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Cotopaxi National Park
National Park

Cotopaxi National Park

Ecuador
4.7
(1,200 reviews)
187
Tours Available
$10
Adult Entry
4-6 hours
Recommended Duration
June-September
Best Time

Overview

Cotopaxi National Park is a stunning protected area in the Andes Mountains, centered around the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. It offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities.

The park is a critical conservation area and a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Nature Reserve Hiking Wildlife Watching

Location

Address

Ticatilin

Neighborhood: Andes Mountains

Coordinates

-0.682000, -78.623100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$10
Children
$5

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Clear skies and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
2 hours
Recommended
4-6 hours
Full Experience
2-3 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

  • • Wildflowers
  • • Clear skies

summer

Warm and dry

  • • Clear views of the volcano

autumn

Cool and dry

  • • Falling leaves
  • • Cooler temperatures

winter

Cold and rainy

  • • Snow-capped peaks
  • • Cozy lodges

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Acclimate to altitude
  • Bring warm layers
  • Hire a guide for hikes

What to Bring

essential

Water Sun protection Hiking boots

recommended

Camera Binoculars Snacks

seasonal

Rain jacket Warm hat Gloves

not allowed

Drone without permit Open fires

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high

  • • Altitude sickness
  • • Hydration

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

US Dollars (USD)

Typical Costs

entry $10
parking $5
guided tour $50
rental equipment $20

Dress Code

Layered clothing for changing weather, Hiking boots, sun hat, Sturdy hiking boots, Inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

  • • 1-2 months
  • • Official park website or local tour operators
  • • 48 hours
  • • Available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Cotopaxi National Park Guide

Size: 40 MB

Features: Map, Trail info, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mariscal Sucre International Airport

Distance: 85 km

Travel Time: 2 hours

Taxi
$70 2 hours
Public transport
$10 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 30 km

Bus
$3 1 hour
Taxi
$30 45 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Proximity to nature and cultural significance

Historical Significance: Home to indigenous communities and historical expeditions

Insider Tips

  • Best views from Limpiopungo Lake
  • Local guides offer unique insights

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local cuisine at nearby towns
  • • Visit the Limpiopungo Lake

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola
thank_you Gracias
where_is ¿Dónde está?
how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?
beautiful Hermoso
ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, Quechua

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Limboyo Lake

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Reflections of the volcano

#Cotopaxi #Ecuador #Nature

Park Entrance

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Low angle

Result: Grand entrance view

#Adventure #Travel

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas
prohibited areas Protected wildlife zones
flash photography Allowed in most areas
commercial photography Permit required
drone policy Permit required
tripod policy Allowed with permit
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Latacunga

Distance: 30 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Town

Quilotoa Loop

Distance: 100 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Trekking route

Reviews

4.7

Based on 1,200 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Hire a guide"
  • "Bring warm layers"
  • "Visit early"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (6)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

187

Rating

4.7 / 5.0

Reviews

1,200

Adult Entry

$10

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