Cotopaxi - Chimborazo Ascent

From the Amazon jungle to the glaciers fields beyond 16,404 feet or the Pacific Coast; the variety of landscape just astonishes the visitors. The villages, the people and their way of life adapted to the environment present a rich diversity. This succession of contrasts surprises at every moment. The volcanic activity, currently intense, adds a particular attraction to this country.

Purpose of this trip: the ascent of Cotopaxi (10,347 feet) and Chimborazo (20,702 feet). The duration of this trip allows ideal altitude acclimatization with the ascent of several easier peaks prior to our climbing these two volcanoes. In between climbs, we will have some days to discover the different aspects of this high Andean country.

• Day 1/  Arrival in Quito
• Day 2/  Visit Quito, Otavalo
• Day 3/  Fuya Fuya, laguna Cuicocha
• Day 4/  Imbabura (15,125 feet)
• Day 5/  Otavalo market, Lloa
• Day 6/  Guagua Pichincha (active volcano)
• Day 7/  Iliniza North (16,817 feet)
• Day 8/  Refuge Cotopaxi
• Day 9/  Ascent Cotopaxi (19,347 feet), Banos
• Day 10/  Banos (thermal pools, relaxing), Riobamba
• Day 11/  Refuge Chimborazo
• Day 12/  Ascent Chimborazo (20,702 feet), Quito
• Day 13/  Depart from Quito.

A country of altitude... Way above the clouds of the Amazonian basin, the avenue of the Volcanos is a long and narrow high plateau, framed by two alignments of sparkling volcanic cones. On their sides, a very rural population cultivates a mosaic of tiny fields. When one has a love for mountains, you can not help but be drawn for these summits! Strange effects of volcanicity, motivating altitudes... higher than 16,000 feet... higher than 19,000 feet; these prestigious names such as: Cotopaxi (19,347 feet) and Chimborazo (20,702 feet). Cotopaxi, one says is the most active volcanoe on the planet. A nearly perfect cone, covered with glaciers approximately 3,300 feet high. Chimborazo, is any easy and quick approach from Quito. One says it is the furthest one away from earth center. A superb challenge, for well trained mountain dwellers. For altitude acclimatization, we ascend four "dry" volcanos, Fuya Fuya (13,986 feet), Imbabura (15,125 feet), Guagua Pichincha (15,738 feet) and northern Illiniza (16,817 feet). They all reserve unspoiled views on the nevados. Between two glacial volcanos, one can find the exuberance of an exceptional Indian market, all part of Quito, one of the most beautiful cities of the Americas... It is all that, our Ecuador! General comfort throughout the voyage (excellent lodging, no camping) and the particularly gradual altitude acclimatization of this short program makes it possible to put all chances of success on our side!!!!

Day 1/  Arrival in Quito
Arrive in Quito at Mariscal Sucre Airport; you can arrive in the afternoon or night. You will be met at the airport and transferred to an elegant five-star hotel with many amenities, including a beautiful spa and indoor/outdoor swimming pools. Hotel Grand Mercure Alameda or Hilton Colon or similar.

Day 2/  Quito - City Tour -Cable car - Otavalo
After a delicious breakfast, explore Quito: a town built on the ruins of an INCA city by Spanish invaders. Quito has maintained an undeniable colonial flavor.  It is the first city in the world declared "Cultural heritage of the world" by UNESCO, its historical center boasts over sixty churches and convents, which earned the nickname "Florence of the Americas".  After learning about Quito and its culture, you will have a short transfer to visit the cable car (teleferico) for a splendid view of Quito, we'll go from Occidental Avenue (9,678') to Cruz Loma over Pichincha volcano (13,287').  After that we will head towards Panecillo, a hill that dominates the city, where we will discover the famous religious statue, the Virgin of Quito.   In the afternoon we will drive about 2 hours to Otavalo. Hacienda Puerto Lago (or similar).

