Cotopaxi - Chimborazo Ascent
Highlights:
- The ascent of two volcanoes Cotopaxi and Chimborazo, at more than 20,702 feet accompanied by a high mountain guide for every two participants.
- The discovery of "the valley of the volcanoes" and the altiplano: mountains, lakes, cities and markets.
- Comfort, with quality lodging.
- An excellent quality/price ratio (entrance to parks, churches and all meals included).
| Duration: | 13 days | ||||||||||||
| Group size: | 4 to 8 persons | ||||||||||||
| Available Dates and Costs From: | |||||||||||||
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What's Included:
- Meeting/ assisting at airport
- Experienced Mountain World Travel English speaking guide(s) and High Mountain Guide(s)
- Private transportation throughout the trip including transfers
- Lodging in mentioned hotels and lodges or equivalent, based on double occupancy
- Full board during the entire trip (from dinner Day 1 to breakfast Day 9), including mineral water
- Entrance fees for parks & sites included in the program.
A superb vision of the Andean mountain range and its culture: the sumptuous panoramas during the volcanoes' ascents (summits up to 19,347 and 20,702 feet) and the visit to its traditional cities, villages and markets.
South America, Ecuador
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.
Trip Summary
About the Adventure
Itinerary
- 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.
Detailed Itinerary
The Adventure
Itinerary
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.
Itinerary Notes
- 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.
Luggage Tips
Staff
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.
Transportation
Lodging
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.
Food and Beverages
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.
Additional Information
Important Information
What's Not Included
- 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".
Extra Costs
- 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".
Air Travel
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.
Foreign-Entry Requirements
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.
Health and First Aid
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
Physical Preparation
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.
Equipment
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).
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