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Parque La Carolina: Quito's Urban Oasis

Escape to Quito's vibrant Parque La Carolina: recreation, nature, and culture in the heart of the city. A green oasis for all ages.

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Parque La Carolina, a sprawling 165.5-acre park in the heart of Quito's business district, offers a green escape with sports fields, botanical gardens, a lagoon, and cultural venues. It's a vibrant hub for locals and tourists alike, providing diverse recreational and cultural experiences.

A brief summary to Parque La Carolina

  • Parque, Quito, La Carolina, 170506, EC

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and cooler temperatures.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas, as many locals do.
  • Don't miss the Botanical Garden located within the park for a unique plant experience.
  • Check the park's event calendar for special concerts and cultural activities during your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park is large and perfect for walking or jogging.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Parque La Carolina is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many parts of Quito's modern city center. From the Naciones Unidas Avenue area, walk south along Avenida de los Shyris, and the park will be on your left. From the Mariscal Sucre district, head north along Avenida Amazonas until you reach the park. No costs are involved in accessing the park on foot.

  • Public Transport

    Quito's Metro offers convenient access to Parque La Carolina. The Iñaquito and La Carolina stations are both located along the park's perimeter. A single Metro ride costs around $0.45. Alternatively, numerous bus lines serve the area around Parque La Carolina. Bus fares are approximately $0.35 per ride. Look for buses with 'La Carolina' on their destination boards. The Trolebús and Ecovía also have stops near the park.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Quito and offer a direct way to reach Parque La Carolina. A short taxi ride from the Mariscal Sucre area to the park typically costs between $2 and $5. Ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

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Discover more about Parque La Carolina

Parque La Carolina, located in the Iñaquito area of Quito, is a 64-hectare (165.5-acre) green space that provides a welcome escape from the bustling city. Once part of the Hacienda La Carolina, the land was donated to the city in 1939 and transformed into a recreational area. Today, it stands as one of the largest urban parks in Ecuador, offering a wide array of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park is a popular spot for sports enthusiasts, with facilities for soccer, basketball, tennis, and the Ecuadorian variation of volleyball, ecua-volley. Jogging and cycling paths wind through the park, and a skate park caters to bicyclists and skateboarders. For those seeking relaxation, paddle boats are available for rent on the small lagoon. La Carolina also boasts cultural attractions, including the Quito Botanical Garden, which showcases a diverse collection of native plant species. The park also features the Vivarium, where visitors can see reptiles and amphibians. Throughout the year, Parque La Carolina hosts events such as open-air concerts and art fairs, adding to its vibrant atmosphere. A giant cross commemorates Pope John Paul II's visit to the park in 1985. With its blend of green spaces, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions, Parque La Carolina offers something for everyone and is a must-visit destination in Quito.

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