FREQUENT QUESTIONS
I don’t have upper body strength; will I be able to climb?
Yes you will, this is the number one misconception about rock climbing. The popular believe is that climbing is puling yourself up with your arms, but the truth is it that you are physically able to climb many walls around the world without ever being able to do one single pull up. For most beginners, a twitch in their body position and a dash of trust in their mental game are usually the keys to unlock higher grades.
Rock climbing has different grades of difficulty, and each grade higher requires to up your game in full body strength and balance, power and endurance, sharp problem solving, mental strength and focus, and that is the beauty of the sport, you grow with it and the only requirement to start is to dare.
How big is the group?
This trip will run with a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 8. The guest to guide ratio in Rock climbing specific activities will be 3 to 1. Please note, if there are not 2 people booked the trip may be rearranged or cancelled.
What travel insurance do you recommend?
World Nomads is a highly rated travel insurance option for adventure travelers.
Though not an insurance company, Global Rescue is another good option, especially for adventure travelers heading off the beaten path. Recommended by National Geographic, Global Rescue offers membership options that can include healthcare coverage. One of its defining factors is the worldwide field rescue and security rescue included in their travel memberships.
We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book the trip, just to cover you for any last minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot; and injuries do happen!
How fit or skilled do I need to be?
You do not need any rock climbing or technical experience. If you are a first timer, your guide will prepare you to get familiar with the gear and give you full instructions throughout the day so you can enjoy with scalableThe climbs will be decided and suited to accommodate different levels. You’ll just need reasonable levels of fitness for the active portions.
What is cliff Camping?
In short, it is how Yosemite’s infamous Dawn Wall of El Capitan was conquered.
It all started when climbers having to spend multiple nights on a wall to scale new record heights, figured out they could pinch camping cots from bunkhouses and use those for their ascents of El Capitan.
Modern portaledges have given climbers the privilege of the best sunrises waking up nested hundreds of feet off the ground on a sheer rock face in the middle of the most remote and inspiring landscapes.
Now we extend that opportunity to you, we believe that sharing this experience with people, can only contribute to have a bigger appreciation for the world we live in. You just need to have a sense of adventure and a head for heights! We take care of the rest.
How much should I tip
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. As a guideline consider $$ per person per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
How will I acclimatize to the altitude?
Given time, your body can adapt to the decrease in oxygen molecules at a specific altitude. This process generally takes 1-3 days at that altitude.
The itinerary is design in high/low interpolations of altitude to promote faster adaptation; combined with optimal hydration and nourishment.
Supplemental oxygen bottles and coca tea can also be used to boost your performance in the thin mountainy air.
Can I travel solo?
Sure can! Over 50% of our travelers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
What flights should I book?
Start Point
We recommend to book a flight arriving in the afternoon, so you can have time to rest before briefing, and to feel fresh for the next day.
If your only flight option arrives around midnight we recommend to arrive one night earlier, as a win you’ll have time to visit Quito a UNESCO Heritage of Mankind.
Finish Point
You'll return to Quito on the final day of the trek and be dropped off at your hotel. It's best to book flights for the following day.