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

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.

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’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 😊

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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!

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 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 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.

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

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.

Lovely adventure!

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!

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-
7. No need for a small thermos unless you want to take it on your summit trip to Cotopaxi.
8. 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
9. Bring a portable power source to charge your phone/devices.

This is an adventure of a lifetime!

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!

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

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!

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.

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!

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.