Cotopaxi National Park: An Andean Jewel
Discover the majestic Cotopaxi National Park: Hike volcanic landscapes, spot unique wildlife, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes.
Cotopaxi National Park, named for the towering Cotopaxi volcano, is a stunning protected area in the Ecuadorian Andes. It offers diverse landscapes, from high-altitude plains to glacial lakes, and a chance to witness unique wildlife and experience the raw beauty of the Andes.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
Local tips
- Acclimatize to the altitude in Quito for a few days before visiting the park to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
- Bring warm layers, rain gear, and sturdy hiking boots, as the weather in the park can be unpredictable.
- Visit the park early in the morning to increase your chances of seeing clear skies and unobstructed views of the volcano.
- Register with a park ranger at the entrance for safety and to learn about current conditions and camping restrictions.
- Consider hiring a local guide for transportation and to enhance your experience with their knowledge of the park's flora, fauna, and history.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Quito, take a bus from the Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe south towards Latacunga or Ambato. Ask the driver to drop you off at the El Chasqui entrance (Control Sur) to Cotopaxi National Park, approximately 1.5-2 hours from Quito; the fare is around $2. From the highway, hire a local guide with a truck or taxi for transport within the park; negotiate the price, typically $20-$30, depending on your destination.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Quito, but negotiate the fare in advance. A round-trip to Cotopaxi National Park can cost $80 - $120 or more, depending on the taxi company, your negotiation skills, and the length of time you plan to spend in the park. Ensure the driver is aware of your intended destinations within the park, as the entrance is several miles from the main attractions.
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Driving
From Quito, take the Pan-American Highway (E35) south. The drive to the main entrance (El Chasqui) takes about 1.5-2 hours. The road to the park is paved to the entrance but can be rough in sections. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season. Parking is available at the park's visitor center and near the Limpiopungo Lagoon. Be aware that gasoline/petrol prices are fixed by the government and usually range around $2.40 per gallon.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
CotopaxGlam Lodge - Pueblito Mágico
13.0 km
Discover the beauty of the Andes at CotopaxGlam Lodge, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of Ecuador's stunning landscapes.
Hacienda Yanahurco
16.3 km
Discover the serene Hacienda Yanahurco, a unique dude ranch experience at the edge of Cotopaxi National Park, blending adventure with tranquility.
Hacienda Los Mortiños
16.4 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich culture of Cotopaxi National Park from the comfort of Hacienda Los Mortiños, a charming hotel with breathtaking views.
Piedra La Chilintosa
17.0 km
Explore Piedra La Chilintosa, Ecuador's largest rock formation, where nature and adventure combine for an unforgettable experience.
Mirador De Los Volcanes Cotopaxi-Ecuador
17.2 km
Discover the culinary treasures and breathtaking views at Mirador De Los Volcanes in Cotopaxi, Ecuador – a must-visit for every traveler.
Rondador Cotopaxi
17.5 km
Discover the heart of Ecuador at Rondador Cotopaxi, your perfect base for exploring Cotopaxi National Park's breathtaking landscapes and rich culture.
Hacienda El Porvenir by Tierra del Volcán
18.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Hacienda El Porvenir, your gateway to the stunning Cotopaxi National Park.
National Recreation Area El Boliche
18.4 km
Discover the natural wonders of National Recreation Area El Boliche, an ecological paradise in Ecuador perfect for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
Cuscungo Cotopaxi - Hostel & Lodge
18.6 km
Explore breathtaking landscapes and cozy accommodations at Cuscungo Cotopaxi Hostel & Lodge, your gateway to adventure in Cotopaxi National Park.
Chilcabamba Lodge
19.8 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Chilcabamba Lodge, a charming mountain retreat in the heart of Ecuador's stunning Andes.
The Secret Garden Cotopaxi
22.4 km
Experience the natural beauty of Ecuador at The Secret Garden Cotopaxi, the perfect hostel for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Hacienda La Ciénega
22.5 km
Experience the charm of Hacienda La Ciénega, a historic hotel in Latacunga, Ecuador, offering stunning scenery and authentic local cuisine.
Complejo Recreacional Daryce
25.3 km
Experience the natural beauty of Ecuador at Complejo Recreacional Daryce, your gateway to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa in Tanicuchi.
Balcon Al Cotopaxi Hosteria
25.8 km
Experience the breathtaking views and serene nature at Balcon Al Cotopaxi Hosteria, a perfect retreat in the heart of Ecuador's stunning landscapes.
CotopaxiPungo
25.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of CotopaxiPungo, your gateway to the stunning Cotopaxi Volcano and an unforgettable Ecuadorian adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Morurco
1.9 km
Explore Morurco, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Tanicuchí, Ecuador, where stunning views and rich culture await every traveler.
