El Altar Trek
Ecuador · South America · Multi-day trek · score 61/100
At a glance
| Countries | Ecuador |
|---|---|
| Continent | South America |
| Region | Chimborazo Province (Sangay NP) |
| Type | Multi-day trek |
| Length | 30 km |
| Typical duration | 3 days |
| Difficulty | 4/5 (Hard) |
| Max altitude | 4300 m |
| Best season | Dec-Feb best |
| Start | Hacienda Releche (Candelaria) |
| End | Laguna Amarilla / Collanes valley (return) |
| Permit / guide | Sangay NP entry; guide recommended |
| Special gear | waterproof boots essential (extreme mud); refuge or camping gear |
Score
61/100
Nine jagged glacial peaks ring a hidden turquoise crater lake; Ecuador's most dramatic trek
How the score works: scoring method. Information confidence: medium.
Notes
Standard crater-lake trek 3 days/2 nights; summit of El Obispo is a separate technical climb
Sources
Information compiled from public sources, as of October 19, 2026. Trail conditions, permits and closures change: verify with local authorities before you go.
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