Cotopaxi Express Climb
9‑Day Ascent to 19,347 feet / 5897 meters and Indulge on this “Eating Expedition”
You’ll climb three peaks in Ecuador, including the well-known Cotopaxi, during this whirlwind tour! These climbs offer an excellent introduction to glacier mountaineering and high altitude climbing for those with little to no experience or as a great getaway for experienced climbers with little time. Squeeze just three more days into your itinerary and climb Chimborazo – the highest point in Ecuador!
Mountain Madness-style defined/More Services provided
Food is love and we love food! Sampling local Ecuadorian cuisine is an interesting part of this expedition, that’s why Mountain Madness makes eating an important element of this trip- and with a few exceptions, all meals are included so you can relax and enjoy the experience! Likewise, all overnights are included in the cost and feature carefully chosen haciendas where you can enjoy the ambience of comforts of Ecuadorian hospitality in fine style.
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Trip Perks
Cotopaxi Express 3‑Peak Climb in Ecuador: What to Expect
Your trip to Ecuador begins at the Hacienda Rumiloma. This unique hacienda will help you settle into the Ecuador countryside quite comfortably. Each casita boasts a minimum of 600 square feet and is filled with a unique mix of antiques, art and collectibles from the far corners of Ecuador. As you travel further into the mountains you’ll stay in some of Ecuador’s other distinctive haciendas. Built during the colonial period, these historic settlements offer excellent living and dining accommodations. Most haciendas still operate as ranches, farms or plantations, making your stay an excellent opportunity to observe working life in Ecuador.
And the food is incredible at the Rumiloma and throughout your trip. When all is said and done, you’ll understand why we call our adventures in Ecuador “eating expeditions!”
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Description
We begin our adventure in Ecuador with an orientation in Quito (9,350 ft / 2850 m), the world’s second highest capital after La Paz, Bolivia. As an added attraction to this wonderful trip we will be staying in charming haciendas and enjoying the fine cuisine Ecuador offers visitors.
We begin to acclimatize by hiking and an easy ascent of El Corazon. We then move up to the Illinizas where we have an opportunity to review skills and climb the north peak. The ascent of Illiniza Norte offers enjoyable rock scrambling (class three) and ascends a scenic ridge with outstanding views of the south peak, Cotopaxi, and Antisana. After our ascent we descend to the valley and enjoy the comforts of a hot shower, excellent dining, and a warm bed. Then it’s off to Cotopaxi, the world’s highest active volcano.
Cotopaxi stands at 19,347 feet / 5897 meters in Ecuador’s Central Cordillera and towers high above three other major peaks, Ruminahui (15,602 ft / 4755 m), Sincholagua (16,360 ft / 4987 m), Quilindana (16,134 ft / 4918 m) and the paramo, an area reminiscent of the Scottish moors. After your acclimatization ascents we drive into Cotopaxi National Park, first passing through pine forests and then moving through more open country. You will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of animals, such as wild horses, llamas, and an abundance of bird life. These and many other exciting species of mammals and birds inhabit this unique ecological zone.
From the paramo we will drive to 15,092 feet / 4600 meters where we begin our travel by foot. A forty-five minute hike brings us to the Jose Ribas Hut (15,748 ft / 4800 m) at the base of Cotopaxi. Leaving in the early morning hours, we begin our summit attempt on non-glaciated snow slopes to reach the glacial platform at 17,000 feet / 5182 meters. As the morning progresses, we watch the sunrise over the low clouds that cover the parkland and tropical forests far below. To the north we will be treated to views of the heavily glaciated, 18,714-foot / 5704-meter Antisana.
After we rope up, we travel over more complex areas of the glacier, crossing snow bridges, skirting large crevasses, and ascending moderate terrain and various short, steep slopes to reach the summit cone. Once there, 35 – 40 degree snow slopes and a short ridge walk brings us onto Ecuador’s second highest summit. From the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of nine major equatorial peaks, the endless Amazon Basin, and Cotopaxi’s 1000-foot / 305-meter deep, active crater. And to wrap things up, one more delicious meal — a celebration dinner in Quito. Confirm your trip early — the Rumiloma has only seven rooms!
Explore volcanoes around Ecuador and sign up for our 11-Day Cayambe and Cotopaxi Trip or add on three days and tackle the Chimborazo Extension, too.
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Chimborazo Extension With Bonus High Camp
As if climbing a 6,000+ meter/20,700-foo peakt isn’t a tall enough order by itself, you will be attempting it after having climbed several other peaks as part of your acclimatization program; so while you may be feeling more acclimatized, you will still be somewhat tired. Previously our climbs of Chimborazo began in the early hours of the night from the Whymper Hut, giving climbers a more than 4,000-foot/1200+-meter ascent. This proved very difficult for many. As a result we are now using a high camp to help our teams get the best possible advantage at reaching the summit, cutting the summit climb in almost half.
