Two Day Acclimatization Hike Up Sincholagua

Climb towards the top of an extinct volcano in Ecuador! Take a guided tour of the incredible Sincholauga and discover the history of an incredible region in the heart of the Andes!

Just outside of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, lies Sincholagua (16,053 ft). An extinct volcano on the edge of the Cotopaxi National Park, it is relatively difficult to access, which has made it a unique place to visit. This means a quiet and charming hike that is guaranteed to please every level of trekker.

The peaks are now eroded chimneys, and much of the rock at the top is loose and rotten. The northwest route still has a trail that reaches just below the summit, and was even the same path taken by Edward Whymper more than 100 years ago.

Our climb will have unbelievable panoramas of the other volcanoes in the region, and you will have the chance to see some of the wildlife that visits the park, including falcons and eagles. The condor, often considered a symbol of the Andes, might even make an appearance.

The first day of our tour will feature a stop at the museum to learn about the history of Sincholagua, and to immerse ourselves in the nature and culture of the land. Horses, llamas, and birds are all active natives, so you will be sure to see some local fauna.

If you are planning a climb in the area, this is a great way to acclimatize to the environment. This hike is for all levels, though it does have some scrambling near the top of our trek. You should be in good physical shape to enjoy this program.

I absolutely love Cotopaxi and the Andes, and it is my pleasure to share some of my favorite places with you. I can ensure we have a safe and captivating tour, and above all else, make sure we have a wonderful time that you will remember forever.

We also have more demanding and technical routes if you were interested in a different ascent. Let me know what your goals are and we can customize a trip that fits your needs.

Book this trip up Sincholagua and discover one of the less-frequented gems of the Andes in Ecuador!

If you would like, we can also hike the Inca Trail! Or we can take a more ambitious seven-day program touring volcanoes!