Cotopaxi National Park

Ecuador, South America

Cotopaxi National Park is a stunning expanse of Andean beauty, known for its iconic snow-capped volcano, Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Adventure seekers flock here for breathtaking hiking trails, diverse ecosystems, and opportunities to spot unique wildlife like wild horses and Andean condors. With its dramatic landscapes and cultural heritage, including ancient Incan trails, Cotopaxi offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Chachoan

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Cotopaxi National Park

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike to Cotopaxi Glacier

Trek to stunning glacial views at Cotopaxi.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Limpiopungo Lake

Visit a serene lake with breathtaking mountain views.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Visit Rumiñahui Volcano

Discover the beauty of this lesser-known volcano.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wildlife Watching

Spot unique Andean wildlife in their natural habitat.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography at Cotopaxi

Capture stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Cultural Tour

Learn about local traditions and indigenous culture.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Mountain Biking

Ride through scenic trails around Cotopaxi.

Booking required
8

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Camp at Cotopaxi

Experience the great outdoors with camping.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Horseback Riding

Explore the park on horseback for scenic views.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cotopaxi Interpretation Center

Learn about the park's ecology and history.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Encebollado

Fish stew with yuca and onions (National dish)

Ceviche

Citrus-marinated seafood dish

Llapingachos

V

Potato patties served with peanut sauce

Hornado

Roasted pork with crispy skin

Seco de Chivo

Goat stew with spices and beer

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)