![Chimborazo camp before summit day]()
Have a Question? Contact Us!
Price
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Cotopaxi/Cayambe Express
$3,875 – 9 Days / Includes travel time
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Single Supplement (I want my own room) – $550
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Cotopaxi Express w/Chimborazo Extension
$4,975 – 12 Days / Includes travel time
Minimum 2 participants
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Single Supplement (I want my own room) with Chimborazo Extension – $600
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Climbing permit fees
- Two scheduled hotel nights in Quito(double occupancy)
- One additional hotel night in Quito (double occupancy) for the Chimborazo extension
- Three scheduled hacienda nights (double occupancy)
- One additional hacienda night (double occupancy) for the Chimborazo extension
- Scheduled restaurant meals in Quito
- All food while on the climb
- All group climbing gear, tents and cooking gear
- All expedition staff including porters and pack animals
- Airport transfers
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Ecuador entry visa and airport fees
- Meals Day 1
- Lunch Day 2
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Personal climbing gear and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Note: Should Cotopaxi be closed due to volcanic activity, alternatives include climbs in the Illinizas or on Antisana.
Dates
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Cotopaxi Express 2024 - 2025
- Nov 23, 2024 — Dec 1, 2024
- Dec 7, 2024 — Dec 15, 2024
- Dec 28, 2024 — Jan 5, 2025
- Jan 25, 2025 — Feb 2, 2025
- Feb 15, 2025 — Feb 24, 2025
- Jun 28, 2025 — Jul 6, 2025
- Nov 8, 2025 — Nov 17, 2025
- Dec 13, 2025 — Dec 22, 2025
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w/ Chimborazo Extension 2024 - 2025
- Nov 23, 2024 — Dec 4, 2024
- Dec 7, 2024 — Dec 18, 2024
- Dec 28, 2024 — Jan 8, 2025
- Jan 25, 2025 — Feb 5, 2025
- Jun 28, 2025 — Jul 9, 2025
- Nov 8, 2025 — Nov 19, 2025
- Dec 13, 2025 — Dec 25, 2025
Custom Dates Available — Contact Us
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with a departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip you will need to arrive in Quito, Ecuador on Day 1, which in most cases will have arrival times late evening; anywhere from 7 pm to 11:30 pm. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Cotopaxi/Cayambe Express Day by Day
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Day 1
Quito / Hacienda Rumiloma
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Arrive in Ecuador, orientation in Quito, overnight at the Hacienda Rumiloma.
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Day 2
Quito / Hacienda Rumiloma
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
City tour, equipment check, and hike, overnight at the Hacienda Rumiloma.
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Day 3
Chuquiragua Lodge
Elevation: 10,663 ft / 3250 m
Today we will climb one of Pichincha Peaks above Quito. After our climb, we’ll travel to village of Machachi and head into the foothills of the Illiniza mountains where we’ll spend the night in a cozy mountain lodge.
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Day 4
Illiniza Hut
Elevation: 15,420 ft / 4700 m
Hike to hut between Illiniza Sur and Norte. Mules will assist with the transport of our equipment so you will not be burdened with large packs. Skills review in the afternoon. Overnight camping or hut stay.
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Day 5
Chuquiragua Lodge
Elevation: 10,663 ft / 3250
Today we will climb the north peak, which provides an excellent acclimatization ascent and an enjoyable rock scramble. Views of the Avenue of the Volcanoes are impressive from here. If time permits, we will review additional skills on the south peak. After the days activities we descend to the comforts of a warm bed and a shower at Chuquiragua Lodge.
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Day 6
Jose Ribas Hut or Cayambe Hut
Elevation: 15,748 feet / 4800 meters
After driving to approximately 15,000 feet / 4572 meters, we take a short 45 minute hike to Jose Ribas Hut where we rest and prepare for our climb. If Antisana is the objective the group will either make an ascent today or prepare for the climb at base camp. If Cayambe is the objective we will drive to the hut and make preparations for the summit attempt.
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Day 7
Summit Cotopaxi / Jose Ribas Hut; or Cayambe Summit
Elevation: 8,530 ft / 2600 m — Hacienda La Cienega
Elevation: 15,748 feet / 4800 meters — Jose Ribas Hut
We will depart at 1 am and hike up the scree slopes until we arrive at the glacier. From here we ascend snow and ice, arriving at a steep section just below the crater rim. After ascending this short section, we arrive at the summit (19,347 ft / 5897 m) where we can peer into the mountain’s crater or enjoy the view of the countryside. If the second summit attempt is needed for either Cotopaxi or Caymabe, we will spend the night at the hut again.
**Note that we’re continuing to track the volcanic activity on Cotopaxi. If Cotopaxi does not reopen in advance of this program we will use Cayambe (18,997 ft / 5790 m) as an alternative objective.
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Day 8
Optional Summit Day
Elevation: 8,530 ft / 2600 m — Hacienda La Cienega
Optional summit day.
