11 Oct 2025
It was only due to guide Andres that we made the trip to Cotopaxi at all. We went with him and driver Jimmy to Chimborazo the previous day, and mentioned that we were so disappointed not to see Cotopaxi as well. We had booked a tour but canceled it when our tour to the Galapagos changed schedule and would depart early on 19th. We would have to be back in Quito by 4pm. Andres and Jimmy said no problem, so we booked their tour. Wonderful trip to Cotopaxi! So glad Andres made it work! Jimmy was a very skilled driver, both navigating Quito traffic and climbing the gravel road to the parking area at 15,000 ft. We then hiked to about 16 000 ft. We stayed for a while watching as high winds swept over the peak. Andres kept an eye on the time. They got us back to our hotel precisely at 4pm, with enough time to visit the statue of the Virgin Mary on the way back. Wonderful day! Big thanks to Andres and Jimmy!