Cotopaxi Climbing – MultiPeak

A morning pickup in Quito has us off to Pasachoa, not far from the entrance to Cotopaxi. This is an ideal warmup trek, with no technical gear required. This ascent will help us prep our lungs for things to come, and give us spectacular views. On clear days we can observe the peaks of four big volcanoes, including: Cotopaxi, Sincholagua, Rumiñahui, and Antisana. Hike time: 5-6 hours Overnight: Mountain Lodge Meals included: Lunch & Dinner

We will arrive to the picturesque Limpiopungo lagoon, where we will have lunch and have a safety briefing and familiarize ourselves with the gear. From this point we will begin out ascent to the summit of the volcano. We will hike for 4-5 hours with our journey ending directly at our panoramic lodge for the night. Hike time: 4-5 hours Overnight: Hacienda Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

After an early breakfast we will set for Ilinizas Reserve. Today is a bit of a long journey, but we can take our time if needed. We start at 3900m, and after passing three distinct vegetation zones, we arrive to the refuge after 2-3 hours for a break at 47500m. If the weather is clear we head for the summit, which isnt too much further on, 5116m. Hike time: 7-8 hours Overnight: Mountain Lodge Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

This morning we get some much needed casual time at the lodge. We can take our time today, with the idea of arriving to the base of Cotopaxi in the early afternoon. Along the 1-hour drive, keep an eye out for wildlife, which often includes wild horses and a glimpse of the Andean Condors. Once we arrive to the parking lot, we will have a 260 meter ascent to the Refuge at 4810m. The afternoon will be spent leisurely at the refuge, where we can enjoy tea and an early supper. You will be given a bunk, and we hope to get some early sleep. Hike time: 1 hour Overnight: Cotopaxi refuge Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Depending on weather conditions, and the experience of the climbers, we will depart the refuge between midnight and 1AM. We plan on arrival to the summit at daybreak. The guide will plan a departure time in accordance with current climbing conditions, as to ensure a safe trek, while arriving at an optimal time to enjoy the morning views and allow enough time to safely return to the refuge. It can take 4-6 hours of slow and steady trekking to reach the summit, and the return is generally 2-3 hours. Once back to the parking lot, we will head straight back to Quito for an estimated 3PM hotel arrival. Hike time: 7-9 hours Meals included: Breakfast