Cotopaxi National Park
Ecuador · Sierra · 3800 m
Description
Cotopaxi National Park (Parque Nacional Cotopaxi) lies in the Andes south of Quito and protects one of Ecuador's most spectacular highland landscapes. The park is dominated by the 5,897-meter Cotopaxi, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, whose nearly perfect snow-capped cone is among the country's most iconic landmarks. Vast páramo grasslands, Limpiopungo Lagoon, and diverse wildlife shape the landscape. The park is a popular destination for hiking, wildlife watching, mountain biking, and, depending on volcanic activity, high-altitude climbing. Thanks to its proximity to Quito, Cotopaxi National Park is one of Ecuador's most visited natural attractions.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: July – August
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Cotopaxi Volcano
- Cotopaxi Summit Climb(Multi-day trip)
- José Rivas Refuge
- Laguna de Limpiopungo
- Limpiopungo Loop Trail
- Cotopaxi Glacier
- Cotopaxi National Park Páramo
- Wild Horse Watching
- Andean Condor Watching
- Mountain Biking on the Volcano Road
- Avenue of the Volcanoes Viewpoints
- Interpretation Center Mariscal Sucre
- Sincholagua Volcano
- Rumiñahui Volcano Hike
- Pucará del Salitre Ruins