Ecuador · Mountain Exploration

2-Day Cotopaxi Climbing Tour from Quito with Sunrise Summit

2 Days Round trip from Quito Hard pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Climb Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes
02 Stay at José Ribas Refuge for acclimatisation and glacier skills practice
03 Enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes and surrounding volcanoes
04 Reach the summit at sunrise after a night ascent through snow and ice

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the summit of Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, standing at 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. This 2-day climb is designed for adventurers with good physical condition and some high-altitude trekking experience.

After 6-8 hours of climbing, you'll reach the summit at sunrise, taking in breathtaking views of the Andes and surrounding volcanoes.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Hard

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Not included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Quito, Cotopaxi National Park

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival, Acclimatisation and Refuge Preparation

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Quito to Cotopaxi National Park.
After registration, we drive up to the José Ribas Refuge at 4,800 meters.
Here, you'll have time to rest, enjoy a hot meal, and prepare your gear.
The guide will give a detailed briefing and conduct a short glacier skills practice if needed.
Early to bed for a midnight start.

Day 02

Midnight Ascent, Summit and Return to Quito

Climbing begins around midnight.
With crampons, harness, and headlamp, you'll ascend through snow and ice under the stars.
After 6-8 hours of climbing, you'll reach the summit at sunrise, taking in breathtaking views of the Andes and surrounding volcanoes.
After photos and a short rest, descend back to the refuge, then drive back to Quito, arriving in the early afternoon.