Climbing Cotopaxi Summit: An Unforgettable 8-Day Adventure
Cotopaxi, one of the most iconic volcanoes in the world, stands at an impressive 5,897 meters (19,347 feet). This perfectly conical stratovolcano offers an exhilarating challenge for mountaineers. Our 8-day itinerary is designed to optimize acclimatization, ensuring a higher success rate for reaching the summit. Join us for an unforgettable experience as we traverse Ecuador’s breathtaking landscapes!
🗓️ Day 1: Arrival in Quito – Acclimatization Begins
Your adventure begins in Quito, Ecuador’s high-altitude capital (2,850 m/9,350 ft). Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. The day is dedicated to rest and light exploration, allowing your body to begin the acclimatization process. Optional activities include visiting the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or taking a short hike to TelefériQo for stunning city views.
🗓️ Day 2: Transfer to Iliniza Mountain Lodge & Acclimatization Hike to Saquihua Hill
We depart Quito and head towards Iliniza’s Mountain Lodge (3,300 m/10,827 ft), nestled in the heart of the Andean highlands. After settling in, we take an acclimatization hike to Saquihua Hill (3,800 m/12,467 ft). This gentle hike introduces you to the breathtaking landscapes and helps your body adjust to higher altitudes.
🗓️ Day 3: Hike to El Corazón Volcano (4,786 m / 15,702 ft)
Today, we take on El Corazón, a dormant volcano offering a fantastic opportunity to gain altitude gradually. The hike is moderately challenging and provides spectacular views of surrounding peaks like Rumiñahui and the Ilinizas. The descent takes us back to the lodge, where we enjoy a well-earned rest.
🗓️ Day 4: Hike to Nuevos Horizontes Refuge (4,750 m / 15,584 ft)
We begin our ascent toward the Nuevos Horizontes Refuge, strategically located between Iliniza Norte and Iliniza Sur. The trek involves navigating high-altitude terrain, an essential step in your acclimatization process. Upon arrival, we settle into the refuge and prepare for the summit attempt the following day.
🗓️ Day 5: Summit Iliniza Norte (5,126 m / 16,818 ft)
An early start sees us tackling Iliniza Norte, a non-glaciated peak with exciting rock scrambling sections. Reaching the summit offers stunning panoramic views of Cotopaxi and its neighboring volcanoes. After descending, we return to the lodge to rest and prepare for the next phase of our journey.
🗓️ Day 6: Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park & Hike to Refuge (4,864 m / 15,953 ft)
Leaving Iliniza behind, we travel to Cotopaxi National Park. Upon arrival, we embark on a short but steep hike to the José Rivas Refuge, the base camp for our Cotopaxi climb. We rest early, as summit day begins before midnight.
🗓️ Day 7: Summit Cotopaxi (5,897 m / 19,347 ft)
The most anticipated day of our expedition starts around midnight. Equipped with crampons, ice axes, and headlamps, we begin our ascent under a starlit sky. The climb takes approximately 6-8 hours, with breathtaking glaciers and crevasses along the way. Upon reaching the summit, we witness a sunrise like no other, with views stretching over Ecuador’s Andean peaks. After celebrating this incredible achievement, we descend back to the refuge and later return to Quito.
🗓️ Day 8: Departure – Fly Home
After a well-deserved rest, we transfer you to the airport for your departure flight. As you leave Ecuador, you’ll carry with you incredible memories, breathtaking photos, and the immense satisfaction of conquering one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.
Why Choose Us?
- Expert Guides: Our professional, bilingual mountain guides ensure your safety and success.
- Optimal Acclimatization: Our carefully designed itinerary increases your chances of reaching the summit.
- Comfortable Lodging: Stay in well-equipped lodges and refuges throughout your journey.
- Unparalleled Scenery: Experience the beauty of Ecuador’s Andean landscapes from multiple vantage points.
Are you ready to take on the challenge? Book your Climbing Cotopaxi Summit adventure today!
