holiday Pichincha-Chimborazo Battle is a combination that few travelers take advantage of—and those who do discover it often repeat. Three days in May to connect the history of Ecuadorian independence with the country's highest volcano: two experiences that together tell a complete story of Andean Ecuador.
In 2026, the holiday falls on Monday, May 25, creating a three-day weekend starting on Saturday the 23rd. Enough time to climb Chimborazo, explore the historic center of Riobamba, and relax at a colonial hacienda at the foot of the volcano.
This guide has the complete itinerary to make the most of each of those three days from Hacienda Abraspungo.
Battle of Pichincha-Chimborazo: A story that resonates throughout the territory
The Battle of Pichincha was fought on May 24, 1822, on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano. It was the victory that sealed Ecuador's independence from Spanish rule, led by Marshal Antonio José de Sucre with patriot troops that included fighters from across the Andean region.
The province of Chimborazo played an active role in the wars of independence. Riobamba, as the provincial capital, was the scene of mobilizations and political decisions that were part of the independence process. Therefore, commemorating the Battle of Pichincha in Chimborazo is not just an excuse to travel—it's a way to connect with the history of the territory you're visiting.
The civic parades on May 25th in Riobamba carry that historical weight: marching bands, students, and institutions that commemorate the effort it took to build Ecuador. Seeing them in the historic center—surrounded by colonial architecture from that same era—is an experience unlike anything you'd find in a modern city.
Why Chimborazo is the main attraction of the holiday weekend
The Chimborazo volcano is the centerpiece of any visit to the province during the Battle of Pichincha. At 6,268 meters above sea level, it is the highest volcano in Ecuador and the point on Earth farthest from the planet's center.
May is one of the best months to visit. The transition between the rainy and dry seasons brings clear mornings with good visibility of the glacier and the páramo. Chimborazo in May has a particular light—cooler and more contrasting—that makes the landscape especially striking.
Access to the first refuge, at 4,800 meters above sea level, requires no technical experience or specialized equipment. It is a hike that any traveler with basic physical fitness and appropriate warm clothing can do.
3-day itinerary for the Battle of Pichincha Chimborazo
This plan takes advantage of the May bank holiday weekend from Hacienda Abraspungo, combining history, adventure and relaxation in equal parts.
Day 1 — Saturday 23: Arrival and historic center of Riobamba
Arrival at Hacienda Abraspungo at midday. The first day is planned to settle in at a leisurely pace and make an initial exploration of Riobamba's historic center in the afternoon.
The Cathedral, Maldonado Park, and La Merced Church are all less than 10 minutes from the hacienda. A two-hour walk through the historic center—with its cobblestone streets and colonial facades—is the perfect introduction to the territory of the Battle of Pichincha-Chimborazo.
Dinner at Abraspungo Restaurant featuring Andean cuisine and local ingredients. Early rest for the following day's excursion.
Day 2 — Sunday 24: Chimborazo Volcano and Andean moorland
Departure before 8:00 a.m. towards the Chimborazo Volcano. This is the central day of the Battle of Pichincha-Chimborazo — the one most remembered by those who participate.
From Hacienda Abraspungo, the transfer to the first refuge takes approximately 50 minutes. The hike from the parking lot to the Carrel refuge, at 4,800 meters above sea level, takes between 45 minutes and an hour at a leisurely pace. Along the way, vicuñas grazing among the páramo rocks are one of those unforgettable sights.
Back at the hacienda for lunch, the afternoon can be spent horseback riding through the Cubillines or relaxing in the gardens. The combination of the morning's exertion with the afternoon's tranquility is precisely the balance that makes this holiday special.
Day 3 — Monday 25: Civic parades and return
Monday, May 25th, is the official holiday commemorating the Battle of Pichincha-Chimborazo. In Riobamba, the civic-military parades begin in the morning in the main squares of the historic center.
Enjoy a buffet breakfast at the hacienda, a tour of the parades, and return to your home cities at midday. The Monday holiday allows for a leisurely departure and a rested return.
What to pack for Chimborazo in May
The climb up Pichincha-Chimborazo in May can be cold and unpredictable on the volcano. Here is a basic checklist for the hike to the first refuge:
- Waterproof and warm jacket: the temperature in the Carrel refuge ranges between 0°C and 8°C even on sunny days.
- Hat, gloves, and scarf: the wind on the moor can be intense. A coat for your head and hands makes a real difference.
- Hiking boots: the terrain is uneven volcanic rock. No city shoes.
- Sunscreen factor 50: UV radiation at 4,800 meters above sea level is much more intense than at sea level.
The hacienda's breakfast buffet is the starting point — leaving with a full stomach and well hydrated makes all the difference at altitude.
Hacienda Abraspungo: the perfect base for this holiday
Hacienda Abraspungo's location is ideal for the Pichincha-Chimborazo Battle: 3.5 km from the historic center of Riobamba and less than an hour from the first refuge on Chimborazo. Everything this holiday has to offer is within easy reach without having to change your base.
The 45 rooms feature Andean colonial architecture, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and the tranquility of the Andes. After a day on Chimborazo, returning to the hacienda is exactly what your body needs.
From Abraspungo, guided excursions to Chimborazo are also arranged, including transportation. Please check availability in advance +593 997 683 450.
How to get to Riobamba for the holiday
| City of origin | Estimated time | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Quito | 3 hours | Pan-American Highway South |
| Guayaquil | 3.5 hours | Riobamba–Guayaquil Road |
| Ambato | 45 minutes | Pan-American Highway South |
| Basin | 3 hours | Pan-American Highway North |
Ideally, you should arrive Friday afternoon or early Saturday to make the most of the three days. The hacienda has free parking and direct access from the main road.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Battle of Pichincha and Chimborazo
When is the Pichincha-Chimborazo Battle holiday in 2026?
The official holiday is Monday, May 25, 2026, moved from Sunday the 24th. Added to the weekend, it creates a three-day bridge: Saturday the 23rd, Sunday the 24th and Monday the 25th of May.
What can you do in Chimborazo during the Battle of Pichincha?
The most complete options are: climbing to the first refuge of the Chimborazo Volcano, touring the historic center of Riobamba during the May 25th parades, horseback riding through the Cubillines and resting at Hacienda Abraspungo.
Is it difficult to climb Chimborazo in May?
No. Access to the first refuge does not require technical experience. The hike from the parking lot takes between 45 minutes and an hour. Appropriate warm clothing is necessary, and you should leave before 8:00 AM to take advantage of the morning visibility.
Are there parades in Riobamba on the day of the Battle of Pichincha?
Yes. On May 25th, Riobamba celebrates with civic-military parades in the main squares of the historic center. It is one of the city's most cherished commemorations.
How to book at Hacienda Abraspungo for the Battle of Pichincha Chimborazo?
Contact us via WhatsApp at +593 997 683 450 or by email at [email protected]. We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance.