El Altar Trekking Tours

El Altar is a collapsed ancient volcano in Ecuador's Sangay National Park offering one of the Andes' most stunning and remote trekking experiences. At 5,319 meters (17,451 feet), its highest peak El Obispo (The Bishop) is considered Ecuador's crown jewel of technical climbing. What makes El Altar truly special is the complete solitude—you'll rarely encounter other visitors, allowing for days of total disconnection from the modern world. The trek's ultimate reward is the breathtaking Laguna Amarilla (Yellow Lake/Crater Lake)—a surreal turquoise-green lagoon surrounded by nine dramatic volcanic peaks arranged in a reverse C-shape, towering glaciers, and misty clouds. The journey takes you through untouched landscapes with expansive mountain views, snowcapped peaks, countless waterfalls cascading down mountainsides, and lush valleys. This is a must-do for passionate mountain hikers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures in one of Ecuador's most pristine wilderness areas.

The El Altar trek is physically demanding and recommended for fit, experienced hikers with proper acclimatization. The journey involves 7+ hours of trekking on Day 1 at high altitudes (starting at 3,070m and reaching 4,000m+ at the refuge), navigating steep, extremely muddy trails that can be slippery and challenging, crossing marshy grasslands and small creeks, and scaling a steep, slippery wall on the final approach to Crater Lake. Weather conditions are highly unpredictable—expect rain, fog, freezing temperatures, and dense clouds that can change rapidly due to the volcano's proximity to the rainforest. The mud is the biggest challenge—churned up by horses, the trail features everything from wet dirt to deep sludge, requiring waterproof boots and careful footing to avoid falls. While reaching the summit of El Altar is extremely difficult (suitable only for experienced professional climbers with technical skills), the trek to Crater Lake is achievable for any fit mountain hiker willing to embrace challenging conditions. Acclimatize with other hikes before attempting El Altar to handle the altitude safely.

The standard El Altar trek to Crater Lake takes 3 days/2 nights: Day 1 involves 7-8 hours of challenging uphill trekking from Hacienda Releche (3,070m) through steep, muddy trails to reach Refuge Collanes at approximately 4,000m elevation. Day 2 features 4-6 hours round-trip from the refuge across marshy altiplano grasslands and up a steep, slippery wall to reach Laguna Amarilla, where you'll spend 30-60 minutes soaking in the spectacular views before returning to the refuge. Day 3 is the descent back to the hacienda (4-5 hours)—faster and easier than the ascent, especially with clearer weather. For summit attempts of El Obispo, plan at least 7-10 days to allow proper acclimatization, navigate complex technical routes, and account for weather windows—this requires experienced climbing skills, technical equipment, and professional guides. The 3-day Crater Lake trek is the most popular option for fit hikers wanting to experience El Altar's beauty without extreme mountaineering.

December is the optimal month for El Altar trekking, as it's Ecuador's driest period, offering the best chance for clear skies, manageable trail conditions, and spectacular views of the volcanic peaks and crater lake. Due to El Altar's proximity to the Amazon rainforest, weather is highly unpredictable year-round—conditions can change rapidly with rain, fog, and dense clouds common even during "dry" season. Avoid the wettest months (March-May and October-November) when trails become extremely muddy and dangerous, visibility is poor, and the risk of hypothermia increases significantly. That said, some trekkers successfully complete the journey during other months—just prepare for challenging conditions, pack proper waterproof gear, and embrace the adventure regardless of weather. The refuge is policed only one day per week, so timing can affect whether you need certified guides (now required by Ecuadorian law for multi-day national park hikes, though enforcement varies). December offers your best combination of weather, trail conditions, and unforgettable mountain scenery.

