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Parque La Carolina: Quito's Urban Oasis

Escape to Quito's vibrant urban park with sports, gardens, and cultural attractions, a perfect green haven in the heart of the city.

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Parque La Carolina, a sprawling 165.5-acre park in the heart of Quito's bustling business district, offers a green escape for locals and tourists alike. Once part of a historic hacienda, the park now features sports facilities, gardens, a lagoon, and cultural venues, making it a vibrant hub of recreation and relaxation.

A brief summary to Parque La Carolina

  • Parque, Quito, La Carolina, 170506, EC

Local tips

  • Visit on a Sunday to experience the park's lively atmosphere with street performers and vendors.
  • Explore the Quito Botanical Garden within the park to discover Ecuador's diverse plant life.
  • Rent a paddle boat on the lagoon for a relaxing way to enjoy the park's scenery.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the grassy lawns.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Old Town, take the Trolebús (trolleybus) north to the 'Estadio' station. The park is a short walk from the station. Trolebús fare is $0.38. Alternatively, the Ecovía bus line also has stops near the park.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Quito. A taxi from the city center to Parque La Carolina typically costs between $2 and $5. Ensure the driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of the New Town, particularly near Avenida Amazonas, Parque La Carolina is easily accessible by foot. Simply head north towards the park, using the Naciones Unidas Avenue as a reference point. There are well-maintained pedestrian walkways leading into the park from all sides.

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Discover more about Parque La Carolina

Parque La Carolina, located in the Iñaquito area of Quito, is more than just a park; it's a dynamic urban space with a rich history. Originally part of the La Carolina farm, which was expropriated in 1939, the park was designed in 1976 and has since evolved into one of the city's most important metropolitan recreation areas. The park offers a diverse range of activities and attractions. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy soccer, basketball, tennis, and the traditional Ecuadorian game of ecuavolley. For those seeking relaxation, there are walking paths, picnic areas, and a lagoon where paddle boats can be rented. The Quito Botanical Garden, located within the park, showcases Ecuador's incredible biodiversity, including a wide variety of orchids and Andean flora. The park also features the Vivarium, where visitors can see reptiles and amphibians, and the Museo de Ciencias Naturales. La Carolina is a popular gathering place, especially on weekends, when families and friends come to enjoy the outdoors. The park also holds historical significance, as Pope John Paul II held a large mass here in 1985, commemorated by a giant Christian cross. With its blend of nature, culture, and recreation, Parque La Carolina offers something for everyone and is a must-visit destination in Quito.

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