Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park is a protected area in central Ecuador that conserves the Cotopaxi volcanic complex and surrounding high Andean páramo. The park includes the snow-capped cone of Cotopaxi, which reaches 5,897 metres above sea level, and extensive highland ecosystems.

Within the park are accessible visitor sites such as Laguna Limpiopungo at around 3,800 metres, which is used for birdwatching and short walks, and the José Rivas refuge at roughly 4,800 metres, the main staging point for summit attempts. The park’s landscapes include glacial moraine, volcanic ash plains and high-altitude wetlands.

Established in the 1970s, the park lies approximately 50 kilometres south of Quito and is reached by paved and gravel roads from the capital and from nearby towns. It protects a range of Andean flora and fauna including highland birds and native mammals.

The area is popular for mountaineering, short treks and nature observation; climbing the volcano requires experience, appropriate equipment and attention to current volcanic and weather conditions.

• Protection and date: The park was officially established in the 1970s to protect the volcano, Andean páramo and glacial landscapes south of Quito.
• Best time to visit: Best conditions for trekking and climbing are typically during the dry season from June to September when trails and access roads are more reliable.

What to See #

• Cotopaxi volcano: The glaciated cone of Cotopaxi rises to 5,897 metres and is the park's dominant landmark and active stratovolcano.
• Laguna Limpiopungo: Laguna Limpiopungo is a highland lake at roughly 3,800 metres that provides accessible birdwatching and views of the volcano cone.
• José Rivas refuge: The José Rivas refuge sits at about 4,800 metres and serves as the main base for climbers attempting the Cotopaxi summit.