🌄 Experience the Ultimate Climbing Cotopaxi Adventure in Ecuador!
Climbing Cotopaxi is ideal for mountaineers and thrill-seekers looking to combine high-altitude challenge, glacier skills, and breathtaking scenery. Thanks to relatively stable weather throughout the year, this 4-day trip offers a perfect opportunity to reach the iconic summit of Cotopaxi Volcano. Importantly, you will benefit from progressive acclimatization and practical glacier training to maximize safety and success. Learn more about acclimatization.
💡 Why Choose This Climbing Cotopaxi Trip?
- ✅ Progressive acclimatization to optimize your physical performance.
- ✅ Practical glacier classes to gain confidence with technical gear.
- ✅ Experienced Ecuador mountain guides who know Cotopaxi intimately.
- ✅ Unique views of the Cotopaxi Volcano and the Andes from multiple angles.
📍 4-Day Itinerary – Acclimatization – Glacier Class – Climbing Cotopaxi
🗓️ Day One: Acclimatization for Climbing Cotopaxi
First, we depart early from Quito heading south on the Pan-American Highway. After two hours, we reach Cotopaxi National Park and set up camp at 3,900 m. Then, we begin our acclimatization hike to the Central Peak of Rumiñahui (4,650 m), which typically takes 4–5 hours. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a warm dinner and spend your first night at altitude.
🗓️ Day Two: Glacier Class on Cotopaxi Ascent
After a nutritious breakfast at camp, we drive to 4,500 m and begin our ascent to the glacier at 4,800 m. Here, our expert guides will lead hands-on glacier classes covering the use of crampons, ice axes, and safe glacier travel techniques. After training, we return to camp for a well-deserved dinner and rest.
🗓️ Day Three: Climbing Cotopaxi: Refuge Preparation
The day begins with a short vehicle transfer to 4,600 m. From this point, we hike up to the José Rivas Refuge (4,800 m), where we prepare for summit night. After settling in, you’ll have an early dinner and get much-needed rest.
🗓️ Day Four: Cotopaxi Summit Day – Glacier Climb and Descent
Shortly after midnight, the climb begins. With headlamps on and guides at your side, you ascend Cotopaxi along snow and ice routes, reaching the 5,897 m summit at sunrise. From the crater rim, you’ll witness a stunning 360° view of the Andes. Following this, we descend, enjoy breakfast at the refuge, and return to Quito by vehicle.
✅ Climbing Cotopaxi Trip Summary
- ✔️ Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- ✔️ Maximum Altitude: 5,897 m (Cotopaxi summit)
- ✔️ Difficulty: Moderate – good fitness and basic glacier skills required
- ✔️ Best Season: June–August / December–February
- ✔️ Includes: Expert guides, glacier classes, gear, meals, and transportation