The first part of the climb is a mixture of boulders, rocks, snow and ice, until we reach the large rock formation of El Castillo (5350 m. / 17.553 ft.) From here we continue over the glaciated ridge. The slopes have an average steepness of 30 – 40 degrees, with some icy sections of 45 degrees. After 7 – 8 hours we reach the Veintimillia Summit (6227 m. / 20.429 ft.) With good snow conditions, sufficient time, and if you still have enough energy, you can continue for 1 more hour across a challenging field with penitents (ice towers) to the Whymper summit (6263 m. / 20.548 ft.) The descent will take 3 – 4 hours. From the Carrel refuge transfer back to Riobamba.