Hiking to the Chimborazo Volcano Ice Mine
Hiking to the Chimborazo Volcano Ice Mine
At 7 am, we'll pick you up from your hotel in Riobamba and travel to the village of Cuatro Esquinas. This municipality, which is located at an altitude of 14,271 feet (4,350 metres), will be the starting point for our hike to the ice mine of the Chimborazo Volcano.
During our 6-mile (10-kilometre) hike, we'll discover the plantlife endemic to this part of Ecuador and admire the llamas, alpacas and vicuñas that populate these aris valleys of the Andes. We'll also share lots of fun facts about these animals as we spot them, such as the fact that vicuñas' incisors grow at a continuous rate...
We'll then arrive at the Chimborazo ice mine, a beautiful and historic place that's provided work for the local ice workers for centuries. These workers extracted the ice blocks which went on to be sold.
While we're here, we'll take a break and refuel with a picnic lunch that'll include a sandwich, a piece of fruit and juice. It'll then be time to set off on our return journey and drop you off at your hotel in Riobamba for 4:30 pm.
Ice Extraction
If you choose this option, you'll attend a demonstration of ice being extracted by an industry expert. We'll discover what this business consisted of and how the locals used to walk for hours to sell the product in the local area.
More Information
Duration
9h 30m.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English and Spanish.
Included
Hotel pickup and drop off
Transport by minibus
English–speaking guide
Picnic lunch
Ice extraction demonstration (optional)
When to book?
You can book up until 48 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- Printed material is avoided.
- No single-use plastics are used.
- The indigenous community participates in the management of the activity.
- The activity helps the conservation of biodiversity.
- The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
- The activity helps vulnerable groups.
- No printing of documentation required.
- Promotes local employment.
- Has a gender equality policy.
- Has a carbon footprint offset policy.
Provider
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Chimborazo Tours
Corporate name: CHIMBORAZO TOURS OPERADOR A DE TURISMO CTUR CIA LTDA
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - Your safety is our priority. Civitatis works with certified providers for reliable and safe adventures. More information
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 2 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
