hour later. We will continue hiking up towards the saddle formed between both peaks and then to the Illiniza Norte summit (16,818ft/5,126 m). The approach to the top involves an easy 3-hour scrambling. Once at the summit, we will enjoy and admire the beautiful surroundings. After that, we will descend to La Virgen parking lot from the other side and drive back to Machachi. (B/-/-)
(Times are approximate)
Day 1
9.30am Depart from The Secret Garden Cotopaxi
10.30am Arrive in Machachi. Equipment check.
11am Depart from Machachi to “La Virgen parking lot”
12.30pm Arrive at “La Virgen parking lot”. Start hike to the “Nuevos Horizontes Hut”.
3.30pm Arrive at “Nuevos Horizontes Hut”
6pm Light dinner and rest
Day 2
4.30am Wake up, light breakfast and get ready
5.30am Start ascent
8.30am Arrive at the summit
9am Start descent to “La Virgen parking lot”
12pm Arrive at “La Virgen parking lot” and depart to Machachi
1.30pm Arrive in Machachi
Price per person:
1 pax: $420.00
2 paxs: $275.00
3 paxs: $295.00
Superior service
Private transportation and transfers from and to Machachi
Professional Mountain Guide IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guide) or ASEGUIM (Ecuadorian Association of Mountain Guides) / ratio 2 climbers – 1 guide
Technical mountain equipment (ice axe, harness and helmet)
Personal mountain gear (waterproof trousers, jacket, gloves, sleeping bag, sunglasses and head torch)
Accommodation in Nuevos Horizontes hut
All meals during the hikes and climbs (shown above with B: breakfast and D: dinner)
A registered and fully licensed Tour Operator
National Park fees and permits registration
Permanent communication through walkie-talkie between guides and office in case of an emergency
Common gear: ropes, ice screws, snow pickets, rescue gear
Fully first aid kit (Recommended by NOLS WILDERNESS MEDICINE INSTITUTE)
Rescue or evacuation service in case of any incident in the mountains
Transport from The Secret Garden Cotopaxi to Machachi ($20 for up to 4 people)
Other items (back pack, boots, batteries for the head torch, base layer tops/bottoms)
Single supplement
Meals and beverages at the hotels (lunch, dinner)
Snacks
Personal insurance
Tips
Other non-specified expenses
Book Now
Frequent Questions about Illinaz
Illiniza Norte is considered a moderate to challenging high-altitude climb, but it is one of the most accessible mountains above 5,000 metres in Ecuador. The route involves steady hiking and some light scrambling near the summit, but it does not require advanced technical climbing skills. Many climbers choose Illiniza Norte as their first mountain above 5,000 metres, especially when preparing for higher peaks like Cotopaxi or Chimborazo.
No previous mountaineering experience is required to climb Illiniza Norte, but good physical condition and basic hiking experience are strongly recommended. The climb takes place at high altitude, which can be physically demanding, so proper acclimatisation is important. Staying at high elevation before the climb, such as at The Secret Garden Cotopaxi, helps your body adjust and improves your chances of reaching the summit comfortably.
Illiniza Norte reaches an elevation of approximately 5,126 metres above sea level. The hike from the parking area to the Nuevos Horizontes Refuge usually takes around three hours, and the final ascent from the refuge to the summit typically takes another three hours. The full climb can be completed in one or two days, depending on the itinerary and the climber’s acclimatisation level.
Weather conditions on Illiniza Norte can change quickly, so proper mountain clothing is essential. Climbers should wear warm layers, a waterproof jacket, hiking pants, gloves, and a hat. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are required due to rocky terrain near the summit. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important because of strong sunlight at high altitude. Being properly equipped makes the climb safer and more comfortable.
Weather conditions on Illiniza Norte can change quickly, so proper mountain clothing is essential. Climbers should wear warm layers, a waterproof jacket, hiking pants, gloves, and a hat. Sturdy hiking boots with good grip are required due to rocky terrain near the summit. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also important because of strong sunlight at high altitude. Being properly equipped makes the climb safer and more comfortable.
Most climbers benefit from spending at least one or two days at altitude before attempting Illiniza Norte. Staying at locations such as The Secret Garden Cotopaxi, which sits at approximately 3,500 metres above sea level, helps the body adjust naturally to thinner air. Proper acclimatisation reduces fatigue, improves performance during the climb, and significantly increases the chances of reaching the summit safely and comfortably.
Yes, Illiniza Norte is widely considered one of the best preparation climbs for higher peaks in Ecuador such as Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, or Cayambe. Reaching a summit above 5,000 metres allows climbers to experience real high-altitude conditions, test their physical endurance, and build confidence before attempting more demanding mountains. Many guides recommend Illiniza Norte as a training climb because it combines altitude, hiking, and light scrambling without requiring advanced technical skills.
If you have any other questions about Quito, transportation, tours, safety, or what to do during your stay, our team at Quito Garden is 100% prepared to help you. We’re happy to provide personalized recommendations and make sure your experience in Quito is smooth, safe, and unforgettable. Just reach out — we’re here for you.