Rising majestically from the eastern cordillera of the Andes, Cotopaxi is Ecuador's most famous volcano. Edward Whymper, the first to ascend Cotopaxi, claimed its 5.895 m symmetrical cone made it the most perfectly shaped mountain in the world. Climbing it has now become a prerequisite for any mountaineer aspiring to higher peaks. Technically it is not a difficult mountain but, due to its cloud-piercing height, it is essential that climbers are well acclimatised, as well as physically and mentally prepared. Ice- climbing gear is also required. From its summit Cotopaxi offers a spectacular panorama; on a clear day all of Ecuador's other snow-capped peaks can be seen, as well the Amazon basin. The gas-emitting crater, almost 800 m in diameter, will certainly remind climbers that they are standing on an active volcano-one that is long overdue to erupt!
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 01.- Cotopaxi National Park
We pick you up from your hotel early in the morning and drive through the Pan-American Highway to the South. Upon arriving at the Cotopaxi National Park, you will visit the interpretation center where descriptions of the local flora and fauna as well as the history of the major eruptions of the world’s highest active volcano are provided. From the parking lot, you will begin by climbing up to the refuge (4,800 m). Back in the parking lot, you continue on to Limpiopungo Lake. During the exciting journey, you can admire streams and large rocks where volcanic remains are still evident. You pass the Inca ruins of Pucará del Salitre which were in former times a strategic military fortress of the Inca Empire. From here you have a great view of the surrounding mountains. The drive will then end at the farmhouse Hacienda El Porvenir, where a delicious dinner awaits you. -/L/D
Day 02.- Cotopaxi refuge: (Option One)
On the last day you hike to the shelter on Cotopaxi at 4.800 m. The hike takes 4 to 5 hours to reach the refuge and 15 minutes back down to the parking lot were the vehicles will pick you up to take you to Hacienda El Porvenir from where you return to Quito. B/L/-
Day 02.- Horseback riding and hiking. (Option two)
A brief lesson is given in the morning at Hacienda El Porvenir to teach you how to ride and get acquainted with the horses. Wearing the typical “Chagra” attire, you will begin a visit to the foothills of Rumiñahui volcano. The native guides will share their knowledge of medical plants. The ride takes about 4 hours. Afterwards a delicious lunch of local dishes awaits you at the farmhouse. In the afternoon you drive to Hacienda Santa Rita ecological reserve on the slopes of Pasochoa Volcano where you hike through the native Andean forest. After the hike, you return to Quito, transfer to your hotel in Quito. B/L/-
Day 02.- Trekking Rumiñahui. (Option three)
Very early in the morning you begin climbing Rumiñahui Volcano, crossing vast highlands swept by the cold breath of the Andes. Form the peaks of Rumiñahui at 4712 m on a cloudless day one can admire in the distance the peaks of Ilinizas and Chimborazo. Trekking time: 6 hours approximately. After the hike you return to Quito, transfer to your hotel in Quito. B/L/-
B= Breakfast L= Lunch D= Dinner
Price 2008/2009:
USD 168, - per person with minimum 4 people
USD 190, - per person with minimum 2 people
USD 340,- with one person
Tour Includes
• Lodging (based on double room)
• 4 meals
• Described activities
• Guides (bilingual and local depending on the activity)
• Basic equipment for each activity (zamarro and poncho)
• Transportation from and back to Quito (on tour days)
Tour Does Not Include
• Cotopaxi National Park entrance fee (USD10 foreigners)
• Bar and shop
• Tips
• Hotel in Quito
Note: Although this is a moderate trek, it could be very hard if you are not properly acclimatized. You need to be ready and prepared to walk on trails as well as on cross-country terrain, marsh and forests. Do not expect to find well-marked trails like in the Alps or the National Parks of the USA.
If you need any additional information please write us:
Abraspungo Trekking - Altar Trekking - Antisana Trekking - El Angel Trekking - Piñan Trekking
Podocarpus National Park - The Inca Trail Tour - Trekking in the Cotopaxi & Illinizas National Park
Volcano Trekking - Volcano Multi Adventure - Cotopaxi Volcano Ride
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South America 
