View over the crater at the summit of Cotopaxi in Ecuador.
4.8

Trek Ecuador’s Avenue of Volcanoes to Cotopaxi's Summit (5897m)

  • Ecuador
  • 9 nights

An epic hike through the snowcapped Andes to the top of the world's highest active volcano

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified Guides

    All itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides

  • All accommodation

    3 nights in a hotel, 4 nights in mountain huts and haciendas, 2 nights camping

  • Meals

    All breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners

  • Equipment & Permits

    All your climbing equipment, camping gear, hiking permits and national park entrance fees

  • Transfers

    All airport transfers and everything in between

  • Small Like-minded Groups

    Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 10 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people
From …
excluding flights

What's it like?

|

Highlights

  • Cross crevasses and snow bridges en route to the top of Ecuador’s most famous peak at a towering 5897m

  • Trek through rainforests and past snowcapped peaks, spotting condors soaring high above along the way

  • Sleep in traditional haciendas set on ecological reserves and in remote mountain refuges

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Arrive in Quito

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Show Day 1 detail

    Your host will meet you at Quito Airport and transfer you to your hotel in the outskirts of Quito. The rest of the day and evening are at leisure, depending on your arrival time.

  2. Day 2

    Acclimatisation day in Quito

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast included
    Show Day 2 detail

    Today is a relaxed day, designed for you to acclimatise to the altitude before climbing further into the Andes. You'll meet up with your guide and group for a gear check in the morning to ensure everyone is prepared for the expedition. If you are hiring plastic boots, you can sort this with your guide today. If you are short of any important items your guide can also help you pick these up in town. You are then free to explore Quito at your own pace with some short hikes to warm your legs up for the tougher days ahead.

  3. Day 3

    Hike to Hacienda Santa Rita (3280m)

    Hiking
    5hrs · 15km · 400m up · 25m down
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 3 detail

    After breakfast, there's a short drive to the village of Santa Clara, deep in the Valley of Los Chillos and 2750 metres above sea level. Hike along an ancient cobbled road beside the banks of the Pita River, passing a shrine where locals come to worship. Arrive at the hacienda, situated on 500 hectares of private ecological reserve, where your camp will be all set up and waiting. Enjoy a cooked meal and a good night’s sleep under an Ecuadorian night sky.

  4. Day 4

    Pasochoa Volcano (4200m)

    Hiking
    6-7hrs · 17km · 1150m up · 1000m down
    Campsite
    Twin tent
    All meals included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Wake up bright and early and head off to climb the slopes of Pasochoa, an ancient volcano that has been inactive since the last Ice Age. If the weather allows, you can look into the crater itself which is home to the Pasochoa Forest Reserve; a cloud forest situated within the extinct volcano. This is a protected area, home to more than 110 species of birds and 45 species of trees. Keep an eye out for condors soaring on the thermals high above, before you make your way back down to the hacienda camp where dinner will be waiting.

  5. Day 5

    Hike to Hacienda El Porvenir (3600m)

    Hiking
    4-5hrs · 15km · 350m up · 25m down
    Guesthouse
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Take down camp and trek through the humid Andean forest, looking out for brightly coloured hummingbirds amongst the green trees. Reaching Hacienda El Porvenir, one of the largest traditional farms in Ecuador, you'll check into your comfortable, traditional room surrounded by four volcanoes – Cotopaxi, Sincholahua, Pasochoa and Rumiñahui.

  6. Day 6

    Summit Rumiñahui (4600m)

    Hiking
    5-6hrs · 11km · 860m up · 860m down
    Lodge
    Mixed dorm
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    A short drive deeper into Cotopaxi National Park takes you to the trail to Rumiñahui, a volcano named after the last Incan general to lead the fight against the Spanish conquerors. Hike along the central ridge to the summit, and take in the 360-degree views of the mountains and volcanoes all around you, before hiking down to Tambopaxi, a remote mountain lodge nestled at the foot of Cotopaxi on the edge of the volcano’s ancient boulder field at 3700m.

  7. Day 7

    Acclimatisation day

    Hiking
    2hrs · 2km · 900m up · 900m down
    Lodge
    Mixed dorm
    All meals included
    Show Day 7 detail

    Enjoy an easier day today, with a short hike to get used to the higher altitude. After a gentle preparation trek to reach 5000m, you'll stop for lunch at a remote mountain hut before returning to Tambopaxi Lodge for a hot shower and another traditional Ecuadorian meal.

  8. Day 8

    Hike to Jose Rivas refuge (4800m)

    Hiking
    2hr · 2km · 200m up · 10m down
    Mountain hut
    Mixed dorm
    All meals included
    Show Day 8 detail

    Set off deep into the snow-capped mountain landscape and drive through the incredible Andean scenery to a trailhead at 4600m, for a short hike to the Jose Rivas refuge at 4800m. Here, you’ll stop for lunch to continue your acclimatisation before the big summit day tomorrow. In the afternoon, your guides will run you through the glacier-hiking skills that you'll need for tomorrow’s final ascent. Grab an early meal and a very early bedtime, ready for the action to start again shortly after midnight.

