Climb Cotopaxi

SUMMITS 5000M

Climb CotopaxiGuided expedition · Ecuador

Climb Cotopaxi, at 5,897 m one of the world's most beautiful active volcanoes and among the most climbed high peaks on Earth. This guided Cotopaxi expedition takes you up a classic glacier route to a summit crater 600 m wide, with certified national mountain guides and full logistics run by PEAKS along the Avenue of the Volcanoes.

We overnight at the José Ribas refuge (4,864 m) inside Cotopaxi National Park, then start the summit push at midnight to reach the crater rim at sunrise. Guiding runs at a 1:2 ratio and we provide our own high-end technical equipment, with a full crampon, ice-axe and rope briefing before you step onto the ice.

Cotopaxi is an excellent guided glacier climb for fit climbers with some crampon experience, and a key stop in a Cotopaxi–Chimborazo acclimatisation program. Its symmetrical cone and glacier make it one of the most rewarding summits in Ecuador.

The details

Expedition facts

5,897 m / 19,347 ft

Altitude

0.6807° S, 78.4377° W

Coordinates

2 days / 1N

Duration

PD (alpine) · Intermediate–Advanced

Grade

6–8 hrs summit push (midnight start)

Daily activity

December–January & June–September (driest, most stable)

Season

Meeting point

Riobamba (pickup)

Starting from

Enquire for prices

Good aerobic fitness and some experience on crampons; prior acclimatisation strongly recommended. Attendance at the pre-climb briefing is mandatory.

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The plan

Itinerary2 days / 1 night

Day 01

Hotel pickup in Riobamba
Morning pickup and drive north along the Avenue of the Volcanoes.
Cotopaxi National Park
Register at the park and drive to the parking area (4,600 m).
José Ribas refuge (4,864 m)
Hike up to the refuge and check in.
Briefing and early dinner
Glacier and crampon briefing, gear fitting and rest.

Day 02

Midnight summit push
Rope up and climb the glacier by headlamp.
Sunrise on the glacier
Reach the upper slopes around first light.
Summit — 5,897 m crater
Summit turnaround time on the crater rim.
Descent and return
Descend to the refuge for breakfast, then drive back to Riobamba.

Transparency

What's included

Included

Certified national mountain guides (1:2 ratio available)
Hotel pickup and transport from Riobamba
National park permits
Refuge accommodation (José Ribas)
Hot drinks and hydration on the mountain
Summit photography
Pre-climb acclimatisation and training support

Not included

Technical gear rental (ice axe, crampons, harness, helmet, boots) — available from Peaks
Personal clothing (3-layer system)
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Travel and rescue insurance
Optional tips

Good to know

FAQ

Is the summit guaranteed?

No. This is a summit attempt: reaching the top depends on weather and glacier conditions, and safety comes first.

Do I need previous glacier experience?

Some crampon experience is ideal. With good fitness and acclimatisation, Cotopaxi is achievable for motivated beginners under our 1:2 guiding.

How high is the refuge?

The José Ribas refuge sits at 4,864 m; you reach it with a short hike from the parking area.

How do I book and what does it cost?

Prices are quoted on request. Enquire on WhatsApp and confirm with a non-refundable deposit.