Cotopaxi National Park - How-to Guide

A HOW-TO GUIDE OF COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK

The snow-capped peak of the Cotopaxi Volcano is Ecuador’s most recognizable sight. This how-to guide of Cotopaxi National Park will help you visit and enjoy one of South America’s best (and one of my favorite!) natural wonders.

How to get to Cotopaxi National Park:

Option #1: Guided Tour (recommended for day trips)

As you’ll read below, an organized tour is the only worthwhile way to experience Cotopaxi National Park as a day-trip from Quito. Regardless of the type of excursion you choose (hiking, biking, horseback-riding, etc.), day trips to Cotopaxi are all-day. Expect to leave in the early morning at 7AM and return at dinner time. Most tours will cover at least one meal and snacks and also help you navigate the tricky transportation logistics for getting around the park.

Option #2: Public Transportation/Rental Car (recommended for overnight trips)

Both entrances to Cotopaxi National Park are located off the Pan-American Highway. The BLANK entrance is easier for… while the BLANk entrance is better for those staying at one of the park’s haciendas.

If you don’t have a rental car and are traveling south from Quito, take any bus headed that way from the BLANK terminal and inform the driver that you want to get dropped off at the park. There isn’t a terminal at the entrance but there are plenty of signs to the park when you get close. Once you deboard, you’ll have to find separate transportation (a taxi or group van) to the entrance. Walking is not possible! It’s just too far. Once at the entrance to the park, you’ll have to register and you’ll also have the chance to buy refreshments and use the restroom. From there, you’ll need even more transport (to be booked at the information center in the park). Again, the distance between the entrance gate and the main lagoon/trails is just too far to walk. Discuss with your driver how long you plan to stay in the park and…

Things to do in Cotopaxi National Park:

One of the most common activities in Cotopaxi National Park is to hike to the refuge nestled in the face of the Cotopaxi Volcano. The trailhead is located in the parking lot beneath the refuge. Be warned: the climb takes only one hour but it’s steep and on loose gravel. I recommend the switch-back trail that travels left and right (instead of straight) up the mountain. It’s easier on your legs and lungs and also helpful on windy days. Once at the refuge, soak in the stunning park views and head inside to enjoy the comforts of the cafe. Walk 30 minutes beyond the refuge to reach the bottom of the volcano’s glacier.

While not a hike, the walk around Laguna Limpiopungo is a pleasant flat trail that offers views of both the Cotopaxi Volcano and Rumiñahui Volcano. Limpiopungo is located near the base of Cotopaxi and has a small parking area for cars and bikes.

Full-disclosure: I’ve never summitted or even attempted to summit Cotopaxi. But my two friends who have both loved (and were really challenged!) by the experience. Here’s a blog I found helpful when considering my own climb. From what I’ve been told, climbers start late around midnight to walk on the sturdiest ice and climb til summit at sunrise, for quick breath-taking views.

I’ve mountain-biked in Cotopaxi National Park both as a solo traveler (having rented a bike from my hostel) and as part of a tour. I have to say, this was my least favorite way to see the park. The terrain is rocky and rugged, beautiful to look at but challenging for bikers to enjoy. A common biking experience is to start at the parking lot beneath the refuge and bike down and around the park. This “trail” is an actual road, steep, bumpy, and perilously filled with cars. If you’re going to bike, I recommend an outfitter (I biked with…) to help plan a successful route through the park for you. Here’s a blog that’s found more success than me in the biking department at Cotopaxi. Make sure to wear a helmet, if not gloves and a riding goggles.

Even though I’m not an avid equestriannaire, the horseback riding I’ve done in Cotopaxi NP is some of the most spectular I’ve done. Granted, Renting a bike is a lot cheaper and easier than renting a horse. The Hacienda Porvenir has its own ranch in the park, with whom you can book an excursion with. You’ll be outfitted like a true gaucho, with a thick poncho, riding boots, and all. The cost for a one-day horseback riding adventure is…

How much does Cotopaxi National Park cost?

The entrance fee to Cotopaxi National Park is $10.

Upon arrival you’ll need to register yourself with the park office so bring your passport.

Can you stay in Cotopaxi National Park?

Yes! A camping permit costs $5 per night and should be purchased upon entry to the park. There are >5 campsites, weather-depending. I haven’t camped in the park yet but I expect it to be a cold and windy experience. The Boliche National Reserve also comes recommended as a place to camp.

The Hacienda Porvenir does offer shared dormitory style beds. Its site is perfect with unparalled views of Cotopaxi on clear days. They also have a tour office to help you plan park excursions. The place is fireplace cozy and comfortable and perfect to escape from the cold. Given that accommodations in the park are limited, spaces at the Hacienda do sell out, and despite being more expensive than your average Ecuadorian hostel.