    Day 9

    Summit Cotopaxi (5897m)

    Hiking
    6-8hrs · 5km · 1097m up · 1097m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 9 detail

    You'll be up shortly after midnight to get prepped to leave camp at 01:00 to ascend the glacier, crossing crevasses and snow bridges, before reaching the final slope up to the pinnacle of your adventure: the summit of Cotopaxi. The final section is a challenging climb up a snow-covered slope set at a 40-degree angle. Your guides will help you navigate this section, using the knowledge, skills and acclimatisation you've gained over the past week. When you've successfully reached the summit you can peer down into the huge crater of Cotopaxi, 800 metres in diameter and still emitting steam and gases. Take in the unrivalled panoramic views of the Andes from here, before descending back down the glacier. You'll enjoy a triumphant drive back to Quito where you can celebrate your achievement in town over a few well-deserved local beers.

  10. Day 10

    Bid farewell to Quito

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 10 detail

    Your adventure ends today after you enjoy a final breakfast at your base in Quito. You're free to head to the airport in time for your onward flight, or to the bus station if you are travelling on to other parts of Ecuador.

Getting There

Nearest airport
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
Pick up
Quito Airport
Any time on Day 1
Drop off
Quito Airport
Any time on Day 10

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Private transfers between the airport and your guesthouse are included for any time (and day) you choose to arrive or depart. Your host will meet you at Mariscal Sucre International Airport and transfer you to your accommodation in Quito. On the final day of the trip, your host will transfer you back to the airport in time for your onward flight. The airport is around a 1-hour journey to downtown Quito.

Travel options

There are regular flights to Quito from major airports across the UK, Europe and North America.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Guided hike along the Pita River
  • Guided hike up Pasochoa (inactive volcano)
  • Guided trek through the Andean forest
  • Guided hike to the summit of Rumiñahui
  • Guided preparation hike
  • Guided hike to the Jose Rivas refuge
  • Learn and recap glacier-hiking skills
  • Guided hike to the summit of Cotopaxi (take a peek down into the crater)

  • Expert, local, English-speaking guides

  • 3 nights in a hotel in Quito
  • 2 nights camping in the grounds of Hacienda Santa Rita, surrounded by an ecological reserve
  • 1 nights in a traditional Andean hacienda
  • 2 nights in the sustainable mountain lodge of Tambopaxi
  • 1 night in the Jose Rivas mountain refuge

  • 9 tasty breakfasts
  • 7 packed lunches
  • 6 traditional Ecuadorian dinners

  • All climbing equipment
  • All camping gear

  • All hiking permits and national park entry fees

  • Arrival transfer from Quito Airport at any time on Day 1
  • Departure transfer to Quito Airport at any time on Day 10
  • All transfers throughout the trip

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • Casa Ilayaku Lodge near Quito, Ecuador

    Quito

    Stay

    Quito

    During your time in Quito, you'll stay at Casa Ilayaku Lodge (or similar) located in a quiet neighbourhood on the outskirts of the city. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with private bathrooms.

  • Day 3

    Avenue of Volcanoes

    Stay

    Avenue of Volcanoes

    Haciendas are a highlight on any trip to Ecuador. Hacienda is a Spanish word for an estate, these are generally traditional ranches or homesteads based in rural areas, with historic colonial architecture making for a unique place to spend the night. You’ll spend two nights camping in the grounds of Hacienda Santa Rita, which is surrounded by 500 hectares of a private ecological reserve. Shower facilities are available in the hacienda itself.

    You’ll then move on to Hacienda El Porvenir (or Hacienda Los Mortiños, if El Porvenir is not available). Both are comfortable, traditional haciendas built with materials and techniques that have been used in the Andes for centuries.

  • The thatched lodge of the Hotel Tambopaxi, Ecuador

    Cotopaxi

    Stay

    Cotopaxi

    You’ll spend two nights at Tambopaxi, a sustainable mountain lodge and the only accommodation located within the Cotopaxi National Park. Hot showers and good food are available, as well as excellent views of Cotopaxi itself. Your final night will be spent at the Jose Rivas mountain refuge, situated 4800m above sea level, ready for an early start to the summit. Facilities there are basic, with only shared rooms available.

What You'll Eat

Throughout the adventure, you'll be kept fuelled up on delicious Andean food, such as traditional Ecuadorian potato soup, meat and vegetable dishes utilising local grains such as quinoa and beans and plenty of local fresh fruits. Lunch usually consis…

Food and Dietary info

Throughout the adventure, you'll be kept fuelled up on delicious Andean food, such as traditional Ecuadorian potato soup, meat and vegetable dishes utilising local grains such as quinoa and beans and plenty of local fresh fruits. Lunch usually consists of a variety of sandwiches and dinner is always a warm and filling meal after a big day of hiking. Vegans and vegetarians can be catered for, please let your host know at the time of booking.

Optional Extras

Equipment / Kit Hire

Mountaineering Boots Hire (for 2 days)
…/per person

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation

Double/Twin/Single Room (2025, enquire with host for 2026 rates)
…/per night

Upgrades

Optional Private Room & Tent Upgrade
…

For solo travellers wanting their own space, you can request a solo room and tent upgrade. This is available for all nights except the night at the José Rivas mountain refuge before your summit of Cotopaxi. Please request at the time of booking, as this is subject to availability. See Optional Extras for prices.

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Trip level explained

Level 7

Tough

You'll be hiking for up to eight hours each day at high altitude, so a good level of fitness and experience of multi-day trekking is required. Previous mountaineering experience is recommended, but not essential as your experienced guides will be supporting you.

What will I need to carry?

Whilst trekking, you will need to carry a day pack containing your personal items for the day, and water.

