Cotopaxi Summit (2 or 3 Days)

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Cotopaxi Summit (2 or 3 Days)

General Information

Cotopaxi Summit - 2 Day Tour

This is the most popular mountain climbing tour in Ecuador, reaching the top of the 5,897 meter (19,347 feet) Cotopaxi volcano and its crater. This tour requires acclimatization to altitude and very good physical fitness, but is relatively non-technical for those with little to no climbing experience.

Cotopaxi is one of the three highest active volcanoes in the world, last erupting in the 1940s, and is one of Ecuador's most active volcanoes. The climb to the summit is strenuous, but for those who successfully reach the top, amazing views of the crater and incredible sunrise views of the surrounding region are part of the reward.

Two tours are offered; a two day option to climb to the summit, or a 3 day tour. The 3 day tour includes an acclimatization climb of the 4712 meter Rumiñahui volcano on the first day of the tour, advisable for those who have had little time to adjust to altitude.

For the Cotopaxi climb, there is one guide for every two climbers. Climbing equipment is provided for these tours, and there is a minimum of 2 passengers for these tours (tours are possible for one climber with a private guide, but significantly more expensive). All climbing tours are high risk activities; travel insurance is strongly recommended. While we select the most experienced, quality operators and guides available, neither Eos Ecuador or the tour operators can accept responsibility for accidents or health issues. For all climbing tours, weather conditions or other safety related factors may result in the cancellation of the climb, and if your climbing partner must return to the refuge due to altitude sickness or physical limitations, you may be required to return as well. No refunds are given in these cases.

Itinerary

Itineraries listed below are subject to minor changes.

Cotopaxi 2 day Climb

DAY ONE

We depart Quito at 9 AM for the Cotopaxi National Park. We hike from the parking area at 4600 meters to the refuge at 4800 meters where we have a box lunch, then in the afternoon (weather permitting) we hike to the glacier to practice with our equipment. Return to the refuge, and have dinner around 6 PM.

DAY TWO

We wake up at midnight to review equipment and have a cup of hot tea. Shortly afterward, after organizing our equipment, we begin our climb to the 5890 meter peak. The climb typically takes 5 to 6 hours. We generally reach the top at sunrise, and take some time to enjoy the amazing views and take pictures before we begin our descent, which typically takes about 3 hours. Return to the refuge, and we return to Quito around 1 or 2 PM.

Cotopaxi 3 day Climb

DAY ONE

Depart Quito at 8 AM in private transport for a 2 hour trip to the Cotopaxi National Park. Upon arrival, we begin a 5 or 6 hour hike to climb Rumiñahui, 4712 meters in elevation. Box lunch. After our hike, we travel to our lodge where we have dinner, and spend our first night.

DAY TWO

After breakfast, we travel by private transport to the parking area below the refuge (4600 meters). Hike to the refuge (4800 meters) for a box lunch; after lunch, weather permitting, we walk to the glacier with guides for practice with our equipment. We return to the refuge, and have our dinner at about 6 PM.

DAY THREE

Prices

2018 Rates (minimum 2 climbers)

2 days: $290 USD per person with even number of climbers, private guide additional
3 days: $480 USD per person with even number of climbers, private guide additional
For private tours or larger groups, please contact us.

Tour Includes:

Accommodations and meals during the tour (box lunches)
Professional, certified mountain guide for the Cotopaxi climb (one guide for every two climbers)
Climbing equipment
Transportation to and from Quito and within the National Park