Trek in Ecuador's volcanic backbone, learn ice-skills and climb Cotopaxi
The 'Avenue of the Volcanoes' is liberally sprinkled with some of the world's highest volcanic peaks.
This comprehensive trek combines serious volcano climbing with some cultural highlights. We acclimatise with the Pinan Trek amongst the rolling highlands of the Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve and ascend Yanaurco (4530m) before heading south to climb Imbabura Volcano.
We visit the Indian market at Otavalo before practicing our ice-skills on Cayambe Volcano's glaciers, the only ones in the world that cross the equator.
The focus of this trek is the tough but non-technical ascent of Cotopaxi (5897m), the world's second highest active volcano.
Our acclimatisation is carefully planned and along with thorough ice-skill training and a client to guide ratio of 2:1 on Cotoapaxi, we have the best chance of reaching this spectacular summit.
NB: Whilst this trip is graded C, please note that the Cotopaxi climb (included in the price, but optional for all clients) is Grade D - Tough.
What makes this trip responsible?
On this trip all services are contracted locally (guides, boats, restaurants, hotels and transport) and all food is bought locally as much as is possible, thus keeping money in the local community. Our local operator is verified by the Rainforest Alliance and committed to improving their environmental, social and economic practices.
Countries visited: Ecuador
Trip Notes contain all the detailed information you need. A full day by day itinerary, accommodation details, guides and other practical information. Download Now
Images from AVENUE OF THE VOLCANOES
Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.
On top of Cotopaxi.
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