High Altitude Factors To Consider

This trip visits locations at or above 4500m. At this altitude some people may experience symptoms associated with Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). The likelihood of more severe conditions, such as HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema), increases at higher altitudes. Previous experience at high altitude is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with altitude by carefully managing the rate of ascent and the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided. Owing to the nature of this trip, it is essential that your personal travel insurance policy provides cover up to the maximum altitude visited on this trip as well as emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.

Climate Factors To Consider

This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely cold and consistently below freezing (0C/32F) during the times of year when this trip operates. Temperatures at night will likely be even colder. Personal care should be taken to keep as warm as possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration and nutrition. Very cold temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at warmer temperatures. In severe cold conditions people may experience symptoms associated with Exposure, Frostbite and Hypothermia. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with cold temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.

Highly Remote Environments: Factors to consider

This trip travels through very remote areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited and evacuation may take a significant amount of time. In some locations, medical facilities may provide only basic treatment, and further travel may be required to reach a hospital capable of providing more advanced care.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, evacuation may involve multiple stages and different forms of transport before reaching appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may be unreliable for significant portions of this trip and communication may rely on satellite devices carried by your guides.

Your guides are trained and experienced in operating in remote environments and will manage the group carefully throughout the journey. However, due to the remoteness of these locations, access to external support may be limited and delays to medical care should be expected.

Before booking, consider your personal health and comfort travelling in locations where medical care and evacuation options may be limited or delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we strongly recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before travelling. If you have a medical condition that may require rapid access to specialist care, regular monitoring, or emergency treatment, this type of remote travel may not be suitable without careful planning and medical advice.

Your travel insurance must cover the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation.

Ratings & Reviews

4.865 reviews
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)

Category rating

Food
5.0
Guides & crew
5.0
Accommodation
5.0
Itinerary
4.0

Latest Reviews

  • Kathryn H.

    My husband and I really enjoyed our trip up Cotopaxi! The guides were great and very knowledgeable. This type of trip is perfect for those who love to be challenged physically without having to worry about logistics. The food was delicious and the lodging was all comfortable. When packing, bring lots of options for base layers as you never know the conditions on top of Cotopaxi. Bring a heavier down jacket than you think. If I did it again I would bring toe warmers as I think I could have stayed on top a bit longer with warmer feet. If you are used to hiking in trail runners you can use those on all the hikes except the summit (which is when you use the mountaineer boots). Pack a pair of shorts and sandals as your day in Quito can be quite warm. And sandals or crocs are nice lodge/hut shoes.

  • James J.

    The Avenue of Volcanoes was an excellent trip, I would recommend it to anyone who is physically fit, likes to do hard activities, and has a sense of adventure. The guides from Andean Face were absolutely excellent; prepared us well for the summit of Cotopaxi, and that shows since all the participants summited. The group dynamics were extraordinary, we work well as a team and made lifelong friends. It was an unforgettable trip, it was our first and hopefully not our last.

  • Susana F.

    I’ve never done group trips where I didn’t know a single person, but after completing this trip with MBA I can’t stress how happy I am I did! All the way from the daily activities to the ultimate summit trek, I had the most amazing time, while also feeling extremely safe and well-taken care of. This might be my first MBA trip, but it will absolutely not be my last! Thank you Daniel, Diego and Javier 😊

  • samuel c.

    This is one of the best trips I have ever done. Every part of the trip from the beginning was well organised and thought through to best prepare you to tackle the summit attempt. Our lead guide planned well to make sure we were not caught in the worst of the weather and made the trip as comfortable as possible. The accommodation we stayed in was top notch with incredible food to keep us fuelled through out. The summit attempt was really tough but so worth it with incredible views! I would highly recommend this trip to anyone keen to attempt some higher altitude mountains. If you have booked on this trip I would recommend bringing some warmer hiking clothes such as shorts and lighter boots/approach shoes for the first few days as it can be very warm at the lower altitude days.

  • Camilla S.

    This was an amazing trip and Christian and Pepe were fantastic guides. There was a great balance between hiking and downtime, meaning that the trip didn’t feel too full on. My dietary requirements were always considered, and the accommodation was excellent. The summit climb was tough, and I would have felt more comfortable with some ice axe and crampon training beforehand. However, Pepe was truly brilliant, as were the other guides, and the whole group made it to the top! Overall, I would highly recommend this trip.

  • Agata M.

    Overall great organisation, right from the airport pick-up to the final transfer. Very good acclimatisation schedule, with relatively easy hikes allowing gradual getting used to the altitude. The summit night was tough, even though we were lucky with the weather. At the end, everyone in our group made it. The guides were all friendly and supportive. I don’t think I would be able to make it to the top without Pepe’s help (and hauling me on a short rope the final meters). The adventure I’ll never forget!

  • Alexzander L.

    Brilliant unforgettable experience

  • Kevin C.

    It was a good trip overall. The organization could have been improved on the first two days. No real meeting with any group leader. And no debrief after the trip was over.

  • Nicole M.

    An incredible journey through the volcanoes of Ecuador. Eddie and Wellington were fantastic guides, making sure we all felt safe and supported throughout. It has to be said that we didn't manage to summit Cotopaxi as part of the trip due to weather (heavy wind and rain). Our guides made the absolute right decision to turn around (it was truly horrible) but with so much hard work put in to acclimatise, we were all pretty disheartened. I would suggest if you can to have some extra days at the end of the trip 'just in case' as this may allow for an extra summit attempt if guides are available. Myself and my pal were extremely lucky to have this window and returned with Eddie two days later to get the summit experience we'd hoped for. And oh my goodness, it did not disappoint. Worth every extra penny and energy expended. A true challenge as 5897m isn't to be underestimated. Accommodation, food and drink along the way was fantastic. A particularly lovely stay the night after the campsites and there's lots to do in Quito - so explore as much as you can.