Day 3/  Otavalo - Fuya Fuya - Cuicocha - Otavalo
After breakfast we will hike to the top of Fuya Fuya (13,986 feet), located at the foot of Mojanda lagoon, it offers splendid panoramas and a chance to see condors circling overhead, which quickly allows us to forget the steep path.  After we will have a short transfer by bus (approximately one hour) we will visit Cuicocha's lagoon that is located in the crater, which was formed on the sides of the Cotacachi volcano (16,194 feet). This lagoon with two small islands, seemingly floating in the middle, offers wildly varied flora (orchids, "elephant's ears") and splendid views Imbabura's province.
Circling on a great looping path, the modest altitude allows us moderate acclimatization. From the highest point (11,155 feet), we enjoy a very beautiful view of Otavalo and the volcano Imbabura. 3 - 4 hours walk. Hacienda Puerto Lago (or similar).

Day 4/  Otavalo - Imbabura - Otavalo
After breakfast a short car ride approximately one hour to begin the 5/6 hours climb towards the summit of the volcano Imbabura (15,125 feet). No technical difficulties except the altitude gain.  A very nice view of countryside. Hacienda Puerto Lago (or similar).

Day 5/  Otavalo Market - Quito
On Saturdays, it is Otavalo and nowhere else! This is one of the highlights of the trip. The entire region takes part in the most colorful and famous market of Latin America.
We will enjoy the animated bargaining for animals, weavings, fruits, vegetables and crafts. The inhabitants have maintained their original way of life and traditions. The local people of Otavalo are among the most prosperous, indigenous groups and they sell their wares in all corners of Ecuador and the world.
In the afternoon we drive approximately 2 hours to our destination Quito. Hotel Grand Mercure Alameda or Hilton Colon or similar.

Day 6/  Quito - Guagua Pichincha - Lasso
Early morning, to take advantage of a wonderful view of Quito, we depart for the Pichincha refuge (approximately two hours drive).
From this point, we will walk in the direction of the crater (1 mile in diameter and 2,300 feet deep) and then to the principal summit. This volcano, which dominates Quito, is well known for its eruptions. Sometimes it fills the sky with ashes. The crater is always in activity: smoke and gas, sulfur deposits and boiling water.
A 2 - 4 hour walk.  In the afternoon, transfer to Lasso.

Day 7/  Lasso - Iliniza North (16,817 feet) - Tambopaxi
After breakfast we will have a nice climb without special technical difficulties. Besides the great views, this mountain is the second step in the acclimatization process. A 6 - 7 hour walk. Tambopaxi is an acclimatization center located at 12,303 feet at the foot of the volcano.

Day 8/  Tambopaxi - Refuge Cotopaxi
The National park is located at the foot of the Cotopaxi volcano at 19,347 feet which, with its perfect snow covered cone, is the world's highest active volcano.
We cross the park, leaving behind us herds of wild horses, in order to begin the climb to the refuge. From this point located at 15,748 feet, we walk to the glacier, which is very impressive and relatively easy to access.

Day 9/  Cotopaxi Summit - Baños
Nothing complicated for this glacial rise after our good acclimatization process. Some years, certain crevasses require more attention.
Often the snow is deep and powdery, which delays the climbing. It is necessary to count on a 7 to 8 hour climb to reap the benefits: the remarkable spectacle of the crater which one says is the most beautiful being in the world; in any case, the highest active volcano of the planet.
After that, return to the hut and exit the Cotopaxi park.
Transfer about 2 or 3 hours to Baños. Volcano Hotel or La Floresta Hotel or similar.

Day 10/  Baños - Riobamba
Located in a subtropical area at 5,905 feet high and at the foot of the volcano Tungurahua at 16,456 feet. The charming little town of Baños,  is well known for its thermal spring's swimming pools, an ideal place to relax.
You will have a chance to see numerous sugar cane, mandarin and blackberry plantations. Furthermore, you will discover the city center, the cathedral, the balsa and tagua (vegetal ivory) workrooms.
As an option for enthusiastic athletes, we can enjoy a thrilling downhill mountain bike ride along the road leading to the Amazon, passing amazing waterfalls and spectacular canyons. Horse back riding or walking is also possible.  In the afternoon transfer to Riobamba. Hosteria Abraspungo or similar.

