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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

10 Best Things to Do in Cotopaxi National Park

1. Hike to Cotopaxi Glacier

Trek to stunning glacial views at Cotopaxi.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

4 hrs

2. Explore Limpiopungo Lake

Visit a serene lake with breathtaking mountain views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Visit Rumiñahui Volcano

Discover the beauty of this lesser-known volcano.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

3 hrs

4. Wildlife Watching

Spot unique Andean wildlife in their natural habitat.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Photography at Cotopaxi

Capture stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Attend a Cultural Tour

Learn about local traditions and indigenous culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

7. Mountain Biking

Ride through scenic trails around Cotopaxi.

Available all year

Adults only

Booking required

3 hrs

8. Camp at Cotopaxi

Experience the great outdoors with camping.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

8 hrs

9. Horseback Riding

Explore the park on horseback for scenic views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Visit the Cotopaxi Interpretation Center

Learn about the park's ecology and history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

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)