Tungurahua Summit now with a Cross

Quick action was required, organizing a group of 20 people, respective permits of the Ministry of Environment for A) entering the park without a certified guide and B) installing the cross at the summit. Saturday, January 13 was the day: an early approach to the park entrance in 4x4 starting from Baños, all participants well equipped for the ascent, we registered at the park entrance and started the hike at approx. 2.800 m / 9.190 ft straight to the refuge at 3.800 m / 12.470 ft. The administrator of the refuge accompanied us and made a hot tea for us ... it was rather cold, but views still amazing.

The day was clear and the weather looked promising for our activity. Slowly but steadily we headed up the steep, sandy slopes towards Tungurahua Summit. Awarding views compensated for this hard 2.200 m / 7.200 ft in elevation gain up to the summit.

Climbing Tungurahua in only one day is very demanding, due to it's altitude and of course considering the remarkable elevation gain. Total track from entrance to the summit and back sums up approx. 15 km ... making the descend a never ending story :) ... anyway, also for the ascent a good portion of motivation is required, walking up the sandy path, one step forward a half back.

We all made it to the crater, where some of us decided that being also their summit. Weather went bad (not really in terms of what Tungurahua has to offer), fog, a little snow / rain, wind started to make the project a bit more demanding.

30 minutes from the summit - our target of the day ... a smaller group went for this last part, completing the mission, installing a cross at the summit of Tungurahua. Carrying the cross, water & cement as well as other tools.

Mission completed: cross installed, for many of us a first time summit of Tungurahua, for others a repetition after an almost 20 year active period of the mountain. An inspiring and motivating group activity. 

A perfect start into a new year, with many projects, lots of motivation and only good vibs!!!! Want to know more about Banos Trail running? Visit our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BanosTrailRunning/. There are weekly events open for the public, in order to get in touch with the local trail running scene.

Advisory and coaching for mountaineering activities by sponsor Andean Summit Adventure.

Important Notice: as per current legal situation, ascent without certified guides within the national network of Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Environment is prohibited. Nevertheless there are exceptions for local clubs, and controls due to transition period for recertifications etc. are not yet fully enforced. Access to the refuge is free and possible also without guide. Anyway, make sure to ask about current situation, as there are frequently changes.