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Cotopaxi Volcano
Natural Wonder

Cotopaxi Volcano

Ecuador
4.7
(850 reviews)
31
Tours Available
$10
Adult Entry
4 hours
Recommended Duration
June-August
Best Time

Overview

Cotopaxi Volcano is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, standing at 5,897 meters (19,347 feet) above sea level. It is part of the Andes Mountains and is located in the Cotopaxi National Park.

Cotopaxi is significant for its geological activity, stunning landscapes, and as a part of the Ecuadorian Andes. It is a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation.

Volcano National Park

Location

Address

Cotopaxi

Neighborhood: Andes Mountains

Coordinates

-0.676900, -78.623900

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-August

Best Time of Day

Early morning

clear skies, fewer clouds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
2 hours
Recommended
4 hours
Full Experience
overnight trek

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

  • • wildflowers
  • • clear skies

summer

dry

  • • clear views of the crater

autumn

cool

  • • fall colors
  • • clear skies

winter

cold

  • • snow-capped peaks

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book a guide
  • Check weather conditions
  • Bring appropriate gear

What to Bring

essential

hiking boots warm clothing water

recommended

camera sunscreen sunglasses

seasonal

rain gear crampons

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: high

  • • altitude sickness
  • • cold temperatures

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $10
guide $50
food $15
souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, layered clothing, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

  • • 1 month
  • • official website
  • • 48 hours
  • • available

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 Guide

Size: 40 MB

Features: Map, Weather updates, Guide booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mariscal Sucre International Airport

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 2 hours

taxi
$80 2 hours
public_transport
$15 2.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 30 km

bus
$5 1 hour
taxi
$40 45 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning landscapes and outdoor activities

Historical Significance: Important for indigenous cultures and geological studies

Insider Tips

  • Best views at sunrise
  • Local guides know the best trails

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local food in Latacunga
  • • Ask for guide Carlos

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

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Near the crater

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Breathtaking views

#adventure #nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints
prohibited areas restricted zones
flash photography not allowed
commercial photography permit needed
drone policy prohibited
tripod policy allowed
selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Limpiopungo Lake

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Lake

Quilotoa Loop

Distance: 50km

Walking: N/A

Type: Hiking Trail

Reviews

4.7

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book a guide"
  • "Visit early"
  • "Bring warm clothes"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (11)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

31

Rating

4.7 / 5.0

Reviews

850

Adult Entry

$10

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