  • Sharon B.

    Sadly underwhelming. This so-called 10 day tour was considerably shorter as you counted arrival date & leaving date (neither of which saw an MBA person). Safety was secondary. The kit list was a joke - apparently poles were optional and there was no mention of the -12 degree weather with 40mph winds so a “light down jacket” really didn’t cut it. We were never asked how we were coping with the altitude nor had our oxygen levels checked per other similar treks with Intrepid or G Adventures. To be fair Eddie was great, but we noted how the guide we were assigned spoke no English, didn’t know our names or our ability. We didnt even meet our ultimate guide until the Cotopaxi ascent. The crampons fitted were all chucked in a bag after the ice pick/crampon training day so at 3am on the glacier were found to be the wrong size. Wrong information was repeatedly given (eg 45 min trip on the cable car which should have been 4hrs with snacks/footwear). Although we were taken to where we could hire kit, the MBA person left immediately so no questions could be asked. Although our guide started the trip saying we would all stick together it very quickly turned into two groups.

Customer Photos

4.865 reviews
  • 5 stars (55)
  • 4 stars (8)
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (2)
Showing all 65 reviews

  • A Great Adventure!

    Kathryn H. April 2026
    My husband and I really enjoyed our trip up Cotopaxi! The guides were great and very knowledgeable. This type of trip is perfect for those who love to be challenged physically without having to worry about logistics. The food was delicious and the lodging was all comfortable. When packing, bring lots of options for base layers as you never know the conditions on top of Cotopaxi. Bring a heavier down jacket than you think. If I did it again I would bring toe warmers as I think I could have stayed on top a bit longer with warmer feet. If you are used to hiking in trail runners you can use those on all the hikes except the summit (which is when you use the mountaineer boots). Pack a pair of shorts and sandals as your day in Quito can be quite warm. And sandals or crocs are nice lodge/hut shoes.

  • Fun Through and Through

    James J. April 2026
    The Avenue of Volcanoes was an excellent trip, I would recommend it to anyone who is physically fit, likes to do hard activities, and has a sense of adventure. The guides from Andean Face were absolutely excellent; prepared us well for the summit of Cotopaxi, and that shows since all the participants summited. The group dynamics were extraordinary, we work well as a team and made lifelong friends. It was an unforgettable trip, it was our first and hopefully not our last.

  • I have never felt so proud of myself :’)

    Susana F. April 2026
    I’ve never done group trips where I didn’t know a single person, but after completing this trip with MBA I can’t stress how happy I am I did! All the way from the daily activities to the ultimate summit trek, I had the most amazing time, while also feeling extremely safe and well-taken care of. This might be my first MBA trip, but it will absolutely not be my last! Thank you Daniel, Diego and Javier 😊

  • Epic adventure

    samuel c. April 2026
    This is one of the best trips I have ever done. Every part of the trip from the beginning was well organised and thought through to best prepare you to tackle the summit attempt. Our lead guide planned well to make sure we were not caught in the worst of the weather and made the trip as comfortable as possible. The accommodation we stayed in was top notch with incredible food to keep us fuelled through out. The summit attempt was really tough but so worth it with incredible views! I would highly recommend this trip to anyone keen to attempt some higher altitude mountains. If you have booked on this trip I would recommend bringing some warmer hiking clothes such as shorts and lighter boots/approach shoes for the first few days as it can be very warm at the lower altitude days.

  • One for the memory books!

    Camilla S. March 2026
    This was an amazing trip and Christian and Pepe were fantastic guides. There was a great balance between hiking and downtime, meaning that the trip didn’t feel too full on. My dietary requirements were always considered, and the accommodation was excellent. The summit climb was tough, and I would have felt more comfortable with some ice axe and crampon training beforehand. However, Pepe was truly brilliant, as were the other guides, and the whole group made it to the top! Overall, I would highly recommend this trip.

  • Excellent trip, but don’t underestimate Cotopaxi

    Agata M. March 2026
    Overall great organisation, right from the airport pick-up to the final transfer. Very good acclimatisation schedule, with relatively easy hikes allowing gradual getting used to the altitude. The summit night was tough, even though we were lucky with the weather. At the end, everyone in our group made it. The guides were all friendly and supportive. I don’t think I would be able to make it to the top without Pepe’s help (and hauling me on a short rope the final meters). The adventure I’ll never forget!

  • Brilliant unforgettable experience

    Alexzander L. March 2026
    Brilliant unforgettable experience

  • Pretty good

    Kevin C. March 2026
    It was a good trip overall. The organization could have been improved on the first two days. No real meeting with any group leader. And no debrief after the trip was over.

