Contact provider for price | 7 Days | Year-round |
Comfort accommodations
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Exertion level: 7
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Operator: Equatortrekking |
16 people max
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This program is recommended for mountain lovers. It is designed for the mountaineer who wishes to summit the most active volcano in the world. On this climb, the final goal is to ascent up the Cotopaxi via the south face. This is a difficult route that will take place in an expeditionary style. For those with a passion for the unique, this program takes place in the heart of the Andes.
We will start with the Rucu Pichincha (4.698 m / 15.413 ft) that in Indian language means "old". The Rucu Pichincha is one of the best mountains to begin acclimating before climbing the volcanoes. Our next ascent will be the Carihuairazo Volcano (5.028 m / 16.496 ft) which in Indian language means "The Mountain of Snowy Wind". Technically, this mountain is not difficult, but during some seasons it may be covered with snow and ice and could required all the special equipment necessary for climbing glaciers. Our final goal: The ascent to the Cotopaxi volcano (5.897 m /19.347 feet). Towering Cotopaxi through its South face is a special and different experience; it is a small expedition on horseback with assistants towards the refugee. This side of the volcano is not frequently visited, being unusual and attractive to people who love distant and special places. A surprising mountain experience!
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Locations visited/nearby
Ecuador, South America
0 testimonials about this trip.
3 testimonials about the provider, Equatortrekking:
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Reviewer: Katheryn Sall.
located in
Philadelphia,
US
Our experience with Equator Trekking was nothing short of phenomenal. Mateo's knowledge and charisma were the perfect formula for an eye-opening, educational, and most importantly fun trip. It felt like we got to see all different aspects of Ecuador-- from the booming metropolis to beautiful small towns to wilderness. We definitely plan on returning and working with Equatortrekking.com again in the future. Thanks, guys!
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Reviewer: Ziggy Opoczynska
located in
London,
UK
The trip organised by equatortrekking.com was professional from start to finish, and lots of fun in-between! Mateo had organised many exciting activities, from horse-riding in the Andes to canyoning in Banos. The instructors he used were first class - very skilled, patient and friendly. Exactly what an action-loving, though not necessarily experienced, traveller would want.
Although we only had five days, Mateo managed to ensure we saw a wide variety of what Ecuador has to offer, including its magnificent volcanoes, lush landscapes, stunning beaches, along with an insider view to the Ecuadorian people - hardworking, but relaxed and warm.
All in all, the trip to Ecuador was one of the best press trips I've experienced and I can't recommend Mateo and his team highly enough.
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Reviewer: Adam Grinsell
located in
London,
UK
I had a wonderful time in Ecuador, and would love to come back as soon as I can. I didn't realise how much the country has to offer, but Mateo and his team did an excellent job of showing us the sights and making sure we were well looked after! I highly recommend any adventure holiday trip with them, especially one that takes in the beautiful coast."
Special information
- This is a custom departure, meaning this trip is offered on dates that you arrange privately with the provider. Additionally, you need to form your own private group for this trip. The itinerary and price here is just a sample. Contact the provider for detailed pricing, minimum group size, and scheduling information. For most providers, the larger the group you are traveling with, the lower the per-person cost will be.
Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer in & accommodation in Quito
Hike Ruco Pichincha for high altitude acclimatization (4.698 m / 15.413 ft)
Day 2 : In order to become acclimated first, we will visit the teleferiqo (13,123 feet), and trek to the top of the Rucu Pichincha volcano (15,413 feet). In the afternoon we will have free time.
Carihuairazo Volcano climbing adventure (5.028 m / 16.496 ft)
Day 3 : In the morning we will depart for the city of Riobamba, south of Quito. Weather permitting we may get a view of the Chimborazo Volcano, the highest mountain in Ecuador. We will approach the Carihuairazo through the Valley of Michauasca. It is here that the Andean alpaca was reintroduced years before. When we arrive, we will set up camp and have lunch at the foot of the Carihuairazo and Chimborazo. In the afternoon, we will have time to rest and prepare our equipment before departing to the top of the mountain.
Day 4 : At dawn, we will enjoy a light breakfast and start our ascent. It will take between 5 to 6 hours to reach the top of the mountain. Most of the journey will be through highlands and rocks. During the last hours, we will climb the glacier to the top of the Carihuarazo. The trek toward base camp will take about 2 to 3 hours. Later we will go to the Cotopaxi National Park to have lunch and spend the night in a mountain lodge at the south face of the Cotopaxi.
Cotopaxi South Face Expedition (5.897 m /19.347 feet)
Day 5 : Early in the morning, we will go to the south face of the Cotopaxi volcano. The 2 hour drive will take us through the beautiful sites in the National Park. We will reach the parking lot of the refuge, where the porters will be waiting for us. The porters will take our equipment to base camp. The trek will take about 2 to 3 hours. In the afternoon, we will be able to rest, relax, prepare our equipment, have lunch, dinner and conserve our energy for the evenings climb.
Day 6 : Near midnight, after enjoying a light meal, we will begin our climb to the top of the mountain. The ascent will take between 6-8 hours with much of the climb consisting of glaciers. After summiting the highest active volcano of the world, we will begin our descent to base camp (4-6 hours). Once at base camp, we will prepare for our return to the cars and then our trip back to Quito.
Day 7 : Transfer out
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