Cotopaxi 2-day guided ascent, Ecuador

Conquer the snow-covered coned volcano peak of Cotopaxi, Ecuador’s second highest peak that soars to 5,897 meters (19,347ft).

Just 55 kilometres (34 miles) south of Quito, the region is famous for its incredibly clear weather due to its geography. So for most climbs you will be able to witness beautiful panoramas of the Andean landscape, like the surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Reach the summit and enjoy incredible views of the Cotopaxi crater, which measures 800 meters (2,624ft) in diameter, and releases a steady stream of gases and steam.

Being an active volcano, Cotopaxi erupts roughly every 100 years. The last eruption lasted from August 2015 to January 2016, but the first ever recorded was in 1534 during the Spanish conquest.

It once erupted during a battle between the Spanish conquistadors and the Incas that caused both sides to run for their lives. For the Incas, Cotopaxi was a significant spiritual symbol, and believed the eruption was an ominous sign. The Spaniards, who had never experienced volcanic activity, were simply terrified of its deadly powers.

Wilhelm Reiss, a German geologist, and Angel Escobar, from Colombia, were the first to climb the rim of the crater in 1872. Their ascent took them over a lava flow that was still warm. In 1880, Edward Whymper, a British mountaineer, climbed Cotopaxi from the north, which to this day is the most popular route to the summit.

Because of the region’s stable weather conditions, it’s possible to access the summit all year round. The level for this trip is not technically difficult, although there is one section that contains snow bridge crossings and complex crevasse patterns, requiring ice climbing gear. And in general, potential participants need a good level of fitness.

Reserve your place now to conquer Ecuador’s second highest peak, the active volcano of Cotopaxi, and witness the incredible force of nature on this 2-day guide.