Rumiñahui (volcano) Mountain

Stratovolcano near Quito popular with hikers and panoramas

Rumiñahui rises in Cotopaxi Province near Latacunga as a volcanic peak within the Andean range; mountaineers and trekkers use established routes to reach ridgelines and crater views.

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Rumiñahui (volcano) at a Glance#

Address: Rumiñahui (volcano), Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador

Admission: Free (natural feature)

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About Rumiñahui (volcano)#

Rumiñahui is a stratovolcano in Ecuador’s Andes, located in Cotopaxi Province. It is a prominent, often snowcapped peak that forms part of the volcanic chain around Quito.

The volcano reaches an elevation of approximately 4,721 metres and is a destination for mountaineers and trekkers who approach from nearby highland towns. Its eroded summit and steep flanks distinguish it from neighboring volcanoes.

Rumiñahui lies south of the city of Quito within the central Sierra region of Ecuador and is part of the highland volcanic landscape of Cotopaxi Province.

  • Elevation: Rises to about 4,721 metres above sea level and is a prominent peak in Cotopaxi Province, often climbed by experienced mountaineers.

Tips for Visiting Rumiñahui (volcano)#

  • Go very early in the day for the best visibility of surrounding peaks - cloud and haze build in the highlands later on, obscuring long-distance views.
  • Acclimatize in Quito or lower elevations for at least a day before heading up; the highland terrain can produce shortness of breath even on relatively short walks.
  • Arrange transport or a local guide from Sangolquí/Quito-routes are on mountain roads and a guide will know the safest trailheads and current conditions.

Best Time to Visit Rumiñahui (volcano)#

For climbing or trekking, the dry season (June-September) offers the most stable weather and clearer skies, but nights remain freezing year‑round.

Dry season (best for trekking)
June-September · Day: ~0-10°C; Night: often below freezing
Drier, clearer weather and the most reliable conditions for climbs or high‑altitude treks, though nights remain freezing.
Wet season
October-May · Day: ~0-8°C; Night: below freezing possible
More frequent cloud, rain and snow at higher elevations - visibility and trail conditions are often poorer.
High‑altitude conditions year‑round
January-December · Wide diurnal swings with cold nights and cool days
Because of its elevation, expect strong sun, cold nights and the need for acclimatization and warm gear whenever you go.

Weather & Climate near Rumiñahui (volcano)#

Climate

Rumiñahui (volcano)'s climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 1°C to 13°C. Abundant rainfall (1147 mm/year), wettest in April.

Air Quality: AQI 55 Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
13°
Warmest Month
1°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 2° - 13° 5° 89 mm - - 3.7 m/s - -
February - 2° - 12° 5° 109 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
March - 2° - 12° 5° 118 mm - - 3.3 m/s - -
April - 2° - 12° 5° 121 mm - - 3.3 m/s - -
May - 2° - 12° 5° 116 mm - - 3.4 m/s - -
June - 1° - 12° 4° 90 mm - - 4.0 m/s - -
July - 1° - 12° 3° 70 mm - - 4.7 m/s - -
August - 1° - 12° 3° 51 mm - - 4.6 m/s - -
September - 1° - 13° 4° 69 mm - - 4.1 m/s - -
October - 1° - 13° 5° 115 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
November - 2° - 13° 5° 114 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
December - 2° - 13° 5° 85 mm - - 3.6 m/s - -