Day 11/  Riobamba - Refuge Chimborazo
After breakfast, car transfer up to 15,748 feet high where the road stops. From this point, one hour to go to the Edward Whymper hut, located at 16,404 feet. It is the highest, relatively comfortable, hut in the world.

Day 12/  Chimborazo Summit - Quito
Very early departure (around 1:00am); it is necessary to be in excellent shape to climb Chimborazo 4,300 feet of altitude gain.
The climbing is not easy, glacial for two thirds, but what a beautiful objective to summit the highest point in the country. Chimborazo used to be known as the highest mountain on earth... before the Himalayas summits were discovered. 8 - 12 hours strenuous climb.
In the afternoon transfer to Quito around 3 to 4 hours of driving. Hotel Grand Mercure Alameda or Hilton Colon or similar.

Day 13/  Depart from Quito
Transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flight.

• For different reasons involving trip organization, daily schedules and planned altitude gains (ascent or descent) may be modified without any prior  notice. 
• The walking time schedules are given only as an estimate.
• The Otavalo market takes place only on Saturdays. The program takes this into account.

During the treks, all of your belongings are dispatched between a back pack and/or traveling bag carried during our walks.  Each participant walks with a light back pack, carrying only the personal items necessary for the half day (water bottle, camera, protective clothing, etc). Transport is ensured by the vehicle of assistance and the logistic team during the excursions.

The guide
- an English-speaking professional Ecuadorian Mountain World Travel guide. For the ascents of two volcanoes Cotopaxi and Chimborazo: a high mountain guide for every two participants.
- a driver in charge of the bus.

The airport/hotel transfer and all other transportation are organized through private tourism Bus vehicles.

Due to our goal of providing quality accommodations, we seek charming and reputable places located in the middle of the most beautiful landscapes, on the most beautiful view-points or close to the departure of the excursions.
In the cities, we book hotels and hosterias of excellent standard, Quito 5 stars, Baños and Otávalo 4 stars, based on double occupancy and according to availability at the time of reservation.
We choose these hotels, not only for the excellent price/quality ratio, but also for their cordiality and hospitality.

In the mountains, two nighs in huts (Cotopaxi, Chimborazo), shared accomodation.

The names of accommodations (hotels, lodges, etc...) when they are indicated, are only indicative.
Depending on availability, accommodations (hotels/Lodges, etc...) may be replaced by another equivalent type.
It is possible that accommodations may change without prior notice due to a number of factors.

Downtown, breakfast at the accommodation's restaurant, dinner at the restaurant.
Lunch, taken on the way in the form of a picnic or in a restaurant depending on the day and circumstances.
In the mountains, we want to be able to provide you with well balanced/hearty meals to keep you well fueled during your exertions, but at the same time keep the weight in the bags that we carry to a minimum.
- Breakfasts are prepared by our hosts or by the guide (cook) in the huts.
- Lunch: picnic, in the form of sandwiches, cheese and fruits.
- Energy food (an assortment of chocolate bars to accompany you in the effort) provided by Mountain World Travel.
Beverages, mineral water provided during transfer and in restaurant.

Although we are an experienced adventure travel company doing our best to respect the itinerary schedule as presented on this detailed itinerary, there is always the possibility that we may need to modify it for different reasons beyond our control. Please read the Registration Conditions: Terms and Booking conditions – Limitations of Liability

• International flights in/out Quito
• All services mentioned in Services +/extensions/options.
• Personal medical & Travel Insurance
• All items not expressively mentioned in "What's included".

• Drinks (except mineral water during meals)
• Personal expenses.
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Airport tax (to date 41 USD$ per person)
• All items not expressively mentioned in "What's included".

