Climbing Cotopaxi and Chimborazo

"Avenue of the Volcanoes"

"Ecuador"

Ecuador's mountains and volcanoes are one of its greatest attractions. Their peaks rise into the clouds and their glaciers are gritty torrents of snow and ice, which like rivers of crystal majestically descend to the lowlands. Although situated on the very active Quito fault, the dangers related to unpredicted volcanic activity are almost non-existent, as this active volcanic region is a permanent study-object for scientists, reading the forewarning signs and predicting any increase in volcanic activity. If you have never climbed and want to suck some air at high altitude, Cotopaxi (5897m/19388 ft) is your best bet. While not, as often stated, the highest active volcano in the world, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful mountains in the world and the view from the rim, down into the crater, or across the Andes and Amazonia, is unforgettable. Cotopaxi's conical form makes its ascension relatively easy, making it suitable for complete beginners with a competent guide. Only the high altitude can be a limiting factor and nobody should attempt to climb over 5000 mts/16400 ft until they spent a week at the height of Quito (2800 meters) or equivalent. After testing our skills on Cotopaxi, we head towards the Chimborazo, the highest and largest mountain in Ecuador. At 6310 meters (20700 ft), this mountain was for a long time considered the highest in the world. Stand on the summit and thanks to the equatorial bulge you are closer to the sun than at any other point on the Earth's surface. Since recorded history, Chimborazo has not shown any volcanic activity.

The Itinerary

Day 1:
From Quito drive south to the Cotopaxi National Park. Set up campsite at the Limpiopungo Lagoon (3800m). In the afternoon acclimatization trek towards the rim of the Rumiñahui Volcano. Return to the campsite. (BL, D)

Day 2:
Our transport will take us to the parking lot of the Cotopaxi Volcano, from there a 1 hour trek will take us to the Rivas Hut (4800 m). In the afternoon practices on the closest glaciers. Overnight in the Hut. (B, BL, D)

Day 3:
At midnight, and after a hearty breakfast start the climb to the summit of Cotopaxi Volcano (5897 m). After reaching the summit and enjoying magnificent views of the impressive crater and the surrounding volcanoes. Return to the refuge and to the parking lot. Transport to Riobamba where we stay overnight in a hotel (B L).

Day 4:
Early departure from Riobamba by car, along the southern part of the Pan-American Highway until we reach the slopes of Mount Chimborazo. After approximately 5 hours the drive ends at the lower mountain hut (4800 m). This is followed by a 45-minutes trek to the next and highest hut in Ecuador at 5000 m - the Whimper hut. Later on acclimatisation walks to the glaciers. Afternoon at leisure. Early dinner and sleep. Wake up at 11:00 p.m. for a light coffee or tea. (BL, D)

Day 5:
The climb begins at midnight towards the moraines that lead to the "Castle", where the ice path begins to head up along the ridges of the western slopes. The view is spectacular and unique from here. From the summit, if weather permits, the Pacific Ocean can be seen. The climb lasts an average of 8 - 9 hours to the top (depending on weather and participants’ condition). (B, BL)

General Information

Rated: strenuous

Tour Tariff - Private Departures
N° of Participants	2	3	4
USD	$ 837	$ 786	$ 735
EUR	€ 695	€ 652	€ 610
GBP	£ 468	£ 440	£ 411

(*) Price last updated on 21 February 2004. Current price may vary due to elements out of our control, so please always check by sending us a quotation request .

Included
Private transport, all camping equipment, accommodation in twin tents, in hotels double rooms with private shower and toilet, communal climbing gear, meals as mentioned, professional mountain guides, all entrance fees.

Not included:
Personal equipment, tips, beverages and extras, meals not mentioned.

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