Cotopaxi 5897 m. / 19,342 ft.

The conical shape of the “Neck of the Moon” raises up to 5897 m / 19,342 ft. and is the second highest peak in Ecuador and without doubt the most beautiful in the country.

Its geographical position grants Cotopaxi the more clear days than any of the other glaciated mountains in Ecuador.

Because of the high number of clear days, its relatively easy route and access from Quito, Cotopaxi has become the most popular mountain of Ecuador.

Itinerary

From the hut at 4860 m / 15,940 ft. we will hike up a moderate scree slope for one hour until the entrance of the glacier. After an interesting glacier travel we will deal with a couple of steeper sections (45 degrees) which will take 4 hours then arrive to the Yanasacha wall (18,696 ft. / 5,700 m.). From there it is about 1:30 hour climb to the summit. Once on the top we can observe the crater and far in the south the impressive mountains on the "Avenue of The Volcanoes", including Chimborazo, Cayambe, Antisana and Ilinizas. The climb normally takes 6 to 7 hours to the summit and 2-3 hours descend to the hut. Day 1. Departure from Quito at 09:00 then drive to the national park and arrival to the mountain hut at around 2 pm. Skill review in the afternoon Early dinner at 5:30 pm Overnight Day 2. Departure from the refuge around 1 am Summit at around 7 am Descend to the hut Rest, repack and snack Return to Quito