(5126 masl)
The peak Iliniza Norte or Tioniza is one of the two peaks of the potentially active stratovolcano Iliniza. The Iliniza is generally used as an acclimatization to later ascend to higher peaks such as the Chimborazo el Cotopaxi or the Cayambe.
The peak of Iliniza Norte does not have perpetual ice so it does not require a technical level to reach its peak. However, some parts have dangerous passages and loose sand and rock. Be very careful especially when there is ice. Climatic conditions can vary suddenly so it is recommended to climb only one of the two peaks. Some experienced mountaineers perform the two peaks (North and South) on the same day.
TO CLIMB NORTH ILINIZA VOLCANO:
To go up to Iliniza Norte it is necessary to go in a 4WD from Chaupi to the parking lot called La Virgen (3950 masl) and then walk for three hours to the Nuevo Horizons refuge (4700 masl). Then climb for 4 hours towards the summit. Most people and tours do it in two days. The first day they arrive at the shelter and on the morning of the second day they ascend to the summit. However, there is like doing it in a single day starting early and a good physical level.
From Chaupi rent a taxi-walk ($ 15, 30 min) to the parking lot called La Virgen (3950 masl). You can negotiate for the taxi to pick you up in the afternoon or the next day, however, just pay one way and when you return to pick them up pay the other. Otherwise, most taxi drivers will not return.
The checkpoint and entrance is 10 minutes from the town of Chaupi by a third order road. it is necessary to register. Open from 8am to 5pm. Then the trip continues with the same truck for 20 more minutes to the parking lot called La Virgen (3950 masl). From the Virgin there is 3.5 km of climb on foot that takes about 3 hours to the New Horizons refuge (4700msnm) on the slopes of the Ilinizas. The last kilometer of the walk is the most demanding with a steep slope.
To get to Chaupi you can take a bus from Machachi ($ 0.35, 40 min). There are buses every 30 minutes from 5:30 to 8:00.
To get to Machachi you can take a bus from Quito (La Marín Station) ($ 0.40, 45 min).
Cascada río Pita Friday 21 February 2025
Tourism
