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HIKING BETWEEN
3,600 & 4,200 METRES
Cotopaxi shows no signs of
approaching decrepitude, and for many centuries yet to
come it may remain the highest active volcano in the
world; or perchance the imprisoned forces may find an
easier outlet, through barriers offering less resistance,
and either Sangai, Tungurahua, or Pichincha may become
the premier volcano of the Equator.
Edward Whimper, 1892.
Cotopaxi, is the centerpiece of the
Cotopaxi National Park, which lies about 55 km south of
Quito and whose symmetrical cone can often be seen from
the capital on a clear day. Within its borders, the park
has an administrative centre and museum. There are also
picnic areas, camping sites, huts, and a refuge. Inside
this national park are smaller peaks such as Rumiñahui
(4,712 m, 11,968 ft) and Morurco (4,840 m, 12,294 ft)
which offer excellent hiking and camping opportunities.
Suggested itinerary:
| Day
1. |
We
leave Quito early in the morning and arrive at a
recreation area within Cotapaxi National Park
called "El Boliche". From this point we
will start to hike upwards towards a ridge which
we will follow until the base of Rumiñahui. Here
we will take a brief lunch break and afterwards
turn south along a gentle ridge and eventually
reach our camp where we will spend the night.
Dinner will be served. |
| Day
2. |
After
breakfast we will cross over flat plains for
approximately 3 hours. We will arrive at some
archeological ruins called Pucara Salitre
where the guides will give a description of the
ruins. Lunch will be served, and we will return
to Quito by early evening. |
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Trekking in Ecuador: Cotopaxi