
Ruta del Hielero
Trek through stunning Andean landscapes with breathtaking views of Chimborazo, a free adventure for nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for volcano views

Ruta del Hielero
Best Time
Best light for volcano views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Trek through stunning Andean landscapes with breathtaking views of Chimborazo, a free adventure for nature lovers.
"A beautiful, adrenaline-filled experience with views of Ecuador's largest volcano, Chimborazo."

Layer Up for the Cold
High altitude means chilly temps! Pack warm layers, a hat, and gloves for a comfortable trek. ☁️
Sturdy Footwear is Essential
The 'Ruta del Hielero' involves hiking. Wear good hiking boots for grip and support on the trails. :athletic_shoe:

Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Chimborazo's Majestic View
High points along the route
Gaze upon Ecuador's largest volcano, Chimborazo, a truly awe-inspiring sight. The panoramic views are unforgettable.

Encountering Giant Deer
Open meadows and trails
With a bit of luck, you might spot the region's magnificent giant deer in their natural habitat. A truly wild encounter.

The Iceman's Route Trek
The entire trail system
Experience an adrenaline-filled, cold trekking adventure on this well-maintained yet invigorating route.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill
Respect the Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Layer Up for the Cold
High altitude means chilly temps! Pack warm layers, a hat, and gloves for a comfortable trek. ☁️
Sturdy Footwear is Essential
The 'Ruta del Hielero' involves hiking. Wear good hiking boots for grip and support on the trails. :athletic_shoe:
No Dogs Allowed
To protect local wildlife, leave your furry friends at home. This is a pristine natural area. :noentrysign:
Free Entry!
Enjoy this incredible natural beauty without any admission fees. A budget-friendly adventure! :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Layer Up for the Cold
High altitude means chilly temps! Pack warm layers, a hat, and gloves for a comfortable trek. ☁️
Sturdy Footwear is Essential
The 'Ruta del Hielero' involves hiking. Wear good hiking boots for grip and support on the trails. :athletic_shoe:
No Dogs Allowed
To protect local wildlife, leave your furry friends at home. This is a pristine natural area. :noentrysign:
Free Entry!
Enjoy this incredible natural beauty without any admission fees. A budget-friendly adventure! :moneywithwings:
Community Parking
Park at community-maintained lots in Urbina for easy access to the route. 🚗
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the 'Ruta del Hielero' for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the awe-inspiring views of Chimborazo and the chance to spot giant deer. The free entry and accessible parking in Urbina are significant pluses. However, the cold, high-altitude conditions require proper preparation, and the strict no-dog policy is important for conservation.
"We have one of the best places on the planet for trekking, hiking with beautiful landscapes, and with a bit of luck, spotting enormous deer. Dogs are not recommended, as this is a healthy area and attacks on local animals could occur. And it's free."
Francisco Larrea
"For those who love the cold, it's a beautiful, adrenaline-filled experience, and you can also enjoy a view of Ecuador's largest volcano, Chimborazo."
CRISS Pérez
"Easily accessible from the Urbina area, with a well-maintained but somewhat narrow road; there are parking lots maintained by community residents at the meeting point along the Iceman's Route."
David Suárez Villavicencio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 'Ruta del Hielero' is easily accessible from the Urbina area. Look for community-resident maintained parking lots along the Iceman's Route. The road is well-maintained but can be narrow.
Information on direct public transport is limited, but many visitors access it via private vehicles or tours from nearby towns. It's recommended to check local transport options from Ambato or Riobamba.
Driving to the Urbina area and utilizing the community parking is the most straightforward method. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for potentially narrow mountain roads.
Yes, the road is accessible by car, leading to parking areas managed by local residents near the meeting point for the Iceman's Route.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, guided tours are common for popular trekking routes in Ecuador. Inquire locally or with tour operators in Ambato or Riobamba for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the 'Ruta del Hielero' is a free natural attraction. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and the view of Chimborazo without any admission cost.
As a natural trekking route, there are no official operating hours. Visitors can typically access it during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.
No booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
No permits are generally required for general trekking on the 'Ruta del Hielero'. It's an open natural area.
There isn't a formal visitor center mentioned, but community residents often manage parking areas and may offer local information.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The difficulty can vary depending on the chosen path, but it's generally considered a moderate trekking experience. The altitude can add to the challenge.
Expect beautiful landscapes with stunning views of Chimborazo, open meadows, and a pristine natural environment. You might also spot unique wildlife.
Dogs are not recommended on the 'Ruta del Hielero' to protect the local healthy ecosystem and its animals. Attacks on local animals could occur.
Daytime offers the best visibility for enjoying the beautiful landscapes and the majestic view of Chimborazo. Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light.
Specific facilities like restrooms are not widely mentioned. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your trek and be prepared for a natural setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of Chimborazo are a prime subject. Also, look for opportunities to photograph the unique flora and fauna, especially if you spot giant deer.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Midday provides clear views of the volcano but can have harsh shadows.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. However, a zoom lens can be helpful if you hope to capture wildlife from a distance. :camerawithflash:
Regulations regarding drone usage in natural parks and protected areas can vary. It's best to check local guidelines before flying a drone.
Wear warm, layered clothing suitable for the cold. Bright colors can stand out against the natural landscape, but neutral tones also blend well.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit