The 5 day acclimatization program is designed to educate and instruct people in high altitude mountain climbing of 4,000 – 6,000 meters (13123 - 19685feet) in Ecuador. Our mountain base Hosteria PapaGayo is nestled in the avenue of the volcanoes and is a perfect location because of its altitude 3,200meters (10498 feet) and proximity to the volcanoes. With the assistance of a qualified and bilingual guide, this program acclimatizes and increases the fitness of climbers so it is possible to make a successful climb of some of the highest volcanoes in South America. Over the 5 day tour you will reach the summit of 3 of Ecuador’s most famous volcanoes, the Pasochoa, the Illinizas North and 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 of climbing some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.
Tour Schedule
(Note: All times are approximate, except starting time)
Please note: Program includes the night before the first climb at Hosteria PapGayo.
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Day One: Pasochoa 4,199m (13,700ft)
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08:30
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A sumptuous breakfast of your choice will be served bright and early in preparation for your first climb.
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09:30
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We will depart by car to the base of Pasochoa.
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12:30
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The first climb begins. Make sure to take your camera, as this hike provides many beautiful photo opportunities!
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14:30
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Reach summit. A packed lunch will also be served to keep your energy up.
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16:30
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Upon returning to PapaGayo you will be rewarded with a delicious slice of cake and a steaming cup of coffee or tea.
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Day Two: Illinizas Norte 5,126m (16,800ft)
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06:30
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A delicious breakfast of your choice will be served bright and early in preparation for your climb.
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07:00
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We will depart by car to the base of the Illinizas.
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08:30
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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!
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12:00
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Lunch.
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13:30
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Reach the summit.
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16:30
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Upon returning to PapaGayo a delicious slice of cake and a steaming coffee/ tea will be waiting for you.
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Day Three: Day Off at PapaGayo 3,200m (10,498ft)
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08:00
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A giant breakfast of your choice will be served in preparation for your day.
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10:00
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Optional hiking or biking in the area of PapaGayo or relax in the Hosterias gardens… You can take a lunch box or have lunch after the tour at PapaGayo.
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Day Four: Cotopaxi Preparations 4,800m (15,748ft)
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08:00
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A giant breakfast of your choice will be served in preparation for your day.
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10:00
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Pick up from PapaGayo and check equipment.
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11:00
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Depart for Cotopaxi National Park
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12:00
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Arrive at the parking lot at 4,500m and begin hike up to “Jose Rivas” refuge.
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13:00
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Reach refuge at 4.800m.
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14:00
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Lunch.
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15:00
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Depending on the weather and program, begin mountaineering instruction and get explanation on the climb:
- Crampon techniques.
- Ice axe use.
- Self arrest.
- Roped team travel.
- Pressure breathing.
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17:30
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Dinner.
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18:30
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Sleep.
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23:30
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Wake-up, eat a small snack and gear up for climb.
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24:00
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Begin climbing!
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Day Five: The Final Climb Cotopaxi 5,897m (19,300ft)
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Sunrise
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Depending on your climbing experience, you will arrive at the Summit of Cotopaxi for a magnificent display of colors as the morning sun begins to flood the sky.
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10:00
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Arrive to the Refugio, after a successful climb, enjoy much deserved snacks.
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11:30
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Leave Cotopaxi National Park towards PapaGayo.
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13:00
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For an addition $10, a delicious and relaxing lunch will be served back at PapaGayo, complete with beer to mark this special occasion (Included in Royal package).
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14:30
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Stay at PapaGayo or return to Quito (transport only included in Royal package).
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It is important that you have current travel insurance including personal medical insurance. Please inform us of any known medical conditions you have.
All Gulliver cars come with advanced satellite tracking devices to control position and speed, or for extra safety in an unlikely case of an accident. Every car has full insurance.
We always make sure to fulfill the highest security and safety standards for all our clients.
We put a lot of effort into organizing the tour, therefore cancellations require minimum 24 hours’ notice. 50% refund will be given back. Cancellations will not be refunded with a shorter time notice.
Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances (such as weather conditions or health risks), there may be a chance that you will be unable to reach the summit of Cotopaxi. That being said however, we do promise not only a fantastic but unforgettable experience, complete with fully qualified and highly experienced guides, fresh and hearty meals, lots of laughter, and of course good cold beers!
Please note tips for our guides are not included in the price. If you enjoyed your trip, a tip of around 10% would be greatly appreciated.
GOOD LUCK, HAVE FUN AND ENJOY YOUR ADVENTURE!
Contact Us
+593 (2) 2528030
+972 (72) 233 1536