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Cotopaxi Express: Team Summits Ruca Pinchinca

October 27, 2025

Posted by: Sam Hoffman, Mike Bennett

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Ecuador

Elevation: 15,413'

Elevation - 15,413 feet

Team Summits Ruca Pinchinca!

This morning we started early for our first acclimatization hike of the trip. We opted to skip the Teleferico (Gondola) ride in order to get ahead of some afternoon thunderstorms. Thanks to Hector for driving us up to 12,800’ feet!

It took us 5 hours to reach the summit and return. The hike gradually picks up with grade and we were feeling it towards the top. Today was hard work and the team did great. We got a glimpse of our main goal - Cotopaxi - which built excitement for the days to come.

We will rest for the afternoon and enjoy a team dinner in Quito before moving to Illiniza Norte tomorrow! Wish us luck.

RMI Guide,

Sam Hoffman & Team