Wednesday, October 21, 2026 - 4:29 pm PT

Greetings!! 

Today the team woke up early and dawned crampons and ropes for the first time this trip before summiting Illiniza Norte (16,800ft) at 8 am this morning. The weather was beautiful and the summit was another high point for a lot of our climbers. We had an amazing lunch in Machachi where some of our climbers got a taste of magic chocolate, which is hot chocolate with marshmallows and cheese. It was indeed a magical experience. We made our way to Chilcabamba where the team gets to enjoy showers, another delicious meal, and separate rooms. Tomorrow we will make our way to the Jose Ribas Refugio on Cotopaxi.  For now, the team bonds over Monopoly Deal and complimentary ponchos. 

Cheers! 

RMI Guide Mac Nolde