Cotopaxi Express

The Express is RMI's condensed Cotopaxi program — nine days, focused acclimatization on Rucu Pichincha and Illiniza Norte, then one big summit push from the Jose Ribas refugio at 16,000 feet. Level 3 mountaineering on real glacier terrain. The right choice for climbers with tight calendars or those who specifically want Cotopaxi without committing to the full two-summit Ecuador Volcanoes expedition.

Cotopaxi asks for boots, crampons, ice axe, and a 0°F-rated bag — heavy items that don't earn their keep if you only climb once a year. Our rental shop in Ashford fits and ships gear maintained season after season by staff who outfit RMI climbers every week.

This collection mirrors RMI's official equipment list for the Cotopaxi Express. Twelve-point automatic crampons, an ice axe sized 65-75 cm to your height, an insulated parka extending below the waist, and a minimum 5-layer upper / 4-layer lower system — all calibrated for steep glaciated terrain and a cold midnight start to the summit.