Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. It has a perfect cone-shaped peak and snow-covered crater, and it is the main attraction of the Cotopaxi National Park. The ascent is not technically difficult, but there are several crevasses. A sufficient acclimatization and good physical condition are essential for this climb.

Day 1. We leave Riobamba at 9:00 a.m. by car and drive for 2,5 hours north on the Pan-American Highway to the entrance of the Cotopaxi National Park. We continue for another 30 kilometers up to the parking place (4600 m. / 15.092 f.). After a 50-minute hike we arrive at the refuge (4800 m. / 15.748 f.) In the afternoon the guide will teach you how to use the equipment in a climbing practice on the glacier. Dinner and rest in the refuge.

Day 2. At about 1:00 a.m., when the snow is still hard, we start the ascent. The total climbing time to the summit is 6 - 7 hours. You will pass the big round crater which is more than 500 m. / 1.641 ft. wide. The descent to the refuge takes about 3 hours. In the afternoon we have lunch in a restaurant and then return to Riobamba. Arrival at about 15:00 p.m.

DIFFICULTY: moderately difficult; a good acclimatization is recommended

DEPARTURE: any day

WE PROVIDE:
- mountain guide (1 guide climbs with maximum 2 persons)
- transportation from / to Riobamba
- accommodation in refuge
- meals and coffee, tea, purified drinking water
- climbing equipment