  • Fantastic trip but a reminder that the weather wins sometimes

    Nicole M. February 2026
    An incredible journey through the volcanoes of Ecuador. Eddie and Wellington were fantastic guides, making sure we all felt safe and supported throughout. It has to be said that we didn't manage to summit Cotopaxi as part of the trip due to weather (heavy wind and rain). Our guides made the absolute right decision to turn around (it was truly horrible) but with so much hard work put in to acclimatise, we were all pretty disheartened. I would suggest if you can to have some extra days at the end of the trip 'just in case' as this may allow for an extra summit attempt if guides are available. Myself and my pal were extremely lucky to have this window and returned with Eddie two days later to get the summit experience we'd hoped for. And oh my goodness, it did not disappoint. Worth every extra penny and energy expended. A true challenge as 5897m isn't to be underestimated. Accommodation, food and drink along the way was fantastic. A particularly lovely stay the night after the campsites and there's lots to do in Quito - so explore as much as you can.

  • Not up to standard

    Sharon B. February 2026
    Sadly underwhelming. This so-called 10 day tour was considerably shorter as you counted arrival date & leaving date (neither of which saw an MBA person). Safety was secondary. The kit list was a joke - apparently poles were optional and there was no mention of the -12 degree weather with 40mph winds so a “light down jacket” really didn’t cut it. We were never asked how we were coping with the altitude nor had our oxygen levels checked per other similar treks with Intrepid or G Adventures. To be fair Eddie was great, but we noted how the guide we were assigned spoke no English, didn’t know our names or our ability. We didnt even meet our ultimate guide until the Cotopaxi ascent. The crampons fitted were all chucked in a bag after the ice pick/crampon training day so at 3am on the glacier were found to be the wrong size. Wrong information was repeatedly given (eg 45 min trip on the cable car which should have been 4hrs with snacks/footwear). Although we were taken to where we could hire kit, the MBA person left immediately so no questions could be asked. Although our guide started the trip saying we would all stick together it very quickly turned into two groups.

  • Much less seen adventures

    Christopher S. February 2026
    All our paperwork says ‘much better adventures will……. ’ And yet from my time of arrival to departure I didn’t see one MBA person, met by a rep from a local company and taken to our hotel. The next day a similar arrangement and we were told there’s no need for boots to go walking above the Quito cable car. We found to our cost this was far from the truth. Still no sign of an MBA rep. After day 2 of hiking and on our second night at the campsite I decided this wasn’t for me. When I asked the guide to arrange a taxi he was more than keen and told me it would be $80. 00. With the help of the original hotel I managed to get it for $60. 00. I feel I should not have paid at all. Surely MBA have a level of duty of care towards those who don’t wish to continue? To summarise a disappointing trip all round made all the more obvious by the number of Intrepid Travel trips I’ve done that have been excellent.

  • Proceed with caution!

    Bernadette D. February 2026
    I felt this trek wasn’t well organised, wasn’t always safe and had a really poor kit list and preparation advice.

  • Overall, the guides, driver, and

    Tomie P. January 2026
    Overall, the guides, driver, and the actual Cotopaxi hike were excellent. The lead guide was knowledgeable, calm, and supportive, and the guides on the mountain were very helpful and professional throughout the climb. The driver was also great and reliable. From a guiding perspective, the trip itself was well run. However, the operations and logistics side was disappointing and made things unnecessarily more difficult. The operations manager communicated that he would arrange an airport pickup, despite me clearly stating I was staying at the airport and did not need one. When I questioned this, I was told it was already arranged and couldn’t be cancelled. In the end, no one arrived anyway, and I took the free airport shuttle as originally planned. This lack of clarity and follow-through created avoidable stress. Post-hike logistics were also challenging. The same questions were asked repeatedly, suggesting poor coordination and organisation. It felt like the operations side was not aligned or across the details of the trip. Regarding the difficulty level, while the hike was enjoyable, it felt more moderate rather than challenging, especially for those with prior hiking or mountaineering experience. Offering longer hikes or optional additional activities would be a great improvement for guests looking for a more demanding experience. In summary, the guiding team is a real strength of this company, but the operations side needs significant improvement. I would strongly suggest reviewing who manages logistics, as this currently detracts from what could otherwise be an excellent experience.

  • Epic christmas time

    Jari-Petri I. January 2026
    It was a great trip to spend Christmas in beautiful nature surrounded by volcanoes. The hike gave us exactly what we set out to get. We had great guides, the arrangements were flexible and the team was great. Cotopaxi was really challenging. It wasn't described as "tough" for nothing.

  • Pushing Limits on Volcán Cotopaxi

    Jenny F. January 2026
    Climbing Volcán Cotopaxi (5,897m) was hands down one of the toughest hiking experiences I’ve had, and I couldn’t have asked for a better team to do it with. One thing I really loved about Much Better Adventures was the smaller group size (10 people max). Compared to other providers I’ve been with, this made a huge difference - it felt more personal, safer, and allowed the guides to give each climber the attention they needed, especially at altitude. The itinerary was also very well designed, with acclimatisation hikes leading up to the Cotopaxi summit climb, which made a noticeable difference on summit night. Starting just after midnight, we tackled a demanding ascent with over 1,100m of elevation gain in freezing conditions and thin air. Our guides were outstanding - highly professional, calm, and incredibly experienced. They constantly checked in on everyone, paced the climb perfectly, and prioritised safety at all times. Unfortunately, we faced extreme weather conditions on summit day, with strong winds and snow, which meant we didn’t get a sunrise or views at the top. That said, it didn’t take away from the achievement or the experience. A huge shout-out to our guide, Ramel, for pushing me all the way to the summit. I wanted to give up more times than I can count, but his encouragement and belief in me made all the difference.

  • A great adventure!

