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Rising majestically from the eastern cordillera of the Andes, Cotopaxi is Ecuador's most famous volcano. Edward Whymper, the first to ascend Cotopaxi, claimed its 19.342 ft symmetrical cone made it the most perfectly shaped mountain in the world. Climbing it has now become a prerequisite for any mountaineer aspiring to higher peaks.
Technically it is not a difficult mountain but, due to its cloud-piercing height, it is essential that climbers are well acclimatised, as well as physically and mentally prepared. Ice- climbing gear is also required. From its summit Cotopaxi offers a spectacular panorama; on a clear day all of Ecuador's other snow-capped peaks can be seen, as well the Amazon basin.
The gas-emitting crater, almost 800m in diameter, will certainly remind climbers that they are standing on an active volcano-one that is long overdue to erupt!
Suggested Itinerary:
Day 1: Cotopaxi National Park
We pick you up from your Hotel early in the morning and drive through the Pan-American Highway to the South. Upon arriving at the Park, we will visit the interpretation center where descriptions of the local flora and fauna as well as the history of the major eruptions of the world’s highest active volcano are provided. From the parking lot, we will begin by climbing up to the refuge (4,800 m /15,744 ft.). Back in the parking lot, we continue on to Limpiopungo Lake. During the exciting journey that we keep on our vehicle, we can admire streams and large rocks where volcanic remains are still evident. We pass the Pucará del Salitre, a strategic military fortress of the Inca Empire. The drive will then end at the farmhouse in Hacienda El Porvenir, where a delicious supper awaits us. -/L/D
Day 2: Cotopaxi refuge: (Option One)
On our final day we hike to the shelter on Cotopaxi at 4.800 m (15,748 ft). The hike takes 4 to 5 hours to reach the refuge and 15 minutes back down to the parking lot were our vehicles will pick us up to take us to Hacienda El Porvenir from where we return to Quito. B/L/-
Day 2: Horseback riding and hiking. (Option two)
A brief lesson is given in the morning at Hacienda El Porvenir to teach us how to ride and get acquainted with the horses. Wearing the typical “Chagra” attire, we will begin a visit to the foothills of Rumiñahui volcano, riding side by side with herds of wild horses and bulls. Our native guides will share their knowledge of medicinal plants. The ride takes about 4 hours. Afterwards a delicious lunch of local dishes awaits us at the farmhouse. In the afternoon we drive to Hacienda Santa Rita ecological reserve on the slopes of Pasochoa Volcano where we hike through the native Andean forest. After the hike, we return to Quito, transfer to your Hotel. B/L/-
B= Breakfast L= Lunch D= Dinner
Price 2009:
Machai (shared bathroom): USD 240.- with 2 people
Superior rooms: USD 260.- with 2 people
Suite: USD 290.- with 2 people
Tour Includes
• Lodging (based on double room)
• 4 meals
• Described activities
• Guides (bilingual and local depending on the activity)
• Basic equipment for each activity (zamarro and poncho)
• Transportation from and back to Quito (on tour days)
Tour Does Not Include
• Cotopaxi National Park entrance fee (USD10 foreigners)
• Bar and shop
• Tips
• International flight airport tax (USD 41.- per person)
If you need any additional information please write us:
Abraspungo Trekking - Altar Trekking - Antisana Trekking - El Angel Trekking - Piñan Trekking
Podocarpus National Park - The Inca Trail Tour - Trekking in the Cotopaxi & Illinizas National Park
Volcano Trekking - Volcano Multi Adventure - Cotopaxi Volcano Ride
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South America 
