Cotopaxi National Park
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi National Park is a renowned protected area in Ecuador spanning the provinces of Cotopaxi, Napo, and Pichincha. Located about 50 kilometers south of Quito, the park is dominated by the Cotopaxi volcano, an iconic stratovolcano whose name means 'smooth neck of the moon' derived from Quechua and Aymara languages. The park also contains the dormant Rumiñawi volcano to the northwest and the historically significant Sincholagua volcano to the southeast, which last erupted in 1877. Cotopaxi volcano is among the highest active volcanoes globally, with its most recent eruption occurring between August 2015 and January 2016. The park offers diverse volcanic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and mountaineering. Its high-altitude ecosystem includes paramo grasslands and Andean forests, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Tip: The best time to visit Cotopaxi National Park is during the dry season from June to September for clearer skies and safer trekking conditions. Visitors are advised to purchase entrance tickets in advance when possible and to prepare for high-altitude weather changes. Guided tours are recommended for safety and to enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Proper acclimatization is important due to the park's elevation.
Interesting facts
- •Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world.
- •The name 'Cotopaxi' comes from indigenous Quechua and Aymara languages meaning 'smooth neck of the moon'.
- •The park contains three volcanoes: Cotopaxi, Rumiñawi (dormant), and Sincholagua (historically active).
- •Cotopaxi's last eruption lasted from August 2015 to January 2016.
History
Cotopaxi National Park was established to protect the region's unique volcanic and ecological landscapes.
The Cotopaxi volcano has been active for centuries, with documented eruptions dating back to pre-Columbian times.
The last major eruption of the nearby Sincholagua volcano occurred in 1877.
More recently, Cotopaxi erupted between August 2015 and January 2016, reaffirming its status as one of the world's highest active volcanoes.
Over time, the park has become a vital conservation area and a popular destination for scientific study and tourism.
Place Guide
Cotopaxi Volcano
The centerpiece of the park, Cotopaxi is a towering active stratovolcano known for its near-perfect cone shape and snow-capped summit. It offers challenging climbs and breathtaking views from the peak.
Rumiñawi Volcano
A dormant volcano located northwest within the park boundaries, offering scenic hiking trails and volcanic landscapes.
Sincholagua Volcano1877
A historically significant volcano to the southeast of Cotopaxi, with its last major eruption recorded in 1877.
Contact
Phone: (02) 398-7600
