Cotopaxi National Park
Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
An active volcano national park about 50 km south of Quito, where a perfectly conical snowcap rises to 5,897 m above high-altitude lakes and wild horses.
Cotopaxi rises to 5,897 m and is one of the world's highest active volcanoes. Its symmetrical snowy cone is a symbol of Ecuador. A day trip usually involves driving to Limpiopungo Lake (about 3,800 m) to walk around it and see wild horses and Rumiñahui Volcano, then driving to a car park at about 4,500 m, from where you can hike steep slopes up to the José Rivas Refuge at about 4,864 m. Fit hikers can continue to the edge of the glacier. Entry is free (registration required), and many day tours from Quito cost about USD 60–80. The altitude is high, so allow a day or two to acclimatize.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–15:00 entry
Nearby sights
- Papallacta Hot Springs
- El Panecillo & Virgin of Quito
- Itchimbía Park & Crystal Palace
- Santo Domingo Church & Plaza
- La Ronda
- Museo de la Ciudad
- Casa del Alabado Museum
- Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía)