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Cotopaxi is the most beautiful volcano in the world, as well as one of the most active volcanoes in the world and the second highest volcano in Ecuador. The climb to the summit of Cotopaxi is not highly technical, but it does require the use of crampons, ice axes and ropes. Departing from the refuge around midnight climbers begin the ascent of the volcano reaching at the top of Cotopaxi after sunrise at 6 am. Here, climbers can enjoy the breathtaking views of Cotopaxi's crater and on clear days, it is possible to see all of Quito. We recommend to you our Acclimatization Packages to ensure that you to enjoy your climbing experience!!
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Itineraries
Day 1
Hike and Summit Volcano Rumiñahui
We will leave Quito early in the morning around 8 a.m. and we will drive south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes until we reach the town of El Chaupi, there we will prepare all the necessary equipment for the ascent, the meeting point will be at Tambopaxi lodge. Drive to the place called “Limpiopungo” (12,139ft/3.700m). where is a beautiful lake in the heart of the national park with wonderful views of the magnificent volcano Cotopaxi. The hike starting along the lake up through small Andean grass. Then we will get on a sandy section, which leads to the last sections, which involves some short and technical walls, much scrambling, and loose rocks, we will get the summit of Rumiñahui after 4 hours of hiking and a bit of climbing; on the descend we will scramble down and the rest of the trail we will just walk down to the parking place. Finally, we will return to our comfortable Lodge.
- Accommodation: Tambopaxi Lodge
- Meals: -/Box Lunch/Dinner
Day 2
Tambopaxi Lodge
From Tambopaxi Lodge will drive to the Cotopaxi parking lot (4.500m/14,763 ft) then we’ll hike up for around an hour to the Jose Ribas Refuge. Then we will have dinner and rest until midnight. At this point we will pack our belongings and get ready to make our final ascent.
- Meals: Box Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tambopaxi Lodge
Day 3
Cotopaxi Summit
Midnight will be our wake-up time and the departure to the top (19,347ft/5897m) will be around 1am, after having a light breakfast and getting our stuff ready for the ascent. At the entrance of the glacier, your guide will explain all necessary tips needed for using crampons and ice axe if needed. The climb will take us about 6 to 8 hours and once at the summit we’ll take our time for pictures of the crater and surroundings, and then we’ll head back down the refuge, which will take us 2 to 3 hours. Once at the refuge we will pack our belongings, have something to eat and go down to the parking lot, where our transportation will be ready to take us back to Quito.
- Accommodation:
- Meals: Breakfast
- Qualified and experienced Ecuadorian local Mountain Guide (ASEGUIM/UIAGM - max 2 climbers per guide)
- Registration in the System SIB (System Information of Biodiversity)
- Technical mountain equipment (Mountaineering Boots, crampons, ice axe, harness, helmet)
- Land transportation and transfers to Cotopaxi National Park
- Accommodation at Tambopaxi Lodge
- All meals during the hikes and climbs
- Personal mountain gear (warm cloths, sleeping bags, sunglasses, head lamp, etc.)
- International flight tickets
- Hotel in Quito
- Tips
- Insurance of any kind
- Travel accident and health insurance
- Luggage insurance and trip cancellation
- Other non-specified expenses
The tour includes professional ASEGUIM-certified mountain guides, transportation, park entrance fees, meals during the climb, refuge or lodge accommodation, and technical gear if required.
Rumiñahui (4,721 m / 15,489 ft) is a great acclimatization hike, while Cotopaxi (5,897 m / 19,347 ft) is a challenging glacier climb that requires basic mountaineering skills. Our guides provide instruction and support throughout.
No prior experience is required. The program is designed for beginners with good fitness. You will learn crampon use, rope techniques, and glacier safety during the expedition.
The best seasons are June to September and December to February, when weather conditions in the Andes are more stable and summit success rates are highest.
We provide all the necessary technical equipment (ice axe, crampons, helmet, harness). You only need personal clothing, hiking boots, and warm layers. Rental options are available at Andes Alpes Mountain Gear Rental in El Chaupi.
You’ll stay at Ilinizas Mountain Lodge (3,300 m / 10,826 ft) in El Chaupi before the climbs and at Cotopaxi Refuge José Ribas (4,864 m / 15,953 ft) before summit night.
The program typically lasts 3–4 days, including acclimatization, the Rumiñahui hike, and the Cotopaxi summit climb. Custom itineraries are available on request.
All guides are ASEGUIM/UIAGM certified, carry first-aid kits, and are trained in high-altitude rescue. Oxygen and emergency communication devices are available during the climb.
You can reserve your expedition directly through Cotopaxi Travel
or on our WeTravel page, choosing private or group options. Early booking is recommended for high season.
