Description

The hike from Campo Italiano to Collanes Valley takes between 5 and 6 hours and is part of the Circuito del Altar hiking trail, which requires at least 3 days and connects the Bocatoma de Quimiag with Campo Italiano, the Collanes Valley and Hacienda Releche. This section between Campo Italiano and the Collanes Valley gives us fabulous views of the Altar Volcano southern and western faces; although not without presenting us with some challenges, since it's somewhat difficult to follow this little-frequented trail that in some parts almost disappears or is confused with the rocks.

Elevation Table
PlaceElevation
Bocatoma de Quimiag3435m
Campo Italiano4600m
Obispo5315m
Collanes Valley3870m
Hacienda Releche3060m
Riobamba2760m

Photos

Mandur Lagoon

Mandur Lagoon

Obispo peak

Obispo peak

Collanes Valley

Collanes Valley

Flora

How to get

Eastern Mountain Range; 25.3 kilometers in a straight line east of Riobamba; 29km south of Baños de Agua Santa.

  1. Bocatoma de Quimiag Route: This route is used by mountaineers who wish to access the peaks south of Altar, such as the Obispo summit or Monja Grande, or to hike the Circuito del Altar trail, which requires at least 3 days and links Bocatoma de Quimiag with Campo Italiano, the Collanes Valley and Hacienda Releche. To get to Bocatoma de Quimiag, you can start from Riobamba in the direction of Cubijíes, Quimiag, and continue to Bocatoma, where you park the vehicle to begin the hike towards the Italian Camp at the Obispo foot.

BañosCentral South SierraRiobambaSangay National Park