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Day 9
Fly Home or Chimborazo
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Fly home or continue on to Chimborazo.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
w/ Chimborazo Extension Day by Day
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Day 9
Chakana Lodge
Elevation: 13,123 ft / 4000 m
Drive to Chakana Lodge and spend the night.
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Day 10
Chimborazo High Camp
Elevation: 17,717 ft / 5400 m
Hike to the high camp for the climb. Rest and prepare for summit attempt.
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Day 11
Chimborazo Summit / Hacienda Rumiloma
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Leaving at midnight we will hike up the scree slopes until reaching the glacier. After a couple of steep sections on the glacier, we will arrive at the false summit. From there it is about an hour climb to the highest point in Ecuador, Chimborazo summit (20,703 ft / 6310 m). After enjoying the views we descend to vehicles and return to Quito and the Hacienda Rumiloma.
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Day 12
Fly Home
Elevation: 10,695 ft / 3260 m
Depart Quito and fly home.
Note on Itinerary: Although we do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
Equipment for Cotopaxi Express Climb
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Carrying Gear
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Summit pack (40-50L)
Lightweight as possible with a volume between 2,500-3,500 cubic inches (40-50 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Mutant 38, Black Diamond Speed 40
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Large duffel bag (150L)
One at least 7,000 cubic inch capacity (150 liters). Must be durable and waterproof
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (15-20F)
One down or synthetic bag rated from 15-20°F /-9 to -7°C
Examples:
Marmot Helium, Marmot Trestles, Western Mountaineering Apache, North Face Guide 20
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Sleeping pad (optional)
Full length inflatable for extra comfort
Examples:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir
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Climbing Gear
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Alpine climbing harness
Must have adjustable leg loops and fit over all clothing
Examples:
Black Diamond Couloir, Petzl Altitude, Petzl Hirundos
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Locking carabiners (2)
Two large, pear-shaped carabiners are best
Examples:
Black Diamond Rock Lock, Petzl William, Petzl Attache
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Belay device (plaquette)
Tube style
Examples:
Black Diamond ATC Guide, Petzl Reverso
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Mountaineering ice axe
under 5’7” use 60cm, 5’7”-6’2” use 60 or 65cm, over 6’2” use 70cm
Examples:
Black Diamond Raven, Petzl Glacier
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Crampons w/ anti-balling plate
Steel 12-pont. Must be fit to climbing boots prior to trip, new-matic/hybrid type
Examples:
Black Diamond Sabretooth, Petzl Vasak
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Climbing helmet
Lightweight
Examples:
Black Diamond Half Dome, Petzl Elios
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Glacier glasses
100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case
Examples:
Julbo
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Ski goggles
To fit over glacier glasses in high wind. Rose or amber lenses
Examples:
Smith, Oakley
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Hands
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Liner gloves
Two pairs thin fleece or synthetic
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Warm gloves
One pair fleece or wool with water resistant shell
Examples:
Outdoor Research Arete
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Expedition mitts
One pair Gore-Tex or equivalent, with textured palms and taped seams. Synthetic or down filled. Warm, heavy duty for cold temperatures
Examples:
Outdoor Research Altimitt
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Light hiking boots or trail shoes
For acclimatization hikes
Examples:
Salomon X-Ultra 3 Mid, Merrell Moab, La Sportiva Boulder Ex
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Gaiters SA
Make sure they will fit over boots (if not already integrated in boots)
Examples:
OR Crocodiles or equivalent
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Mountaineering Boots SA
Depending on your future mountaineering endeavors, your boot choice could differ. Boots such as the La Sportiva Spantik,G2 or G6, and Scarpa Phantom 6000 are a good investment for those who are pursuing other high-altitude climbs (such as Aconcagua or Denali). The Koflach Degre would be the choice for those looking for a warm boot in moderate conditions. If you are looking at hybrid leather/plastic boots, make sure it is rated for 6,000-meter peak climbs or winter mountaineering.
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water bottles with insulators
Two one-liter wide-mouthed plastic bottles
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Small stainless-steel thermos (optional)
For hot beverages on summit day
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Water purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the trip.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Snacks (general)
Bring your favorite snacks and power/energy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking and climbing
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Cotopaxi/Cayambe Express
$3,875
9 Days / Includes travel time
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Book Trip
Cotopaxi Express w/Chimborazo Extension
$4,975
12 Days / Includes travel time
Minimum 2 participants
Elevation
Cotopaxi 19,347 ft / 5897 m
Illiniza Norte 16,818 ft / 5127 m
Pichincha 15,600 ft / 4756 m
Route
Normal Route
Client to Guide Ratio
3:1
Difficulty
Advanced Beginner
Climbers should have basic snow and ice-climbing skills and should be comfortable with glacier travel, which includes moving in a rope team, self arrest, and basic crevasse rescue. Basic knowledge and experience would be required for objectives with some rock climbing.
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