TREKKING
5 Days
5 days/4 nights
- Max. Altitude: 5126m/16,813ft
- Difficulty: Beginners
- Best time: all year
- Guide/client ratio: 1:4
Highlights:
- Pita Canyon
- NP Cotopaxi
- Rumiñahui Central (4631m/15,189ft)
- Refugio Cotopaxi
- Iliniza Norte (5126m/16,818ft)
Accommodation:
Day 1: Hike through the Pita Canyon
After breakfast we start in Quito and drive about 2 hours to the starting point of our first hike. We start at about 3.500m/11,482ft, walk for the first two hours along the small river Pita, then it goes on gently. This day is perfect to get you ready for the next days, hilly hike, view of the Cotopaxi, after 5-6 hours we reach our first lodge. Overnight at the nice Tambopaxi Lodge (3700m/12,139). (BL/D)
Day 2: Trekking in the NP Cotopaxi
Today we hike through the Cotopaxi National Park and make a light trek at the foot of Rumiñahui. On our way we pass the lagoon Limpiopungo. If you wish, we follow an old route at the end of which we reach a ridge that leads us to the last ascent to the summit of Rumiñahui Central at 4634m/15,203ft. Once at the top, we are rewarded with a magnificent view over the Cotopaxi National Park, as well as the sight of Cotopaxi on the horizon and the Illiniza in the west. We stay in the same lodge. Total walking time: 5-7h. (B/BL/D)
Day 3: Hike to the Hut Jose Ribas 4850m/15,912ft – El Chaupi
After breakfast we drive to the parking lot of Cotopaxi at 4600m/15,091ft, then we hike for about one hour to the hut Jose Ribas at 4850m/15,912ft. Then we go to the glacier start. Descend to the car park and drive to “El Chaupi” to the next cozy Mountain Lodge. (B/BL/D)
Day 4: Ascent to the hut of Ilinizas 4750m/15,583ft
Today we start our day with a leisurely breakfast. In the late morning we start towards Ilinizas. We drive to the parking lot “La Virgen” at 4000m, from where we go on a scenic path. Horses carry our things to the hut. After 3 hours of walking we reach the refuge of the Ilinizas at 4750m. In the afternoon we relax and then there is a delicious dinner from the cook. Overnight in dormitory. Total walking time: 3 h (B/BL/D)
Day 5: Summit climb Iliniza North 5126m/16,813ft – Quito
We start early in the morning. At sunrise, we ride along the saddle between the northern and southern tip, from where we continue our way to the ridge. The last ascent, a slight climb, is not a big challenge for most hikers, and ends after about 3 hours at the summit (5126m). In front of us the southern tip opens up. Within three hours we get back to the parking lot and then we drive back to Quito. Total walking time: 5 h (B/BL)
Included:
- Private transfer (4WD)
- Qualified (ASEGUIM/UIAGM), english-speaking mountain guide
- Meals like mentioned in the program (B=breakfast/BL=Box Lunch/D=dinner)
- Accommodation like mentioned in the program (in the Lodges and Hut in dormitories)
- Nationalpark fees and entrances
- Security and fun as 1st priority
NOT included:
- Personal equipment (can be rented in Quito)
- Any kind of insurance
- Tips
- Alcoholic- and extra drinks
- Hotel in Quito
- Meals in the cities (Quito, etc.)
- Additional costs like laundry, telephone calls, etc.
Please note that this itinerary is a guideline only. We will do every effort to follow it, but in case of unforeseen circumstances we may have to make changes.
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COTOPAXI EXPRESS
Enjoy with us this unforgettable 7-day mountaineering expedition to conquer Cotopaxi. As the Ecuadorian volcanoes crown jewel, Cotopaxi challenges climbers with its impressive glaciers and lofty altitude and is the ideal mountain for climber´s seeking to build their climbing skills and reach new heights.
Personal & professional approach
Prompt consultation of professionals and support on all requirements at all stages of a program. We manage all of our climbing and trekking tours individually, ensuring that the attention to detail and all the small things are there – we are always here and available to help.