As airfare is NOT included in our adventures, please check if your trip is "a guaranteed departure" before confirming your own airline travel arrangements. You can check your trip status at the Mountain World Travel website or contact the Mountain World Travel office at 1 888-MWT-TREK (698-8735).

Our preferred airlines to fly to Quito are:
-    American Airlines: daily flights from anywhere in the States through Miami
-    Continental: daily flights from anywhere in the States through Houston
-    Avianca: daily flights from Miami
-    or LAN (Oneworld), etc.

Formalities for US, Canada, EU, Australia, NZ passports travelers: a passport valid at least 6 months after the supposed return date of your journey; no visa needed for a stay up to 90 days.
For US citizens, please check with  US Government Travel Entry Exit Requirements.
For other nationalities, please contact the Ecuador embassy of your country.

We advise you, however, to be up date with traditional vaccinations: diphtheria, tetanus, polio, typhoid fever, hepatitis.
Visit: US Department of Health

Dentist and doctor
A check up before your departure is recommended.

Acclimatization and preventive treatment against altitude sickness
We conceive our routes by respecting the best possible “stages of acclimatization”. However, it is preferable to consider, with your doctor, a preventive treatment against altitude sickness (Diamox) and to check your capacity to evolve in altitude (specific tests may be considered).
Please visit: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/yellowBookCh6-AltitudeIllness.aspx

LEVEL 6
At least 4 months prior: Hike over 13 miles every weekend or on two consecutive days, carrying a backpack of 18 to 22 pounds AND you should be engaged in another intense sports activity that develops endurance on a year round basis.

Attention to cold temperatures at the top of the summit amplified by the wind.

Basic Equipment
- Thermal underwear (fast drying)
- Thin thermal fleece turtle neck
- A warm fleece jacket in fleece (light weight/well insulated).
- A mountaineering jacket and a down jacket .
- Mountaineering pants.
- Thermal long underwear.
- A ski hat and a neck gaiter.
- A cap or a hat to protect from the sun.
- Very good ski sunglasses with side protections.
- A ski mask for the summit.
- A pair of warm/waterproof technical mountaineering Gore-Tex gloves (double lawyer of down)) or a pair of Gore-Tex over-mittens and warm under-gloves.
- A pair of replacement gloves.
- A rain poncho
- A survival blanket (reinforced model).
- A water bottle (no Camelback, as tube will freeze).
- Hand and foot warmers

Shoes and technical material
- Shoes with rigid soles compatible for crampons.
- Thermal Socks
- A head lamp.
- Waterproof/breathable Over-pants (Gore-Tex).
- A pair of gaiters.
- A pair of telescopic walking poles (optional).
- A pair of crampons with "antibottes" (rubber plates preventing snow from balling up underfoot).
- An ice axe.
- Mountaineering helmet.
- An adjustable, light and compact harness, adapted for walking.
- A locking carabiner, for rope maneuvers.
- Slings and cordelettes.

Sleeping
- Sleeping bag (that will keep you warm from a temperature of 23° F to 32° F).

Pharmacy
- You own small "pharmacy" to have validated by your Doctor. It should contain: sun lotion, bandages, sterile strips and double skin, anti diarrhea medication, pain killers, an anti inflammatory, a muscle relaxant, eye lotion, cough drops, a broad spectrum antibiotic, disinfectant, tweezers, personal ear plugs, and personal drugs. And anything else indicated on the "Trip Details" page or in "Important Information" (including necessary items to treat altitude sickness).
- However, it is preferable to consider, with your doctor, a preventive treatment against altitude sickness (Diamox) and to check your capacity to evolve in altitude (specific tests may be considered).

Luggage
- A robust and technical back pack of a capacity of 11 to 14 pounds

Miscellaneous
- A pair of replacement shoe laces
- A dop-kit and a bath towel.
- Toilet paper.
- A pocket knife
- Some plastic bags to protect your belongings.
- Duct tape
- A small pocket anti-theft protection device, to always keep on yourself, along with your identity papers, money, certificate of insurance. 

