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Introduction: The ascent of Cotopaxi is an excellent introduction to high-altitude mountaineering and a great option for more experienced climbers who have time restraints. This expedition will lead to the summit of the highest active volcano in the world and the second highest mountain in Ecuador in less than a week. Ecuador is one of the best places in the world to develop skills in high-altitude mountaineering. Therefore, there will be two days dedicated to developing these skills before the attempt to summit this beautiful and inspirational mountain. Besides offering unique opportunities to satisfy your dreams to climb, Ecuador is a country rich in culture and history. The people are very friendly and you will feel welcomed and comfortable throughout your trip in this marvelous country. You can take this program alone or with a partner. The advantage of doing this program alone is that you will have a guide just for you. On the other hand, the advantage of having a partner is a low price. I also can help you to find a partner. Please let us know what option would be the best for you.
Itinerary: DAY 1: PASOCHOA: (4.200 m) We will leave Quito in the morning and drive past the Panamerican Highway to the foot of the extinct volcano. The ascent will take us about 4 hours. On the top we will eat lunch and enjoy the breathtaking views of Cotopaxi and the other nearby volcanoes. After descending we will return to Quito. DAY 2: GUAGUA PICHINCHA (4800 m) Our acclimatization continues on the Guagua Pichincha (4800 m/ 15500ft) with Quito in the foothills of the mountain. We will begin to climb from an altitude of approximately 3500m/ft. On the final stretch, before reaching the summit, we will be rewarded with spectacular views of the inside of the active crater with its smoke and recently formed lava domes. The ascent will take three to four hours and then it will take two hours to descend to the vehicle. Return to Quito. DAY 3: RUMIÑAHUI (4.712 m) We will leave Quito in the morning, heading in direction of the Cotopaxi National Park. At the Laguna Limpiopungo we will start the ascent, which will take us four hours. At about 5 pm we will be back at the lagoon, where our car will pick us up and will stay overnight at Chilcabamba. DAY 4: JOSE RIBAS REFUGE (4.800 m) After inspecting our equipment and packing, we will drive to the parking area (4600m). After approximately an hour walk, we will arrive at the refuge Jose Ribas (4800m). Training on the nearest glacier, we will learn and practice snow climbing skills, self-arrest, rope handling and glacier travel. Return to the refuge to prepare for the ascent. DAY 5: COTOPAXI SUMMIT (5900 m) We will begin the ascent at one-thirty in the morning. We will walk for an hour over screen and snow until we arrive at the bottom of the glacier (5080m). After five to six hours, we will reach the summit (5897m/19560 ft) where we will be able to admire the gigantic crater that is 800 meters in diameter, the sea of clouds covering the Amazon, the lane of volcanoes, Cayambe, Antisana , and Chimborazo . We will descend to the refuge in two or three hours where we will pack and then travel to Quito. |
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