    Angela M. December 2025
    After several ‘challenging’ hikes with MBA, this was my first ‘tough’ rated adventure, and I was quite apprehensive about whether I’d be good enough. The whole group were very fit (and fun) and you definitely do need good aerobic capacity for this trip. The acclimatisation hikes were challenging, and it was much warmer and sunnier than expected - so don’t skimp on the suncream! I had managed to pick up a cold virus on the plane out, and my pace on the uphills at altitude was at the slower end of the group. I really wasn’t sure whether I’d be able to make the summit of Cotopaxi, but having recognised my concerns, AndeanFace sent an extra guide without asking, so that myself and another group member could set off early and take an easier pace on summit night. This made all the difference-and I am SO grateful I got to see the sunrise from the top. It was a long, tough night but my guide Ivan, and head guide Pepe really got us through! The accommodation was all good quality -some lovely guesthouses to relax in. Ecuador is a stunning country, and I’d recommend this trip - just be prepared that you may return home more tired than you left!

  • Wonderful Birthday Adventure!

    Aswathy K. July 2025
    Let's begin with the single fact that Cotopaxi is no joke. This is harder than Kilimanjaro and Annapurna Base Camp. Inca Trail was a peace rally compared to this. Next, the crew at MBA were brilliant. . . . this was my first adventure with them. . . and I was nervous and a little scared. . . . the local guide responded to my queries quickly about prep, kit and options if things went south. As a risk manager, I always need a plan B, C, D to enjoy Type 2 fun 😁!! The guides were brilliant and the rental gear was really good quality. . . we had hot water every day ( except for the refugio ). If the mountains call you, this is a great trip to answer it. Even if you dont manage to summit Cotopaxi. . . . . the tallest mountains and the deepest oceans to conquer are those within your own self. . . and the trip encourages you to dig deep and find your 'why' in a safe, happy, joyous way!

  • Absolutely loved everything about the

    Peter M. July 2025
    Absolutely loved everything about the trip. The place itself , the accommodation, the guides, the food, the climbs , the people who were on the trip all made it an unforgettable experience.

  • It was a good experience

    Lorenzo G. June 2025
    It was a good experience in the nature and on top of the volcanoes. Very good guides and group throughout the journey. We missed the summit because of the bad weather, although the other peaks were enough challenging.

  • Beautiful countryside!

    Bilal K. June 2025
    The country is absolutely gorgeous, especially Cotopaxi national park. The hiking was fantastic. Unfortunately, we were not able to summit Cotopaxi due to weather, but these things are always a risk. Great trip overall with a great guide and group

  • Llama Del Ray would approve

    Andrea M. June 2025
    Let me start by saying we did not summit Cotopaxi. We encountered a storm that stopped us on summit day. That being said… we had a lovely rest of the trip! Amazing people within our group and the guides themselves. I have no complaints. We encountered less than ideal weather, but the whole trip remained beautiful. When you first get there, you’ll have plenty of time to play around Quito and explore. The first day is basically a free day. Our group hiked and then enjoyed the city together. The places that you’ll stay are stunning and you don’t have to go more than a day (summit day)!without a shower. Even the tents are spacious and comfortable with a shower and functioning toilets nearby. If you happen to stay at Los Mortinos, you won’t be disappointed! The horses are beautiful and friendly. I don’t think I went more than 5 minutes without seeing bunnies hopping around. I would stay there again and again if I could. With your extra day in Quito, you can hike across Ilalo if you want to squeeze one more volcano in there. They feed you more food than you could imagine and make sure that everyone has snacks (so you don’t have to bring your own). I was happy that I parked a parka down jacket (800 fill) since nights get cold especially while camping and at Jose Rivas. I would recommend adding that to your kit list. Definitely do not leave out your sunscreen and trekking poles. You’ll need the poles. This is not optional. BRING THEM! 😂 One other recommendation would be a trash or compactor bag to line your pack with because it absolutely rains in Ecuador.

  • Great adventure

    Thaidra G. March 2025
    Lovely adventure!

  • An incredible challenge for the body and soul.

    Martine C. February 2025
    What an epic adventure, in both the original and more modern sense of the word! The trip is really well structured and the incremental exposure to altitude, both through the daily walks and the accommodation, gives you the best possible chance of summiting Cotopaxi at the end. While the altitude is literally breathtaking, the incredible scenery and flora and fauna are figuratively so, and prove an excellent distraction from the physical hard work. Cotopaxi itself is not to be underestimated. As a regular runner and hill walker I consider myself to have a solid level of fitness, but this was by far and away the hardest physical challenge I have ever undertaken, mostly owing to the altitude. If you're looking for the ultimate challenge, this is definitely the trip for you!

