Visit Cotopaxi
- Mountain
- Nature, Adventure & Sport
- Volcano
Cotopaxi: How to get there?
100 kilometres southeast of Quito by bus
Cotopaxi: See when to go?
All year round
Cotopaxi: For how long?
1 to 2 days
Learn more about your destination
Ecuador
Cotopaxi Holidays
In the middle of the volcano chain and 5,897 metres high, Cotopaxi is Ecuador's second highest volcano after Chimborazo. It forms part of the national park of the same name.
Cotopaxi: What to see nearby?
What our travellers think of their stay
Cotopaxi, approach to the roof of the Andes... A white mushroom with a peak that pierces the clouds, is how I describe the view from the plane when leaving Ecuador.
My suggestion
It will all depend on your fitness level, as Cotopaxi is a staggering 5,897m high. If you're planning to climb it during your holiday in Eucador, you'll need to be well prepared.
In the middle of the volcano chain and 5,897 metres high, Cotopaxi is Ecuador's second highest volcano after Chimborazo. It forms part of the national park of the same name.
My suggestion
If you are going higher than the first refuge make sure you don't go alone! You need to be well-equipped and with a guide. In brief, the climb is meant for sports fanatics and thrill seekers!
Cotopaxi Volcano stands at the heart of the Cordillera Oriental mountain range, dominating the national park established here in order to preserve and protect this unique area.
My suggestion
Head through the park to foot of the volcano, either in a mini-van or on foot. Then climb up to the José Rivas refuge, which lies at an altitude of 4,800 metres. The views are simply magnificient!
Walking until the refuge al 4800m above sea level and then around the Limpiopungo lagoon was an extraordinary experience!
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