Cotopaxi Epedition - Andean Heights | Unforgettable Adventures in the Peruvian Andes with Fredi Cruz

COTOPAXI EXPEDITION

Cotopaxi is one of the most famous and visually striking volcanoes in the Andes. Known for its nearly perfect cone and active crater, this glacier-covered giant stands at 5,897 meters and offers a relatively accessible high-altitude climb for well-prepared trekkers.

Certified IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide
All meals during the expedition
Camping equipment (tents, kitchen gear, etc.)
Arrieros (muleteers) for gear transport
Private transportation
Group climbing gear (ropes, ice screws, snow stakes, etc.)

More than a climb — Cotopaxi is a calling to conquer altitude and self...

PREPARATION

Fitness

High. You should be capable of sustained physical effort at high altitudes and have prior hiking or climbing experience.

Technical

Moderate. Basic crampon, ice axe, and rope team movement required. 30–40° snow/ice slopes and potential crevasse navigation.

Altitude

5,897 m (Summit of Cotopaxi)

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Quito / Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park

Meet your guide and drive to Cotopaxi National Park, entering through highland páramo landscapes with stunning views of Rumiñahui and Cotopaxi itself. Light acclimatization hike near Limpiopungo Lagoon or up to Rumiñahui Norte (~4,600 m), depending on time and weather.
⏱️ 3–4 hours hike (optional)

Day 2 – Acclimatization Climb: Pasochoa or Rumiñahui (4,200–4,700 m)

Spend the day ascending a nearby peak such as Pasochoa or Rumiñahui Central, both excellent for acclimatization and conditioning. Panoramic views of Cotopaxi and the central highlands. Return to lodge in the park or transfer to the refuge entrance area.
⏱️ 4–6 hours hike

Day 3 – Glacier Skills + Transfer to Refugio José Ribas (4,864 m)

Begin the day with a short glacier workshop or final hike. In the afternoon, drive to the Cotopaxi parking lot (4,600 m) and hike 45 minutes to Refugio José Ribas. After dinner and briefing with your guide, rest early in preparation for summit night.
⏱️ 2–3 hours total activity

Day 4 – Summit Day: Cotopaxi (5,897 m)

Start your ascent around midnight. The route begins with a gradual snowfield, then progresses across crevassed glacier terrain with some sections at 35–40°. After 6–8 hours of climbing, you’ll reach the smoking crater rim and the summit — with sunrise over the Andes.
Descend back to the refuge, then hike down to the parking lot and transfer to Quito or Baños.
⏱️ 10–12 hours total (climb + descent + transfer)