How often do you get the chance to climb a snow capped 5,897 (19,347 ft) active volcano? Cotopaxi, one of the country’s most majestic peaks, offers dozens of alpine climbs, fascinating landscapes, alpine glaciers, and vibrant communities along the way. This active stratovolcano is located in the heart of Ecuador, just 30 miles south of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. As you fly into Quito, you’ll notice the majestic volcano from your window and realize why so many outdoor enthusiasts choose to summit it every year! Gracefully rising from a beautiful paramo plateau, it boasts a snow-capped crater, glaciers, stone mountain huts, and mesmerizing vistas. Cotopaxi is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and despite its activity, it is not very technical, making it an amazing climbing experience for both those new to climbing and experienced mountaineers! Find out more about climbing Cotopaxi in Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes from Wlady Ortiz, local guide and founder of Ecuador Eco Adventure.
This active volcano in Ecuador is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels and experience. It is less technical than many other summits, making it perfect for anyone new to climbing, but due to its activity and spectacular vistas, it is also ideal for climbers who like adrenaline and adventure! Don’t let that intimidate you — your experienced and professional guide will always put your safety first and help you perfect your climbing skills before the summit. Cotopaxi will definitely challenge you, but the feeling of conquering the world’s fifth highest active volcano will make it all worth it!
After meeting with your guides, head to Cotopaxi and prepare for the summit. Check your equipment and go over the itinerary before hiking up to the first refuge. After you reach the refuge, begin with mountaineering instruction and let your guide explain the climb in detail. Enjoy an early dinner and sleep to regain energy that you’ll definitely need for the summit!
Wake up in the middle of the night and get ready for the summit! Begin climbing and expect to reach the top in the early morning hours. Enjoy the colorful sunrise from 19,347 ft and appreciate the moment before going back down. Get back to the refuge and reward yourself with a short break and a snack before heading back to the parking lot.
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.
We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Ecuador, please refer to the Covid-19 Information by the US Embassy and Consulate in Ecuador.
Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
What you get in this adventure:
What’s not included:
This alpine climbing adventure is ideal for intermediate to experienced climbers. You will need a good level of fitness as you will be moving for a minimum of four hours on the rocks plus some additional hiking. Even though climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength, time spent in the alpine environment will test you. Be prepared for full days of strenuous climbing in cold temperatures and changeable weather conditions.
If you’ve never alpine climbed before, this might not be the ideal option for you — it depends on your previous experience. Alpine climbing is not for first-time rock climbers, but if you have some experience in rock climbing, there are routes that you can successfully complete with the help of a guide. These days with a guide are meant to develop skills and techniques that will take your climbing to the next level. You will spend time on rock, snow and ice terrain to round out the skill set with guides that have years and years of mountain experience to share with you.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Group sizes and prices:
If you are traveling with a bigger group, let us know and we will make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
One of your quickest options for getting to Cotopaxi National Park is Quito International Airport, located only two and a half hours away. From there you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Riobamba where you’ll meet with your guides. Transportation from Quito to Riobamba can also be organized by the guide for an additional fee.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best exact place to meet. Depending on your wishes and objectives, fitness level, and previous climbing experience, your guide will choose the most appropriate location for alpine climbing.
Cancel within 48 hours of booking your trip for free, no questions asked. If you need to change your plans up to 31 days ahead of your scheduled adventure, we offer a full refund on most trips. Within 31 days we offer free date changes or the option to convert your booking to credit to use on any 57hours adventure at a later date.
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