Corazón (volcano)
Mountain Andean volcano near Quito offering alpine climbs
Located in Pichincha Province near Quito, Corazón is a stratovolcano crossed by day hikes. Trekkers use its trails for highland páramo scenery and lookout vistas toward Cotopaxi and surrounding Andean peaks.
Corazón is a stratovolcano in Pichincha Province in western Ecuador, situated within the Andean mountain chain. Its summit reaches roughly 4,790 metres above sea level, making it one of the higher peaks in the region.
The mountain is non-urban and is crossed by several mountain trails used by hikers and climbers; from the upper slopes there are wide views toward nearby volcanic peaks. It is classed as a volcanic edifice within the Ecuadorian volcanic arc.
Corazón has not been a major historically active volcano in recorded modern eruptions and is primarily visited for trekking and highland scenery rather than for volcanic tourism specifically.
The volcano lies on the western side of the Ecuadorian Andes, within Pichincha Province and accessible from highland towns and trailheads in the surrounding valleys.
- Elevation and setting: Summit elevation is approximately 4,790 metres, and the volcano forms part of the Andean volcanic belt west of Quito.
- Recreation: Accessible by established highland trails, the mountain is a destination for experienced hikers and mountaineers seeking summit views of neighboring peaks.
How to Get to Corazón (volcano) #
Access is usually via road from Quito; the nearest towns provide trailheads and guide services. Many climbing parties organize transport and guides from Quito or from smaller Andean towns close to the mountain.
Tips for Visiting Corazón (volcano) #
- Ascents of Corazón require acclimatization-plan at least one full day in Quito (or similar altitude) beforehand to reduce altitude sickness risk.
- Hire an experienced local mountain guide; the route can involve glacial crossings and shifting weather.
- Check with Ecuador's national park authorities for regulations and whether permits are required for the route you plan to take.
Best Time to Visit Corazón (volcano) #
The dry season (June-September) offers the most reliable conditions for ascents; weather at high altitude is always unpredictable.
Weather & Climate near Corazón (volcano) #
Corazón (volcano)'s climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from -2°C to 9°C. Moderate rainfall (792 mm/year).
January
January is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -1°C. The wettest month with 95 mm of rain.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