  • For fit, beginner mountaineers who don’t mind rain

    Rebecca F. February 2025
    MBA did a fantastic job organizing this entire tour. Everyone on their team was extremely responsive to any questions, concerns, or needs. I would definitely book with them again because you are in good hands with this company. They do a great job facilitating group interactions so it is easy to make friends, which was the best part of this trip! For those of you who might be like I am, an over-planner and beginning mountaineer, I would add some information to the itinerary and kit list to help you prepare to be successful on this trip—you can do it!! 1. You most likely don’t need diamox for altitude sickness, their acclimatization program prepares your body to do high altitudes by changing and rising in elevation over the course of 10 days 2. Bring American dollars-a lot of places won’t give change for 20’s, so bring smaller bills like 1’s, 5’s, and 10’s. 3. Uber is the way to get around when you are at your hotel in Quito (which is about 40 minutes outside of the city center). Make sure to have the hotel phone number to call ahead when you return to they can open the gate for you 4. For the third and fourth night at Santa Rita, there is a small cafe/structure near the camping site where you can order food and has flushing toilets, two power outlets, and WiFi that you can use during the evening when you return from your hikes. There are showers there that seem to be finicky/unreliable. 5. On the fifth night, there is a group of buildings in Hacienda El Porvenir, and not all of them have hot tubs like the pictures show, so don’t count on it:) 6. The lodge in Tambopaxi is a hostel with a nice lobby and dining area, has many power outlets and WiFi for each person to use Kit list changes- 1. No need for a small thermos unless you want to take it on your summit trip to Cotopaxi. 2. Don’t stress about polypropylene socks, just get good socks that are not cotton; the kit list says bring 2 pairs of socks, but you will need enough for each day unless you do laundry at the hotels you stop at; the hiking guide actually doesn’t not recommend you wearing two layers of socks 3. Bring a portable power source to charge your phone/devices. This is an adventure of a lifetime!

  • A great challenge

    Leigh R. January 2025
    This trip was fantastically planned to prepare you for the challenge of Cotopaxi by building you up over the days prior and allowing sufficient time for rest. The summit day itself is challenging, not to be underestimated but totally worth it!

  • Cotopaxi Jan 2025

    Brian L. January 2025
    A very well organised trip. . the guides were knowledgeable…meals and accommodation all good

  • Brutal but magnificent

    Anna T. January 2025
    Climbing Cotopaxi is the hardest thing I’ve ever done by a country mile, and I’ve done a lot of trekking. It’s stunning and life-affirming - just 2 days later, despite the struggle, I’m already planning my next climb. Diego and Pepe were wonderful. Highly recommend the trip - but do not expect a relaxing lil walk!

  • Keeping your feet firmly on the ground while your head is in the clouds.

    Andrew C. January 2025
    What a great trip. But so tough I never want to go above sea level again unless it's in a plane. The final ascent to the summit of Cota Paxi is truly life affirming. When you think you can't go any further, words of encouragement from your guide and fellow climbers get you up that last 100 meters. Depending on what website you look at, Cota Paxi might be the second highest active volcano in the world and the fourth highest point when measured from the centre of the planet. All the other day treks before Cota Paxi were awe inspiring too. From walking beside rivers and waterfalls to scrambling up scree and rocks. All the hikes offer wonderful views and heart warming companionship with your fellow trekkers. Such exercise requires proper fuelling and the food throughout the trip is gourmet. Even when it's made in a tent in the forest. Our cook, Ciro is a magician in the mess tent. Weather was very changeable and it's important to read thoroughly the clothing you should bring. Advice I should have taken myself. I can't write a review of this trip without expressing my appreciation for our guides. Diego and Pepe. Always smiling and in good spirits, I really felt they had our safety and enjoyment as their priority.

  • Incredible trip - couldn’t recommend more

    Amelia S. December 2024
    This trip is amazing, loads of fun and a good challenge too! I couldn’t fault the trip - the food, places you stay (much nicer than expected, and hot showers everywhere!), guides and volcanoes you visit are all incredible. The acclimatisation walks are a great way to explore the areas around Quito, and Cotopaxi does not disappoint! I didn’t have any experience with crampons/ice axes which was ok but I underestimated how much harder the summit push would be. Would recommend this trip big time!

  • What an amazing holiday

    Niamh K. December 2024
    I've had my eye on Cotopaxi for a while now and so glad I chose to do it with MBA. The trip was amazing. . . . the acclimatization process was well thought out and prepared us perfectly for summit day. A big thanks to our guides Pablo and Freddie who looked after us so well. The food was amazing and plentiful. Best of all, we had a wonderful group who gelled really well together. Climbing Cotopaxi itself was an amazing experience. . . one of the toughest things I've ever done but the sense of achievement at the top made it totally worth it.

Want to Know More?
Ask our AI Assistant

Get instant answers about this adventure

Suggested prompts

We've Got Your Back

Book with confidence and peace of mind.

Departure dates

  • Friday 19th June 2026

    to Sunday 28th June 2026

    …

Don't see a date you like?

Get an email alert when new dates are added.

Sign up for alerts
Illustration of a group of people kayaking

Go private and split the bill with ease.

Forget complex logistics, we've taken care of all the details to ensure a hassle-free get together. All of the adventure, none of the faff.

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?

  • Some of your climbing equipment including: crampons, harness, ice axe, helmet and ropes
  • Tent

What's available to hire?

  • Plastic mountaineering boots: $20 per day. You'll need a pair for the ascent of Cotopaxi (2 days of the trip).

What do I need to bring?