Some advice
During your flight your back pack should contain fragile and useful items that you might need while on the plane (camera, memory cards, jacket, books, magazines, medication, dop-kit etc).

Ecuador, an Andean patchwork
A small country on the scale of South America, Ecuador is nonetheless a plethora of the most beautiful landscapes! From the Pacific to the depths of Amazonia, it offers an astonishing diversity, from the tropical forests to the glacial fields at 20,702 feet. The volcanic activity, currently intense, adds a particular attraction to this country already rich in natural wonders. It is in the central zone, made up of cordilleras and volcanoes where the majority of our trip is concentrated: crater lakes, excursions in the national parks, visits to famous Inca sites, ascent of the high Ecuadorian summits, villages and their way of life  so well adapted to the environment, colorful markets... A succession of contrasts awaits you, and will surprise you at every moment. A very complete, ideal destination for the true hiker!

• The broadest choice of adventures, from family adventures to the ascent of the highest volcanoes.
• Guarantee of a highly reliable and professional organization and team, thanks to our agency in Quito.
• Services of high quality: comfortable and charming lodging, parks and site entry fee included in the price, along with high quality meals and utility equipment.
• Excellent knowledge of the terrain, thanks to our more than 20 years of experience in the country.

It is easy to travel year round to Ecuador, because there is not much fluctuation between seasons. On the other hand, climate change is evident in the frequent sun alternations accompanied by heavy showers. Sometimes, strong variations in temperatures can occur during the same day, depending on the intensity of the sun or the wind on the mountains. Well equipped, these changes are easily managed.

Quito, the capital, located in the volcano zone, at 8,850 feet of altitude, has average temperatures of 50°F at night. At the time of the excursions (Otávalo, Pichincha, Cotopaxi and of Chimborazo), it can freeze or snow during the night.

• In the mountains: the weather can be cold in altitude.

• In Amazonia and on the peaceful coast: heat and moisture all year round.

Average temperatures in Quito(day maximum/night minimum) in Fahrenheit degrees:

Jan	Feb	March	April	May	June
66/50	66/50	66/50	66/51	66/51	66/60
July	August	Sept	Oct	Nov	Dec
68/55	68/54	68/49	67/49	67/49	66/50

Population	14 millions habitants
Surface	98,985 squares miles
Capital	Quito
Main Cities	Guayaquil, Quito, Cuenca
Peaks	Chimborazo (20,700 feet) - Cotopaxi (19,347 feet)
Official Language	Spanish
Local Language	Quechua and dialects in the remote areas
Religion	Catholic religion
Head of the state	Rafael Correa
Political Status	Republic
Time Shift	http://www.worldtimezone.com/utc/utc-0500.html

The currency is the American dollar (the old local currency, sugar, disappeared in September 2000)We advise you to carry American dollars in small increments, un-damaged. Credit cards are accepted in the main cities, and there are ATM machines in Quito, Otávalo and Baños.

As an organizer of worldwide trips, Mountain World Travel is concerned for our guest's safety and security. We always keep ourselves up to date with current travel warnings and always consider the government safety advices, while organizing and preparing our different trips.
Please double check on the official government website regarding each country's warnings.
US Government Travel Advices

The Ecuadorian project was an extremely tempting project which attracted the founders of Mountain World Travel in Ecuador, at the end of the Eighties. The relatively easy ascent of the large glacial volcano, Chimborazo, its summit, at 20,000 feet was quite a lure. We could not help but fall under the charm of this country, so small on surface, but so rich in all that is Latin America flavor: fabulous landscapes, colored markets, the Indians' smiles, architectural richness... we could not wait to share all of these treasures. We are now proud to offer this destination to you.

We created this beautiful adventure by combining our expertise with Beto and Carole. Beto is an Ecuadorian native, a local guide and experienced mountaineer alpinist. Carole, his wife is a French native passionate for the country of Ecuador.

Beto, at the time of our meeting, was one of our local guides. He and Carole approached us on the spot about providing their services to our adventure travel organization.

