Parque La Carolina, Quito Travel Guide

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Escape to Quito's vibrant green heart: Parque La Carolina offers recreation, culture, and natural beauty for everyone.

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Parque La Carolina

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 a hacienda, the park now features sports fields, walking paths, a botanical garden, and a lagoon, making it a vibrant center for recreation and culture.

A brief summary to Parque La Carolina

Parque, Quito, La Carolina, 170506, EC

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Parque La Carolina.

Visit on weekends for a lively atmosphere with sports, performances, and family activities.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the park is large and requires a good amount of walking.
Explore the Quito Botanical Garden to discover Ecuador's diverse plant species.
Utilize the Quito Metro to easily access the park and avoid parking hassles.
Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the park's grassy lawns.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From anywhere in Quito, take the Quito Metro to either the Iñaquito or La Carolina station, both of which border the park. Alternatively, use the Trolebús or Ecovía bus rapid transit systems; many stops are located along the park's perimeter. A single ride on any of these systems costs around $0.38.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Quito. A short taxi ride to Parque La Carolina from the Mariscal area typically costs $2 to $5, depending on traffic. Be sure the driver uses the taximeter, or negotiate the fare beforehand. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Easy Taxi also operate in Quito.
Walking

Parque La Carolina is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from many parts of Quito's business district. If you are near Avenida Amazonas or Naciones Unidas, simply walk towards the large green space. The park is bordered by these major avenues, making it easy to find.

Discover more about Parque La Carolina

Parque La Carolina, often called the "Central Park of Quito," is a dynamic urban space with a rich history. Originally the site of the Hacienda La Carolina, the land was expropriated in 1939 and transformed into a park, officially opening in 1976. Today, it stands as one of the city's most important recreational areas, drawing an estimated 50,000 visitors each week.The park offers a diverse range of activities. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy soccer, basketball, tennis, and the traditional Ecuadorian game of ecuavolley. Jogging and cycling paths wind through the park, providing ample space for exercise. For those seeking relaxation, the park features picnic areas, gardens, and a lagoon where visitors can rent paddle boats.Key attractions within Parque La Carolina include the Quito Botanical Garden, showcasing Ecuador's native flora, including a wide variety of orchids. The park also houses the Museo de Ciencias Naturales, the Vivarium, and the Quito Exhibition Center. A large cross commemorates Pope John Paul II's visit to the park in 1985.Recent renovations have added new features such as the Rumipamba Boulevard, a dog park, and updated sports facilities, ensuring that Parque La Carolina remains a modern and engaging space for all. The park is easily accessible and provides a welcome respite from the surrounding urban environment.