Altar Trek
Eco-Tourism in Ecuador

Trek El Altar

from $375.00

Trek El Altar in Ecuador – Sangay National Park Hiking Adventure

Trek AltarEl Altar is one of the most spectacular trekking destinations in Ecuador and one of the hidden gems of the Andes Mountains. Located within Sangay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, El Altar is an extinct volcano surrounded by multicolored lagoons, glacial valleys, towering waterfalls, and dramatic volcanic peaks.

More than 500 years ago, a massive eruption destroyed the original summit of El Altar, creating its famous cathedral-like formation of nine jagged peaks surrounding a crater lake. Today, this incredible landscape offers one of the most scenic trekking experiences in South America and is considered one of the best hiking adventures in Ecuador.

Trekking in El Altar & Sangay National Park

The El Altar trek takes hikers deep into remote Andean wilderness landscapes filled with glaciers, cloud forests, volcanic valleys, and pristine mountain lakes. The most popular routes include the famous trek to the Yellow Lagoon, located inside the volcanic crater, as well as multi-day expeditions through the spectacular lagoons of El Altar.

The highest sections of the trek reach approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 ft) beneath the glacial peaks of the volcano, offering panoramic views of Chimborazo, Sangay Volcano, and the surrounding Ecuadorian Andes.

This trek is recommended for experienced hikers and adventure travelers due to the altitude, changing mountain weather, and challenging terrain found within Sangay National Park.

Lagoons of El Altar

One of the highlights of the multi-day El Altar expedition is exploring the breathtaking glacial lagoons hidden within the valleys of the volcano. Along the route, hikers may visit:

  • Star Lake
  • Green Lagoon
  • Mandur Lagoon
  • Blue Lagoon
  • End of the World Lake

Each lagoon features unique colors created by minerals, glacier runoff, and volcanic formations, making El Altar one of the most photogenic trekking destinations in Ecuador.

Accommodation & Trekking Experience

Depending on the route selected, accommodations include mountain refuges near the Yellow Lagoon or exclusive camping expeditions deep within the wilderness areas of Sangay National Park. Camping treks provide a true remote adventure experience surrounded by untouched Andean landscapes and are best suited for experienced trekkers comfortable with high-altitude outdoor conditions.

Weather in El Altar can change rapidly, making proper equipment and experienced local guides essential for a safe and enjoyable expedition.

Why Trek El Altar?

  • One of the best trekking adventures in Ecuador
  • Explore Sangay National Park and remote Andean landscapes
  • Visit stunning glacial lagoons and waterfalls
  • Trek beneath the dramatic peaks of El Altar volcano
  • High-altitude hiking through volcanic valleys and glaciers
  • Ideal for photographers, hikers, and adventure travelers
  • Authentic wilderness and camping experience in the Andes

At Ecuador Eco Adventure, we specialize in guided trekking expeditions, mountaineering, and adventure travel throughout Ecuador, offering experienced local guides, logistical support, and unforgettable outdoor experiences in the Andes.

Trek Prices

  • 2 Days: $225 USD
  • 3 Days: $375 USD
  • 4 Days: $475 USD

Once a month we run a special excursion at 50% off check confirmed dates here

Trekking El Altar

This trek is als a great option for aclimatization prior climbing Cotopaxi or Chimborazo.

    • Reviews 0 Reviews
      0/5
    • Vacation Style Holiday Type
      • Camping
      • Hiking
      • Mountain
      • Rural
      • Tent
      • Wildlife
      Budget
    • Activity Level Moderate Hike
      4/8
    • Group Size Small Group
      6
    All about the Trek El Altar.

    Tour made on Request with at least 2 climbers

    Altar Trek El Altar

    The tour package inclusions and exclusions at a glance
    What is included in this tour?Items that are included in the cost of tour price.
    • Transport from Riobamba to Sangay National Park and back
    • Camping Equipment including  sleeping bags, sleeping mats
    • Carrying mules
    • National Park permits
    • Guides
    • All food including meals for breakfast lunch and dinner and snacks (Please tell us if you are a vegetarian)
    What is not included in this tour?Items that are not included in the cost of tour price.
    • Travel insurance and other emergencies
    • Tips
    1. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    2. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    3. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    4. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    5. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    6. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    7. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    8. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    9. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    10. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    11. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    12. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    13. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    14. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    15. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    16. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    17. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    18. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    19. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    20. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    21. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    22. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    23. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    24. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    25. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    26. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    27. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    28. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    29. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    30. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    31. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    32. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    33. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    34. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    35. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    36. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    37. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    38. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    39. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    40. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    41. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    42. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    43. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    44. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    45. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    46. Day1 Altar

      We walk up the valley that was created by a glacier millions of years ago with a giant 200 meter waterfall and the peaks of El Altar in the distance.

    47. Day2 Altar

      We leave the tents at the campsite and climb up to 4,500 meters and explore the many waterfalls and five multicoloured lagoons (the star lagoon, the mandur lagoon, blue lagoon, black lagoon, and green lagoon) underneath the 5,319m (17,451 ft) peak of El Altar.

    48. Day3 Riobamba

      We go back down the valley on a plateau that has an amazing view of Mount Chimborazo and follow the river to the entrance of Sangay National Park where we return to Riobamba

    Mountain Refuge

    Altar Refuge