Technically yes—Ecuadorian law requires certified guides for all multi-day hikes in national parks including Sangay National Park where El Altar is located. This regulation was implemented after numerous hikers got lost or died in remote areas. However, enforcement is inconsistent—the refuge area is policed only one day per week, and many independent trekkers still complete the journey unguided. Guides cost $50-80 USD per day, which can be prohibitive for budget travelers. We strongly recommend hiring guides despite the cost for several reasons: the trailhead at a small private ranch is extremely difficult to find—hidden from the main road with incomplete signage and a nearby water dam as the only landmark; guides provide invaluable knowledge about local flora, wildlife, weather patterns, and safe routes; they enhance comfort and safety on challenging, remote trails; and supporting local guide services benefits Ecuadorian communities. If trekking independently, ensure you have excellent navigation skills, GPS devices with downloaded maps, emergency communication, and inform someone of your detailed itinerary. For summit attempts, professional guides are absolutely essential—the technical climbing is extremely dangerous without expert leadership.

Riobamba is the closest city and base for El Altar treks, located 6 hours south of Quito by bus. From Riobamba, getting to the trailhead requires careful navigation: take a taxi or private van for the 1-hour drive through mountains to Hacienda Releche, the official starting point in Sangay National Park where you must register before beginning. The trailhead is notoriously difficult to find independently—it's at a small, private ranch hidden from the main road with a nearby water dam as the best landmark, and roadside signs are incomplete and often won't lead you directly there. Hiring transportation through your guide service or hotel in Riobamba is highly recommended to avoid getting lost. Most organized tours include transportation from Riobamba to the trailhead and back. From Quito: Take a bus to Riobamba (6 hours, frequent departures), spend a night acclimatizing, then arrange onward transport to Hacienda Releche the next morning. Solo travelers: Join tour groups in Riobamba or hire private guides who handle all logistics including transportation, making the journey significantly easier.

El Altar's nine prominent peaks are organized in a dramatic reverse C-shape around the crater. Starting with the highest point in the south and working counterclockwise, the summits are: El Obispo (5,319m/17,451ft—the highest and most popular), Monja Grande, Monja Chica, Tabernáculo, Fraile Oriental, Fraile Beato, Fraile Central, Fraile Grande, and Canónigo. The names translate to religious titles (The Bishop, The Great Nun, The Small Nun, The Tabernacle, and various Friars), reflecting the Spanish colonial influence on Ecuadorian geography. El Obispo is the most accessible peak and offers some of Ecuador's best technical climbing in favorable weather conditions, with three main routes to the summit depending on snow conditions. Each peak presents unique challenges and rewards for experienced mountaineers. From Crater Lake, you'll have spectacular views of all nine peaks towering around you, creating an amphitheater of snow-capped volcanic summits—one of the Andes' most impressive mountain panoramas.

Essential gear includes: Waterproof rubber boots (absolutely critical—required for the extremely muddy trails; regular hiking boots work only for the final section from refuge to Crater Lake); warm, waterproof layered clothing (fleece, down jacket, rain jacket and pants—expect freezing temperatures and constant rain); waterproof gloves, warm socks, and beanie/cap for cold, wet conditions; sturdy, waterproof backpack (25-40L for personal items if horses carry main gear, or 60L+ if carrying everything); sleeping bag rated to 0°C/-15°C (refuge provides bunks but no bedding); headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries (no electricity at refuge); trekking poles for stability on steep, slippery terrain; high SPF sunscreen and lip balm (intense UV at altitude); water bottle or hydration system (1-2L capacity); GPS device or compass with topographic maps downloaded offline; personal first aid kit with altitude sickness medication, blister treatment, and any prescription medications; whistle for emergencies; contact lenses instead of eyeglasses if possible (glasses fog constantly in rain); and snacks/energy food for long trekking days. Pack light but don't skimp on weather protection—conditions can be brutal.