  • Large strong duffel/kit bag with a strong zipper and a lock, large enough for your main rucksack to fit in as this will be used to transport all your gear during the flight and while travelling during the expedition. During the trek you can leave your duffel bag at the lodges at the base of the mountains, or at the camp, with any items you won't need during the hikes.
  • 50+ litre rucksack - to carry your gear from the carpark to the refuge of Cotopaxi (45 minutes). It needs to be big enough so that you can put your sleeping bag in it.
  • Approx 25 litre daypack is needed for every day of the trip, to carry daily with your personal items, water and layers. Should have a raincover or bring additional dry bags for valuables.
  • Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures down to -10°C
  • Inflatable sleeping mat, such as a Thermarest
  • Outer socks, thick wool or polypropylene, 2 pairs
  • Inner socks, thin silk or polypropylene, 2 pairs
  • Comfortable hiking boots
  • Gaiters, 1 pair
  • T-shirts or long-sleeved tops
  • Fleece jacket or jumper
  • Breathable windproof and waterproof outer jacket, such as Gore-Tex, with hood
  • A light down jacket
  • Thermal leggings
  • Hiking trousers
  • Breathable windproof and waterproof trousers such as Gore-Tex
  • Gloves inner
  • Gloves thick or mittens (windproof)
  • Wool hat or balaclava
  • Baseball cap or sun hat
  • Hiking poles (optional)
  • Head torch
  • Extra batteries
  • Sunglasses
  • Ski goggles
  • Sunscreen and lip protection
  • Penknife (optional)
  • Two x 1-litre water bottles (Camelback not, advised as can freeze)
  • Small Thermos
  • Personal medical kit and toiletries
  • USD $200 in small bills ($5s & $10s) for bottled drinks and extras
  • Camera
  • Small towel (to use at the campsite)
  • Swimsuit (optional)
  • Earplugs (huts can be noisy)
  • Your favourite treats or energy bars

FAQs

One dedicated bilingual leader for the duration of the trip. Depending on the group size, there is one extra guide for every 6 hikers for the trek whilst inside Cotopaxi National Park. For the ascent of either Cotopaxi or Cayambe, there is one guide for every 2 climbers.

Cotopaxi's summit was closed due to increased volcanic activity for over a year recently, before re-opening in March 2024. Our host in Ecuador has been successfully summiting with groups since March and all upcoming departures are expected to feature Cotopaxi.

If bad weather conditions or any further temporary closures are encountered for Cotopaxi, then contingency plans can be made by the host to summit an alternative volcano on Days 8 and 9 of the itinerary, with advance notice given whenever possible.

All of our trips to Ecuador are currently running without any disruption. More information can be read here.

Your guides ensure that drinking water is available throughout the trip at each stage of the trek. Please bring along two reusable water bottle to carry in your daypack while hiking.

Yes, you can leave your excess luggage at the storage facility at the guesthouse in Quito before heading off for the trek.

This trip includes locations or elevations where conditions can be extremely cold. Daytime temperatures may drop below freezing (0°C/32°F), and nights are often significantly colder. These conditions can affect physical performance and increase the risk of exposure-related issues, such as frostbite or hypothermia.

Your guide is trained to manage these risks, adapting activity intensity and monitoring group wellbeing. However, it's important to take personal responsibility – bringing the right cold-weather gear (see Kit List), staying hydrated and well-nourished, and recognising early signs of cold stress.

We recommend assessing your personal comfort and resilience in cold environments, and consulting a medical professional if you have health conditions that may be affected. Arriving early can also help you acclimatise to the colder conditions, especially if you're coming from a much warmer climate.

This trip reaches elevations above 4500m, where the risks associated with Altitude Sickness (AMS) are higher, and where more serious conditions like HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) and HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) can occur.

Previous high-altitude experience doesn’t guarantee the same reaction every time, but it can be a helpful indicator. It gives you insight into how your body might respond, helps you recognise symptoms early, and prepares you mentally and physically for the demands of high-altitude trekking.

Your guide is trained to manage altitude risk by carefully managing the rate of ascent, monitoring group wellbeing, and taking action if anyone becomes unwell.

Before travelling, think about your own physical condition and consult a medical professional if you have concerns – especially if you have underlying health issues. If possible, arriving a day or two early at altitude is a great way to help your body adjust.

Your travel insurance must cover the maximum altitude reached on this trip and include emergency evacuation.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

You can hike Cotopaxi all year round, however, December and January are the best months due to low rainfall and far less wind. June and July are the driest months, although they can be very windy. Cotopaxi is also blessed with the highest number of clear days per year in the Ecuadorian Andes.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 249kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.

Adventure in Your Inbox

First dibs. Practical advice. Fresh inspiration. Plus the odd nice surprise.

See how we handle your data in our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

Still Undecided? 🇬🇧 🇺🇸

A few other trips to tickle your fancy 🇬🇧 🇺🇸

    Explore places you couldn't yourself

    Explore places you couldn't yourself

    All trips are led by certified expert guides, unlocking life experiences in places most never see.

    Go with the outdoor specialists

    Go with the outdoor specialists

    Choose from 200+ award-winning active outdoor adventures in wild places, whatever your mood.

    Join a small like-minded group

    Join a small like-minded group

    75% join our trips as solo travellers, with most in their 30s-50s. 95% give our group dynamic 5 stars.

    Hassle-free from start to finish

    Hassle-free from start to finish

    We've sorted the logistics, so you can just rock up and have a blast in the wild.

    Our Purpose

    To protect our world's wild places, one adventure at a time.

    Book With Confidence

    Find out how your booking with Much Better Adventures is protected through our ABTOT membership
    ABTOT logoABTA logoATOL logo

    Positive impact adventure travel

    Bcorp Logo
    Responsible travel has always been at the core of what we do. Travelling with Much Better Adventures means not just better trips for you, it's better for local communities, better for wildlife and better for the planet.
    Learn More
    About
    Customers
    Travel Companies
    Partners
    Much Better Adventures Logo
    © Copyright Gentianes Solutions Ltd.Registration Number 06916506 (England and Wales)