I'm going to spend 3 months in Equador, Peru and Bolivia this summer. I had the same logistical challenges, where to start etc. I researched hundreds of alternatives, flying in to one country and flying out of another country (from Europe). But what I found out was that this approach was much more expensive than to just order a simple return flight to Peru. Secondly, flying locally between the 3 countries on one-way tickets with Lan Peru or Taca is as expensive as return tickets. Gambling on one-way tickets you also risk your chances of boarding the plane, getting visa etc. So I decided to just fly into Lima, which is well connected to both Equador and Bolivia.
I'm arriving Lima June 16 (from Europe). Same day I got a return flight from Lima to Quito (Taka Airlines, a bit expensive 450 USD return). I'm planning to climb the highest peaks of Equador during June 17 to July 3. I have nothing pre-arranged, doing it all independently, just grabbing a local bus or taxi to the trailheads. If someone wants to join on Catopaxi, Chimborazo etc then get in touch. Otherwise I'm fine to solo, but it would be nice with someone to share transportation costs and rope up on the glacier
July 3, I'm flying back to Lima, heading straight to Huaraz. I'm looking forward to the recommended Cruz del Sur bus ride
. My main goal is Huascaran. I probably don't want to solo this giant (extreme crevasse risks), so if I don't get in touch with other independent climbers, I'm going to hire a guide in Huaraz. I just hope the canalete is in fine conditions this year.
Planning to spend entire July in Peru, before I leave for Bolivia and more 6000 meters peaks in August. I have no flights to Bolivia yet, not sure if I go overland or fly from Peru...
My return flight from Peru to Norway is Sep 17, so I got plenty of time.
If someone wants to join for a 6000m climb, just get in touch. I've done almost 500 ascents around the world, and climbed 12 peaks more than 6000 meters. Never had AMS before...
Cheers!
Lyngve Skrede, Norway
http://distantpeak.blogspot.com