Cotopaxi Climbing

Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Rises majestically above the Central Andean Cordilleras, The name comes from ancient languages that mean “The Neck of the Moon” with an almost perfect cone shape. Reaching the top of this volcano is a must for every mountaineer. Technically not a difficult mountain, you don’t need much experience but a good physical condition and proper acclimatization will help for a successful climb.

From the summit, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Andes landscape, with a clear view, you can see all of the snow-capped mountains of Ecuador. Glancing into the crater with a diameter of 800 m, from which sulfur steam is still flowing.

DURATION	2 Days – 1 Night ( 1 Day extra of Acclimatization is possible)
LEVEL OF ACTIVITY	Prepared
GEAR	Clothes for moderate Cold weather, Comfortable athletic clothing for trekking, hiking boots, hat, jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses,
COST	$ 350 USD Per person ( 2 climbers min.)
INCLUDED	Local certified English/Spanish-speaking mountain guide Accommodation at the Refuge. Private transportation in guide’s car Meals mentioned in the program above Transportation, Accommodations, meals for guide Group gear (Ropes
NOT INCLUDED	Meals not mentioned in the itinerary, personal expenses. Insurance, Airfare, accommodation in Quito or another city Soft and alcoholic beverages Additional services not mentioned above Tips and gratuities Personal Gear ( Crampons, Helmet, Harness, Carabins, Piolet) . Glacier, climbing and extra trekking gear (we can assist with the rental)

Additional information

3 days	It’s possible to add one extra day for acclimatization

Day 1: Climbing Mountain Refuge 4800m

Pick you up at your hotel in Quito. then head to the direction of Cotopaxi National Park enjoy the scenic road to Cotopaxi refuge. You often see wild animals such as horses, bulls, birds, rabbits, and foxes. We drive almost 1h from 2900m to 4500m, where we leave our car. The last 300 mts to the hut we make on foot. Before sunset, we have dinner and try to sleep a few hours, at midnight our adventure will start. The unique and compelling Cotopaxi 5897m is waiting for us.
Accommodation: RefugeJose Ribas
Meals: box lunch, dinner

Cotopaxi

Day 2: Climbing Cotopaxi 5897m and back to Quito

The big day of the trip begins shortly after midnight at 4800m. 6-7 hours will be needed to get to the main summit of the World famous Cotopaxi (5897m). A complete alpine glacier hike, surrounded by beautiful mountains and the lights of the capital in the background. The goal of ascension is to reach the summit when the sun rises to enjoy the magnificent colors and views. We need 2-3 hours for the descent. We return to your hotel in Quito.
Meals: light breakfast pre- ascent.

COTOPAXI WEATHER

Best Season to Climb the Cotopaxi

There are two climbing seasons in Ecuador, June to August is when we have summer in the highlands and November to February when in summer in the Jungle side. November to February is considered to be the best time for climbing. Cotopaxi can be climbed year-round because it creates its own microclimate and has the most number of clear days of all the Ecuadorian mountains.

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Please let us know if you need gear for rent, there is plenty of options to rent gear if you don’t want to bring your own.

Tour Reviews

5.00 based on 1 review

AmyS

February 19, 2020

My boyfriend and I went to Quito in January and decided to hike Cotopoxi. Not sure we would have made it without Diego! We got sick before our second acclimating hike and he motivated us to give it a try. When I got nervous and almost decided to not go, he assured me I would be safe and to just do the best i could. Diego became our own personal tour guide and friend. He really made us welcome and gave us honest suggestions to enjoy Ecuador based on listening to what we like. We highly recommend working with him. Our trip wouldn’t have been the same!