Cotopaxi National Park Travel Guide
Travel to Cotopaxi National Park - The Avenue of the Volcanoes
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The view of the perfectly formed snow-covered cone of Cotopaxi rising above the Avenue of the Volcanoes is awesome. Considered the highest active volcano in the world, the neigbouring peaks are equally dramatic and offer outstanding opportunities for activities, adventure or relaxation in breathtaking surroundings.
This is the habitat of the Andean Condor, a tiny Andean hummingbird and the Andean camelids like llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. High-altitude grasslands are characterized by chill mists and low, spongy vegetation spotted with sharp grasses and shrubs.
Cotopaxi which means ‘neck of the moon’ rises from a valley about 2,750 meters (9,000 feet) above sea level to a height of 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level.
Surrounding the volcano is Cotopaxi National Park, an ecological sanctuary of 36,000 hectares (88,920 acres), especially attractive for nature lovers, with the treeless vegetation of the Andean moorlands or paramo. The paramo ecosystem occurs only in the tropical Andes of Colombia and Peru, at elevations above the tree line, between the temperate montane valleys and the snows of the highest peaks.
The surrounding Valley of Volcanoes is a picturesque patchwork of colourful farmland, painstakingly cultivated by the local communities. Colorful Indian markets take place very day of the week in different towns of the area, where all kinds of wares and produce can be found. Staying overnight at one of the old Haciendas of the area is a must.
Attractions in Cotopaxi National Park
Travel along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, among breathtaking landscapes, enjoy the warmth of the people of the colder regions staying overnight at Colonial Haciendas of the area, visit Indian markets and explore the surroundings on foot, horseback or bike.
Ride the rails aboard the exclusive Chiva Express through ever-changing scenery in close contact with the Andean indigenous cultures in a relaxed and fun way to travel.
Activities in Cotopaxi National Park
It is possible to hike, trek, mountain bike and horse ride in the Cotopaxi National Park and throughout the Avenue of Volcanoes.
Other activities include riding the Chiva Express, visiting Indian Markets of Latacunga, Pujili & Saquisili, walking around the beautiful Quilotoa Crater Lake and staying in the Cotopaxi haciendas.
Relaxing
Relax at comfortable country inns or haciendas with wonderful views of the Andes.
Getting Around
Drive on the PanAmerican Highway, two hours south of Quito.
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