Volcano Cotopaxi rises majestically above the Andean mountains and is one of the most active volcanos of Ecuador. The almost perfect cone shape is the identification sign, which made it a world famous picture book volcano. Reaching the top of this volcano is a must for every mountain climber who wants to reach even higher peaks. Technically Cotopaxi is not a difficult mountain, but good physical condition is a basic requirement for a successful climb. From the peak you can enjoy a beautiful view over the wide Andean landscapes and with on a clear day you can see all the snow-capped mountains of Ecuador. Just a glance in the crater (800m in diameter) is all you need to imagine how powerful the forces of nature must have been to create a natural beauty of this kind.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Pasochoa - Alberge Cuello de Luna
A tour to the protected woodlands of Pasochoa, about 30 km south of Quito, leads us to the Ecuadorian Andean timber forest. Here we can start to acclimatise entering the area at 2700m. During the walk we will see bromelias, orchids and rare types of cedars up to an altitude of more than 3.500m. The Pasochoa peak is 4.200 meters high and covered with impressive Páramo vegetation. More than 150 species of birds live here. It is easy to see hummingbirds and with a little bit of luck we can even see Condors. In the afternoon we will drive to the Hosteria Cuello de Luna that is our acclimatisation centre at the foot of Cotopaxi. -/L/D
Day 02: Illinizas Norte - Albergue Cuello de Luna
Today our acclimatisation tour takes us to the peak Illinizas Sur; a mixed climb of rocks and ice. The Illinizas North and South are the remains of one volcano and that has been seperated into two 1 km apart. From these peaks you will have a beautiful view of the nearby Cotopaxi. In the morning we start our tour from Cuello de Luna to Tarqui passing El Chaupi and up to the hacienda "El Refugio". From here we walk on a country line 5 km to a little plain of grass with the name "La Virgen". We ascend in 2-3 hours to the refuge "Nuevos Horizontes" at 4675m. If your fitness level is up to it, we can start the ascent to the northern peak on this day. We can reach this peak in 3 hours and hiking down takes about 1 hour. We come back to the Alberge for relaxation and a hearty dinner. B/L/D
Day 03: Lagoon of Quilotoa - Alberge Cuello de Luna
During our 6-hour roundtrip in the car we will see the region of Chugchilan and Quilotoa Lake, which are two of the most incredible sights in Ecuador. We begin driving South to Zumbuahua. It is a small, colourful village of just 80 families. 10 km north lays the blue and green glimmering volcano lagoon of Quilotoa. This lake is one of the most beautiful volcano lakes in the Ecuadorian Andes. From the crater you can see the different snow topped volcanoes. After a short excursion we drive through Chugchilan and Sigchos and come back to Cuello de Luna. During this tour we make stops and you have the possibility to see the original villages and the great landscapes that are home to a variety of orchids and birds. We will spend the night in Cuello de Luna. B/L/D
Day 04: Cotopaxi National Park - Jose Rivas Refuge
At 10 am we will go to el Chasqui, from here we drive to Cotopaxi National Park. Afterwards we will make a short stop at the natural museum to admire the flora and fauna of the park. After 3 hours we will reach the parking lot at 4.600m. From here we walk about 1 hour to the Jose-Rivas-Refuge at 4.800m. After lunch we hike to the glaciers. In the afternoon we come back to the hut where we will have dinner and sleep early. B/L/D
Day 05: Climb Cotopaxi - return to Quito
After a little breakfast we will start our climb, approx. midnight. Weather and physical conditions permitting, we will reach the peak (5.897 m) in 6-7 hours. If the weather is good, we will have a spectacular view of the surrounding snow-covered volcanos. Afterwards we return to the hut. In the afternoon we head back to Quito. B/L/-
B= breakfast; L= Lunch; D= Dinner
Prices 2007:
USD 780.- per Person.
Extra Price for Single room Accommodation: USD 50.-
Minimum 2 People.
The price includes:
Private transportation 4WD, English speaking (mountain) guide, our guides are equipped with oxygen, cell phones and radios, meals as mentioned above. For climbing: mountain boots, ice axe, crampons, harness, rope, entrance fee to the National Parks, lodging at the refuges.
Not included in the price:
sleeping bag, personal equipment, tips, travel insurance, mountain equipment: gaiters, warm and waterproof clothes, sunglasses, headlamp with batteries, gloves etc.
What to bring with you:
Sleeping bag, personal equipment, travel insurance, mountain equipment: gaiters, warm and waterproof clothes (Fleece and Gore-Tex), sunglasses, headlamp with batteries, gloves, sun block, torch, hat, trekking shoes, warm and water-proof clothing, canteen, camera and film (100 ASA).
Climb Antisana 5.704 m - Climb Cayambe 5.790 m
Climb Chimborazo 6310 m - Climb Cotopaxi 5.987 m - Climbing Tour in Ecuador
| | | | | |
| | | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | |
| | | | | |
| 