Impassioned by treks and Ecuador, Beto traverses his country in all directions and shares common values with Mountain World Travel.

Beto introduced us to Carole, his French wife, who he met during a trip where Beto was the group leader!Since 2001, Beto and Carole have been our adventure travel representatives in Quito.

Today, they are managing a dynamic team of group leaders passionate of their volcanoes. Since then, our two friends invest themselves each day to perfect our adventures in Ecuador. They animate a team of qualified and motivated local guides, with whom they can share their love of the country and of hiking.

Being a responsible tourism company and considering the environmental problems encountered in certain national parks of Ecuador, in 2006 we worked together with Carole and Beto for the installation of toilets in the Cotopaxi park, the crossing point of all the Mountain World Travel groups. The project received the support of the Department of the Environment, proving its effectiveness and this, in turn, awakened the local authorities. The toilets are thus in place at the two entries of the Park and operational for the 2007 season at the southern entry, as well.

Generally, Spanish is spoken by all of the population. The local language, quechua and other dialects are used in the remote areas. English is spoken by those in tourism related work. Learning some Spanish key words will enable you to gain the respect of your interlocutors and to facilitate your exchanges with the Ecuadorians.
Do not hesitate to use the following expressions:
Hello, how are you? : Buenos días, cómo está?
Very well, thank you: muy bien, gracias
Please: por favor
Thank you: gracias
Goodbye: Hasta luego
Yes: sí - Not: No
Excuse me: discúlpeme
You can ask your guide how to pronounce these key words; your voyage will only be richer by your attempting to speak the local language.
And smile, it is often the best means of having good contacts!

The Ecuadorian population is made up of a mosaic of ethnic groups. The many Indian markets reflect this great diversity. Mongrels, Indians and pure Castilian live in good harmony. You will be able to admire, in Quito, a great number of churches, the jewels of colonial architecture.

Advice from Beto and Carole, our specialists in Ecuador:
We kindly request you to respect the goods of the peasants, in particular to remain on the edge of the fields when we walk in the country side.The flora is of an incredible diversity in this country which, because of its geographical contrasts, shelters thousands of plants, tropical or Andean... Ecuador also counts a very rich fauna. Thank you for your respect.

What precautions should one take during a trip to Ecuador? Although the situation has degraded slightly during the last few years, Ecuador remains a safe country, in general, if a minimum of precautions are taken. We advise you, for example, to avoid, as far as possible, carrying valuable articles. The theft risk exists, it is appropriate not to flash one's wealth, to be vigilant in the areas that we visit (markets, downtown areas...) and to leave money and valuables in the safes at the hotels. Don't hesitate to ask your guide which places one should be particularly attentive to and the areas that one should avoid.

US electrical devices are compatible with Ecuadorian electrical plugs. We recommend you do not carry an adapter, because the plugs are 110 volts ones, as in the United States.

Where to buy the most beautiful souvenirs?
The Indian craft industry is very rich (weaving, leather, pottery...). Do not forget however that it is forbidden to buy souvenirs such as pre-Columbian artifacts. If you have a doubt, ask your guide. At the markets, you will not be able to resist purchasing a naïve painting sharp in color, a geometrical weave or an alpaca sweater. The richness of the craft industry reflects the cultural development of this country. Do not hesitate to buy over at the famous colorful market of Otávalo, which animates the neighborhood each Saturday. All of our circuits pass through here. Quito is also an excellent place to make your purchases.

Ecuador is a formidable kaleidoscope of landscapes, from the Andes cordillera to the immense Amazonia, while passing by the valley of the volcanoes.
In order to not leave your garbage behind you, please remember to always carry with you a little bag for your personal waste: bring it back to the next hotel or camp.
Separate your waste: do not to leave behind those very polluting items such as batteries, etc... but, instead, bring them back home with you, as there is no recycling for this type of material in Ecuador.
In the camp sites, use the toilets or toilet-tents.