Volcan Cotopaxi
2.1 km
Explore Volcan Cotopaxi, an iconic national park in Ecuador known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and thrilling adventure opportunities.
Cotopaxi
2.1 km
Discover Cotopaxi, Ecuador's iconic volcano, offering breathtaking views, adventure, and a rich cultural experience in the heart of the Andes.
Refugio Cotopaxi (Jose Ribas)
4.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cotopaxi at Refugio Cotopaxi, your mountain retreat for adventure and tranquility in Ecuador's stunning highlands.
Cañón Rojo
6.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cañón Rojo, a stunning natural wonder in Cotopaxi, Ecuador, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Climb Cotopaxi Ecuador
6.8 km
Experience the thrill of climbing Cotopaxi, Ecuador's iconic active volcano, and witness breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
laguna Santo Domingo
7.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Santo Domingo, a breathtaking lagoon in Ecuador surrounded by lush nature and vibrant wildlife, perfect for peaceful retreats.
laguna de Cajas
9.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Laguna de Cajas, a serene lake in Ecuador's Andean highlands, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing local culture.
Cotopaxi Visitors Center
9.8 km
Explore the Cotopaxi Visitors Center, your gateway to the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano and the wonders of Ecuador's natural heritage.
Laguna de Limpiopung
10.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Laguna de Limpiopung, a hidden gem in Ecuador, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Laguna De Limpiopungo
10.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Laguna De Limpiopungo, a glacial lake nestled in the Andes, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife near Cotopaxi.
El Manantial
11.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of El Manantial, a stunning tourist attraction in El Mudadero, Ecuador, perfect for nature enthusiasts and explorers alike.
Cerro el Morro
12.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich biodiversity at Cerro el Morro, Ecuador's captivating natural attraction for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Cotopaxi- Administration National Park
14.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Cotopaxi National Park, home to stunning landscapes and the majestic Cotopaxi volcano.
Northern entrance to the Cotopaxi National Park
15.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and adventure-filled trails at the northern entrance of Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador's natural treasure.
Essential places to dine
Cotopaxi CaraSur. Refugio
6.6 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Cotopaxi CaraSur, where breathtaking views meet traditional flavors in the heart of the Andes.
Restaurante Tambopaxi
12.7 km
Experience exquisite Ecuadorian cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at Restaurante Tambopaxi in Cotopaxi National Park.
Chasqui Mirador Cotopaxi
17.2 km
Discover Chasqui Mirador Cotopaxi: Enjoy authentic Ecuadorian cuisine with breathtaking views near Cotopaxi National Park.
RUTA DE LOS VOLCANES
19.5 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Ruta de los Volcanes in Machachi, surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes.
Cuscungo Restaurante
20.9 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian flavors at Cuscungo Restaurante near Cotopaxi National Park, where every dish tells a story.
Casa Guillo
21.3 km
Experience the best of Ecuadorian cuisine at Casa Guillo – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
campo y nata
21.6 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Campo y Nata, where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in a charming setting.
Pappa, cocina ecuatoriana
22.4 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian flavors at Pappa in Latacunga - a delightful restaurant showcasing traditional dishes from the Sierra region.
El Chozon de Antonio - La Avelina
24.3 km
Discover delightful sundaes at El Chozon de Antonio - La Avelina, where local flavors meet creative desserts in Latacunga.
DELICATESEN RESAURANT SAL Y PIMIENTA - Parador, Restaurantes y venta de Artesanias en Ecuador
24.5 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Sal y Pimienta in Tanicuchí - where every dish tells a story.
Los Nevados restaurante
25.3 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Los Nevados in Latacunga – a must-visit for every food lover exploring Ecuador.
La Cocina de Judith
31.1 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at La Cocina de Judith, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Restaurante Flambé
32.6 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Restaurante Flambé in Latacunga - where every dish tells a story.
Terraza Resto Bar
32.7 km
Experience vibrant flavors and stunning views at Terraza Resto Bar in Latacunga – where culinary art meets local charm.
Pizzería Buon Giorno
32.8 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Pizzería Buon Giorno in Latacunga – where every slice tells a delicious story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
El Alto Cotopaxi - Elalco CIA. LTDA.
17.4 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian craftsmanship and sustainable lumber products at El Alto Cotopaxi, where nature meets artistry.
Viveres Nahomi
17.6 km
Discover the essential convenience of Viveres Nahomi at the gateway to Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador's iconic natural treasure.
