Climb Cotopaxi - Guided Climb to the Summit

Multi-day trips Tours Guided tours Outdoor activities Outdoor sports Nature & adventure Extreme sports & adrenaline Hiking Climbing experiences Private tours Glacier exploration Volcano tours National parks

Climb Cotopaxi Volcano on a guided expedition from Quito. Get acclimatization guidance, learn glacier safety, and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit.

Highlights

  • Feel the thrill of climbing one of the world’s highest active volcanoes
  • Learn how to use ice axes and ropes for your nighttime ascent
  • Enjoy breathtaking views over the Avenue of Volcanoes at sunrise
  • Get all the technical equipment you need, including crampons and helmets
  • Benefit from detailed acclimatization guidance to prepare for the climb

Description

limb one of the world’s highest active volcanoes with this fully guided Cotopaxi expedition, designed for adventure travelers ready to take on Ecuador’s iconic 5,897-meter summit. Starting from Quito, you’ll receive detailed acclimatization guidance to prepare your body for the high-altitude climb, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenge. After arriving at the José Rivas Refuge at 4,800 meters, your certified ASEGUIM mountain guide will conduct glacier safety and crampon training, teaching you how to use ice axes and ropes for your nighttime ascent. The climb begins around midnight under a sky filled with stars, taking you across volcanic ash fields, crevassed glaciers, and steep snow slopes, with short technical sections requiring teamwork and endurance. Reaching the summit around sunrise, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views over the Avenue of Volcanoes, including Chimborazo, Cayambe, and the surrounding paramo landscapes, with clouds often floating below you. All technical equipment, including crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes, is provided, and meals are included at the refuge to keep you energized for your climb. This Cotopaxi climb is suitable for fit hikers with previous high-altitude trekking experience looking to push their limits safely under the guidance of experienced local mountaineers. Your journey not only offers the achievement of summiting one of the world’s highest volcanoes but also an intimate connection with Ecuador’s wild, windswept highlands, making it an unforgettable highlight of your South American adventure.

Includes

Certified ASEGUIM mountain guide Accommodation in Mountain Refuge Technical equipment including crampons, helmets, harnesses, and ice axes Meals at the refuge Snacks for the climb Transportation from and to Quito (latacunga pick up also availible) Adventure insurance

Important Information

  • Previous high-altitude trekking experience is recommended The climb begins around midnight The summit is at 5,897 meters Acclimatization guidance is provided

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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