FAQ

What is this thing?

It’s a two-week trail running camp at altitude, with some rock climbing thrown in. We finish by climbing a big, glaciated mountain.

Why is it called Camp Cayambe?

The camp takes place in the foothills of Cayambe, a volcano 5,790m (18,996 ft) tall. At the end of the two weeks you can take advantage of your acclimation by actually climbing Cayambe itself, accompanied by a guide.

Where is this located?

At Punanti Mountain Lodge, situated at 3,600m, very close to the Coca-Cayambe National Park and inside an indigenous community.

How much will this cost?

Including the guided Cayambe climb, we’re expecting a budget of about $1,200 USD per person, exact numbers will depend on how many people express interest.

What does the camp include?

Transfers from and to Quito airport, two nights at a Quito hotel, room and board at Punanti, lunches, local transportation, guiding at Punanti, three climbing sessions, the Cusin / Imbabura day and the guided Cayambe climb (including the refuge night) - see the Budget for the breakdown. Not included: flights, the camping night, hot springs entry, meals in Quito / at camp / at the refuge, and BBQs. Snacks and beverages at the lodge are extra but reasonably priced. Rental of mountaineering equipment (if required) would be extra but also very reasonably priced.

Is Ecuador safe?

Rather than try to give a definitive answer, it’s best to point out that 1,357,873 people visited Ecuador in 2025, most of them without issue. There are travel advisories to pay attention to for parts of Ecuador, but we would not really venture there as part of this trip. That being said, all travel involves some risk, as do all mountains, and taking appropriate precautions is sensible. The camp includes transfer arrangements (with a known driver from the local rural community where Punanti is located) to and from Quito airport. Once at Punanti the biggest hazard are the llamas, which can be vicious!

What prior experience is required?

For the trail running part, you should be a fit trail / mountain runner to be able to sustain effort at about 100-130 km / week. Pace is less important, as we will likely have multiple pace groups every day.

Mountaineering experience would be very useful for the Cayambe climb. The intention is to use the acclimation built up during the two weeks to climb some Ecuadorian mountains. Cayambe is an obvious one, since we will spend two weeks in the nearby foothills. If this is your first time with crampons and ice axe, it would make sense to talk to our guides about your level of comfort and additional options.

Can I stay longer to climb more mountains?

Yes, absolutely, this is very much the intent of the camp. You could for instance consider climbing Cotopaxi or Chimborazo, or even Antisana or Illiniza Sur if you’re comfortable with technical climbs. We can help find guides who could facilitate these climbs, although these would be separate from the camp itself.

How do I sign up?

First things first, fill out the Expression of Interest form. An EOI simply confirms that, in principle, you’d be able to dedicate enough time and resources to getting to Ecuador and to Punanti. If we have enough EOIs then we will follow up with a firm price from Punanti Hostel, which will arrange all details once in Ecuador. You can change your mind before paying the 50% deposit, which would be due on 18 February. After that the deposit would be non-refundable.

What is the standard of accommodation?

Take a look at the Punanti Lodge accommodation pictures. It’s a typical “mountain lodge” setup with a bunkroom and communal dining / lounging areas. The accommodation is fully catered, so no need to worry about cooking or buying ingredients.