Climbing of Cotopaxi Volcano – 2 Days

The Cotopaxi Volcano, the second highest peak in Ecuador (5,897 m), is located 70 km south of Quito, in the eastern cordillera of the Andes. It is one of the eight active volcanoes on the mainland and the highest active volcano in the world. Its eruptive history dates back to 1534 and coincides with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. Its last major eruption occurred in 1877; its lava and mudflows destroyed much of the cities of Latacunga, Lasso, and Machachi, as well as the Los Chillos Valley, at the foot of Quito.

Climbing the highest active volcano in the world is a fantastic experience that takes approximately 8 hours of hiking (refuge – summit – refuge).

Itinerary :

Day 1:

Departure at 10:00 a.m. from Quito by private vehicle to Cotopaxi National Park. Lunch at the park entrance. Ascent to the refuge parking area at 4,500 meters, followed by a hike to José Ribas Refuge at 4,864 m (45 minutes walking). In the afternoon, depending on weather conditions, we will put on crampons and the guide will explain the use of technical equipment, glacier travel techniques (helmet, harness, rope, crampons, and ice axe), as well as safety procedures according to high-mountain standards. The guide will also assess each participant’s level to form appropriate rope teams. Return to the refuge for dinner and rest in the dormitory. Overnight at the refuge at 4,800 m.
L – D

Walking time: 45 minutes
Terrain type: volcanic ash
Elevation gain: 300 meters

Day 2:

Wake-up around midnight to eat and get dressed with personal and technical equipment. The ascent will begin around 1:00 a.m. Roping up will take place on the glacier about 200 meters higher. The ascent will take between 5 and 7 hours, and the descent 3 hours. Return to the refuge to collect extra gear and return to Quito late in the morning.
B

Walking time: approximately 8 to 10 hours
Terrain type: sandy trails, rock, occasional snow, and glacier
Elevation gain: 1,100 meters