2-Days Climb Cotopaxi

Enjoy this exciting mountaineering trip to conquer Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and a symbol of Ecuador’s natural beauty. This condensed Climb Cotopaxi 2 Days  offers a challenging ascent to the summit, giving climbers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.

The Cotopaxi Volcano (5897 m) is one of the most active on the planet. It’s located 50 km south of Quito, in the Cotopaxi National Park in Ecuador. Its name means moon neck in the Aymara language.

Day 1: Base Camp Preparation and Ascent to Refuge

• Morning: Depart from Quito early in the morning for the journey to Cotopaxi National Park, located approximately 50 kilometers south of the city.
• Mid-morning: Arrive at the park entrance, complete any necessary registrations or permits, and continue driving towards the base camp.
• Late morning: Begin the hike from the park entrance to the base camp, situated at around 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. The trek involves traversing through beautiful Andean landscapes and volcanic terrain.
• Afternoon: Reach the base camp and meet your mountain guides. Receive a thorough briefing on the ascent plan, safety measures, and equipment required for the climb.
• Evening: Ascend further to the José Rivas Refuge, located at approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level. Settle into the refuge accommodations, enjoy a warm meal prepared by the support staff, and rest in preparation for the summit push.

Day 2: Summit Attempt and Descent

• Midnight: Wake up in the early hours to begin the summit attempt. Prepare with warm layers, mountaineering gear, and essential supplies before setting out.
• Pre-dawn: Start the ascent under the cover of darkness, guided by headlamps and the expertise of your mountaineering team. Navigate the glacier and rocky slopes as you make your way towards the summit.
• Sunrise: Reach the crater rim of Cotopaxi just as the sun begins to rise, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean peaks and valleys.
• Mid-morning: Continue the final push to the summit, standing at an impressive elevation of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. Celebrate your accomplishment and take in the awe-inspiring vistas from the highest point in the vicinity.
• Late morning: Begin the descent back to the refuge, carefully retracing your steps along the same route taken during the ascent.
• Afternoon: Return to the refuge, where you can rest, refuel, and reflect on your achievement. Enjoy a warm meal before descending further back to the base camp.
• Evening: Descend from the refuge to the base camp, concluding your exhilarating climb of Cotopaxi. Bid farewell to the majestic volcano and return to Quito with a sense of accomplishment and unforgettable memories.