The five-day acclimatization program is designed to educate and instruct people in high altitude mountain climbing between 4,000 and 6,000 meters. Our mountain base, PapaGayo, is a Hosteria nestled in the Avenue of the Volcanoes and is a perfect location because of its altitude (3,200m) and proximity to the volcanoes.

With the assistance of a qualified and bilingual guide, this program acclimatizes and increases the fitness of climbers, making it possible to successfully climb some of the highest volcanoes in South America. Over the course of these five days, you will reach the summit of three of Ecuador’s most famous volcanoes, the last being the mighty Cotopaxi, which is the highest active volcano in the world! These climbs offer spectacular and unsurpassed views of Ecuador and the Avenue of Volcanoes. Specially designed, this program enables people with little or no experience to gain the ability and skills necessary for climbing some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

here are two categories for this tour:

4 Star- Tourist Superior Package includes:
Professional bilingual guide, return transport to climbing locations, 2 nights accommodation in private room at PapaGayo hosteria, 2 nights accommodation in Cotopaxi National Park, free wireless internet access, breakfast and lunch for 5 days, 2 dinners whilst in Cotopaxi National Park. Dinner can be purchased at PapaGayo restaurant whilst staying at the hosteria.

5 Star- Royal Package includes:
Private tour, airport pickup, full return transportation from Quito, professional bilingual guide, return transport to climbing locations, 2 nights accommodation in private room at PapaGayo hosteria, free wireless internet access, breakfast, lunch for 5 days, 2 dinners in PapaGayo hosteria restaurant, beverages including soft-drink, beer, 2 nights accommodation in Cotopaxi National Park, 2 dinners in Cotopaxi National Park, celebration champagne lunch at PapaGayo upon completion of Cotopaxi!

Day One: Corazon 4788m (15,700ft)

06:30
A sumptuous breakfast of your choice will be served bright and early in preparation for your first climb.

07:00
We will depart by car to the base of Corazon.

08:00
The first climb begins. Make sure to take your camera, as this hike provides many beautiful photo opportunities! A packed lunch will also be served to keep your energy up.

16:00
Upon returning to Papagayo you will be rewarded with a delicious slice of cake and a steaming cup of coffee or tea.

Day Two: Ilinizas Norte 5126m (16,800ft)

06:30
A delicious breakfast of your choice will be served bright and early in preparation for your climb.

07:00
We will depart by car to the base of the Ilinizas.

08:00
We will begin our ascent to the rugged peaks of the Illinizas, taking a break for an energy packed lunch and of course to take in the magnificent views these mountains provide!

16:00
Upon returning to Papagayo a delicious slice of cake and a steaming coffee/ tea will be waiting for you by the fire.

Day Three: Tambopaxi Hostel 3,800m (12,400ft)

07:30
A giant breakfast of your choice will be served bright and early in preparation for your day.

08:00
We will depart in the comfort of the Papagayo car to the base of Cotopaxi.

09:00
After taking in the wonders of Cotopaxi upon entering the national park, you will be given the opportunity to explore a little before embarking on an awe-inspiring trek back in time through the Inca Ruins. Please note- the Cotopaxi National Park fee of $10 is NOT included.

19:00
A delicious dinner will be served at the Tambopaxi Lodge where you will get the opportunity to share stories with the other climbers.


Day Four: Final Preparations

08:00
Today you enjoy a hearty breakfast within the Cotopaxi National Park.

12:00
And so begins your final preparations for the ultimate adventure ahead! You and your professional guide will spend the afternoon going over the proper usage of all the equipment (ropes, crampons etc.) you will need for your climb. Additionally, important safety procedures will be discussed.

18:00
A special high-altitude preparation dinner & tea will be served at the Jose Rivas Refuge 4800m. You will then be encouraged to get some rest so that you are operating at full capacity once you embark on your climb.

Day Five: The Final Climb COTOPAXI 5897m (19,300ft)

00:00
On the stroke of midnight you will commence your climb, battling the elements up Cotopaxi!

07:00
Depending on your climbing experience, you can expect to arrive at the Summit of Cotopaxi for a magnificent display of colors as the morning sun begins to flood the sky.

09:00
By mid morning you should except to be back at the Refuge, where you can marvel at the task you have just completed!

12:00
For an addition $10, a delicious and relaxing lunch will be served back at Papagayo, complete with Champagne to mark this special occasion. (Included in Royal package)

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