The trail features diverse and challenging terrain. Day 1 ascent begins on a dirt track following a gully through thin tree lines and fields with grazing cows and flowers, then climbs steeply for 2 hours up the hillside before transitioning to less steep but extremely muddy sections—the mud is the trail's defining characteristic, churned up by horses into everything from wet dirt to knee-deep sludge. You'll wade through countless muddy patches trying to avoid falls (not always successful). The landscape transitions from green valleys to higher altitude terrain with spectacular views back down the valley. Day 2 to Crater Lake crosses vast marshy altiplano grasslands at ~4,000m elevation with dozens of waterfalls cascading down surrounding mountains, small creek crossings, and rocky meadows before the final steep wall climb—slippery, challenging, and made harder by rain and altitude. Day 3 descent is faster and easier, especially with drier conditions. Throughout the trek, expect 7+ hours daily of hiking through mud, across streams, over rocky ground, and up steep grades—all at high altitude where breathing is labored and every step requires effort.

The El Altar trek showcases incredible Andean biodiversity and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Flora includes over a dozen species of colorful wildflowers growing even at high altitudes—perfect for nature photography during breaks. The landscape transitions from lush green valleys with grazing livestock and agricultural fields to sparse high-altitude grasslands, marshy meadows, and finally barren volcanic terrain near the crater. Waterfalls are everywhere—dozens cascade down mountainsides creating a constant soothing soundtrack to your hike. Wildlife may include Andean birds, occasional livestock (cows with large horns sometimes share the trail), and horses used for carrying equipment. The ultimate scenic reward is Laguna Amarilla—the stunning turquoise-green crater lake surrounded by nine towering snow-capped volcanic peaks, massive glaciers, and swirling mist creating an otherworldly, surreal beauty. The 360-degree mountain panoramas throughout the trek are breathtaking, with glimpses of El Altar's white peaks appearing and disappearing through clouds. On clear days, the views stretch across endless Andean ridges—truly one of Ecuador's most spectacular and photogenic trekking destinations.

El Altar involves significant altitude that affects most trekkers. Starting elevation at Hacienda Releche is 3,070m (10,072ft), Refuge Collanes sits at approximately 4,000m (13,123ft), and Crater Lake reaches about 4,200-4,300m (13,780-14,100ft). At these elevations, expect reduced oxygen levels causing shortness of breath, fatigue, headaches, and slower pace—even fit hikers struggle, especially on Day 1's long ascent. Proper acclimatization is essential: spend 2-3 days in Quito (2,850m) before heading to Riobamba; complete 1-2 acclimatization hikes at similar or higher elevations (Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, or other Ecuadorian peaks) in the days before El Altar; ascend gradually—the 3-day itinerary helps by spending nights at intermediate elevation before reaching maximum heights; stay hydrated (drink 3-4 liters daily); avoid alcohol before and during the trek; and listen to your body—descend immediately if experiencing severe altitude sickness symptoms (severe headache, nausea, confusion, difficulty breathing). The final wall climb to Crater Lake is particularly challenging due to altitude, steep grade, and thin air—take frequent breaks and don't rush.

No, El Altar is not recommended for beginners. This trek requires significant hiking experience, strong physical fitness, and comfort with challenging conditions. Ideal candidates have completed multiple multi-day backpacking trips, hiked extensively at high altitudes (3,000m+), navigated difficult terrain including mud and steep ascents, and possess mental toughness to handle discomfort, unpredictable weather, and long days without giving up. Beginners should start with easier Ecuadorian treks like Quilotoa Loop, Cotopaxi day hikes, or shorter trails in Cajas National Park to build experience before attempting El Altar. That said, "beginner mountaineers" can succeed if they're fit, properly acclimatized, hiking with experienced guides, and have realistic expectations about the challenges. The trek to Crater Lake doesn't require technical climbing skills—just endurance, determination, and ability to handle adverse conditions. Absolutely avoid El Altar if: you have no high-altitude hiking experience, limited fitness, expectation of comfort, or health issues that altitude could exacerbate. For summit attempts, only experienced technical climbers with proper training and equipment should attempt—it's one of Ecuador's most difficult and dangerous climbs.