Use onX Backcountry to explore the terrain in 3D, view recent satellite imagery, and more. Now available in onX Backcountry Mobile apps! For more information see this post.
Elevation: 19,347 ft
GPS: -0.6806, -78.4378
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views: 10,037 total · 53/month
Shared By: John Ross on Oct 2, 2008
Admins:

Description Suggest change

At 5,897 m (19,347 ft), Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world and is the second highest peak in Ecuador. Cotopaxi’s first recorded summit was in 1872 by Wilhelm Rajss and A.M. Escobar. Most parties climb the peak via the Northern Route after staying in the José Ribas Hut. Cotopaxi’s glaciated cone shape is a wonder to see rising out of the plain below. The views are spectacular when climbing on a clear day.

Starting Elevation (José Ribas Hut): 4,794 m (15,729 ft)
Summit Elevation: 5,897 m (19,347 ft)
Elevation Gain: 1,103 m (3,618 ft) from José Ribas Hut
Volcanic Status: “Active” (currently in a tranquil period)
Most recent major eruption: 1904
Most recent volcanic activity: 2015

Getting There Suggest change

Cotopaxi is located 45 kilometers (28 miles) to the south of Ecuador’s capital city of Quito and is easily seen on the Quito skyline. To get there follow the Pan-American Highway to the main entrance of Cotopaxi National Park, followed by graded dirt roads to the car park at 4,603 m (15,100 ft). It is a 45 minute walk up dirt/rock switchbacks to the José Ribas Hut. Be prepared to pay park entrance fees and hut fees.

1 Total Climbs

Route Finder - Best Climbs for YOU!

Location: Cotopaxi Change
Type:  to 
Quality:
Pitches:
Sort by:   then:
 

Classic Climbing Routes at Cotopaxi

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
Mod. Snow
 43
Regular Route
Trad, Snow, Alpine
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
Regular Route
 43
Mod. Snow Trad, Snow, Alpine
More Classic Climbs in Cotopaxi »

Sun & Shade Suggest change

Weather Averages

High
 
Low
 
Precip
 
Days w Precip
 
Prime Climbing Season
J F M A M J J A S O N D
J F M A M J J A S O N D

Photos

loading