AYLLU diseño, confección y personalización
20.4 km
Discover AYLLU in Latacunga for exceptional outdoor clothing that combines style, functionality, and local craftsmanship, perfect for your Ecuadorian adventures.
Aglomerados Cotopaxi S.A
20.8 km
Explore Aglomerados Cotopaxi S.A., where Ecuador's rich lumber heritage meets sustainable craftsmanship in a picturesque setting.
Caspi Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
20.9 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and thrilling adventures at Caspi Parque Nacional Cotopaxi, home to the majestic Cotopaxi volcano.
Mary Store
21.2 km
Discover the essential convenience of Mary Store in Latacunga, your go-to stop for local snacks and essentials while exploring Ecuador.
SHEIN LATACUNGA
21.6 km
Explore the latest trends in women's fashion at SHEIN Latacunga, a stylish boutique that offers chic clothing and accessories for every occasion.
COTOPAXI STORE Sucursal
24.4 km
Discover the heart of Ecuadorian culture through vibrant clothing and accessories at Cotopaxi Store in Tanicuchí.
Minimarket mis dos angelitos
25.4 km
Discover local flavors and unique finds at Minimarket Mis Dos Angelitos, the charming store in Tanicuchí that captures the essence of Ecuadorian culture.
Floranation
25.6 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Ecuador at Floranation, Saquisilí's beloved grocery store, offering fresh produce and local delicacies.
Kaleth Boutique
26.0 km
Explore Kaleth Boutique in Machachi for exquisite men's formal wear and elegant dresses, blending local craftsmanship with modern fashion trends.
TRAVESURAS - Tienda Erotica y Sex Shop en Ecuador
26.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of adult collectibles at Travesuras, Machachi's premier erotic and sex shop, celebrating human sexuality with a diverse selection.
vicky fashion line
26.1 km
Explore the vibrant styles of Vicky Fashion Line in Machachi, where local fashion meets trendy designs for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Nik Center
26.1 km
Discover the vibrant Nik Center in Saquisilí, Ecuador, your go-to destination for traditional handicrafts and modern essentials.
Criadero de cuyes Santa Marianita
29.6 km
Explore the unique world of cuyes at Criadero de Cuyes Santa Marianita, where culture and cuisine blend seamlessly in an unforgettable experience.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gastro Bar Karaoke El CHOZON
10.1 km
Experience the joy of singing and savoring local drinks at Gastro Bar Karaoke El CHOZON, the heart of Latacunga's nightlife.
Hotel Cuello de Luna - Cotopaxi
18.4 km
Experience the charm of Hotel Cuello de Luna in Cotopaxi, where comfort meets adventure amidst stunning Ecuadorian landscapes.
The Jochs Bar Karaoke
29.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Latacunga at The Jochs Bar Karaoke, where unforgettable moments and great music await.
La Casona del Pacho
30.0 km
Discover the lively spirit of Latacunga at La Casona del Pacho, a vibrant bar perfect for unwinding with drinks and local culture.
DleYt BAR KARAOKE
31.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Latacunga at DleYt BAR KARAOKE, where every night is a celebration of music and fun.
Arkadia
31.8 km
Discover Arkadia, a vibrant bar offering creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city, perfect for unwinding and socializing.
Bar Karaoke La Cocha
31.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Karaoke La Cocha in Latacunga, where every night is filled with music, fun, and unforgettable moments.
ROCK EN CALI
32.3 km
Discover the essence of Ecuadorian nightlife at ROCK EN CALI, a vibrant bar in Latacunga offering live music and an eclectic drink selection.
Hostel Sendero De Volcanes
32.6 km
Discover the beauty of Ecuador from Hostel Sendero De Volcanes - the perfect blend of comfort and adventure in Latacunga.
White Rabbit Restaurant Bar
32.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Ecuador and beyond at White Rabbit Restaurant Bar, a culinary jewel in the heart of Latacunga.
Karaoke San Viernes
32.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Latacunga at Karaoke San Viernes, where singing, dancing, and fun come together in a lively bar atmosphere.
Zona cero disco bar
32.8 km
Discover the Thrilling Atmosphere of Zona Cero Disco Bar - A Nightlife Gem in the Heart of the City!
Las Moradas Bar-Billar
32.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Las Moradas Bar-Billar, where great drinks and billiards unite in the heart of Latacunga.
SAN VIERNES EL MIRADOR - BAR
32.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at San Viernes El Mirador, a top bar in Trajano Naranjo, perfect for a night out.
Cotopaxi Drinks
32.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Cotopaxi Drinks, a top gastropub in Latacunga, blending delicious cuisine and entertainment for an unforgettable evening.
