Your Complete Guide to Cotopaxi, Ecuador’s Iconic Active Volcano

Cotopaxi is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, rising an impressive 5,897 meters (19,347 ft) above sea level. Located in the heart of Ecuador’s Andes, towering over the famous Avenue of Volcanoes, it’s not only dramatic to look at, its perfect snow-capped cone dominates the landscape, captivating the view of Quito. For many travelers arriving in Ecuador via Quito, Cotopaxi is one of the first and most unforgettable sights.

Imagine crisp mountain air, volcanic soil crunching beneath your boots, and wild horses grazing across vast páramo plains, that’s Cotopaxi. It’s not only breathtaking, but also one of the easiest-to-reach high-altitude volcano experiences on the planet, just a couple of hours from Quito. It’s a dream location for birdwatchers, photographers, hikers, and anyone looking to experience Ecuador’s raw mountain landscape up close.

Whether you plan to visit Cotopaxi after your Galápagos tour or kick off your Ecuador adventure here, this majestic volcano offers a powerful dose of Andean magic.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Cotopaxi so special, and everything you should know before visiting.

What Does “Cotopaxi” Mean?

The name “Cotopaxi” comes from indigenous Quichua roots and is often translated as “Neck of the Moon.” Some say it refers to the shape of the crater, while others note that on the right night, the moon appears to rest perfectly on its snow-capped summit, creating a truly magical sight.

For local Kichwa communities and other ancestral peoples of the region, Cotopaxi is more than just a mountain. It has long been revered as a sacred peak, a powerful presence watching over the land. When you Stand in its shadow, and it’s easy to understand. 

Is Cotopaxi an Active Volcano?

Yes, and that’s part of the thrill.

And yes, that’s part of the thrill. Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, with its most recent eruptions occurring in 2015–2016 and 2022–2023, mostly producing ash plumes and moderate activity. Since then, it has remained mostly calm.

The volcano is closely monitored by local authorities, ensuring that visitors can explore Cotopaxi National Park safely. Real-time updates on volcanic activity are available, so you can add this experience to your visit with confidence.

This means you can experience the excitement of standing on an active volcano while enjoying all the safety measures in place, a truly unique adventure in Ecuador’s Andes

What to Do in Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park offers an incredible mix of high-altitude beauty and adventurous activities. Here’s what a day in Cotopaxi with Galakiwi could look like:

🚗 Scenic Drive from Quito
A spectacular 2-hour drive through Ecuador’s highlands brings you to the foot of the volcano. On a clear day, enjoy sweeping views of the Andes and nearby peaks — a perfect introduction to the park’s dramatic landscapes.

🏛️ Visit the Park Museum
Start with a visit to the park’s museum to learn about the local flora, fauna, geology, and history. It’s a great way to understand the wild beauty surrounding you before venturing into the park.

🏞️ Hike Around Limpiopungo Lagoon
This serene lagoon at the base of Cotopaxi is ideal for an easy hike and wildlife spotting. At nearly 4,000 meters, even a flat walk gives you a taste of high-altitude adventure!

🐴 Horseback Riding Experience
Add a horseback ride at our Hacienda on the park’s outskirts. Ride “chagra” style with traditional chaps and ponchos, exploring the mountains on well-trained horses. Enjoy stunning views as the páramo vegetation meets snow-capped peaks, and for the adventurous, there are chances to gallop across the valleys!

🥾 Hike to the Refuge (4,800m)
For mountain lovers, the 90-minute hike to the José Rivas Refuge is unforgettable. The altitude is real, so take it slow and soak in the surreal landscape. Once at the refuge, warm up with hot coca tea or chocolate, snap photos, and marvel at the breathtaking views. This isn’t technical mountaineering, but it feels like standing on top of the world.

Explore all the activities available in Cotopaxi and other mainland experiences on our Mainland Adventure options, or get in touch and let’s craft the day you’ve been dreaming of!

What to Wear in Cotopaxi

Dressing for Cotopaxi is all about layers. Weather in the high Andes can change quickly, sunny one minute, misty the next. Temperatures vary with altitude: during the day, they typically range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). However, wind chill at higher elevations can make it feel much colder, and near the snow-capped cone, temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F).

Here’s what to pack for a comfortable and safe visit:

• Base layers: Thermal shirts and leggings to keep warm.
• Mid-layer: Fleece or down jacket for insulation.
• Outer layer: Waterproof windbreaker or rain jacket to block wind and rain.
• Hiking pants and comfortable clothing for walking around.
• Warm hat and gloves to protect against the cold at higher altitudes.
• Sturdy hiking boots: Waterproof boots are recommended if you plan to hike.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: Even in cold weather, the sun is strong near the equator.

Dressing in layers allows you to adapt as the weather changes, keeping your Cotopaxi adventure comfortable, and enjoyable.

Wildlife in Cotopaxi

Despite its high altitude, Cotopaxi is teeming with wildlife. The open páramo grasslands and volcanic slopes are home to a variety of unique Andean species, offering unforgettable encounters for keen observers.

Keep an eye out for:

• Wild horses, descendants of colonial-era breeds roaming freely across the plains.
• Andean foxes,  elusive and fascinating, often spotted in the early morning or evening.
• Llamas, part of the landscape, grazing across the plains surrounding the volcano.
• White-tailed deer, graceful and occasionally spotted in open areas.
• Spectacled bears, rare but protected, these Andean bears are a special sight for very lucky visitors.
• Birdlife, caracaras, Andean gulls, and, if you’re extremely fortunate, the majestic Andean condor.
  

Limpiopungo Lagoon is a particularly rewarding spot for birdwatching. Bring binoculars or a camera to capture the moment, but remember, wildlife can surprise you anywhere in the park, so keep your eyes open!

Why Explore Cotopaxi with Galakiwi

With Galakiwi, visiting Cotopaxi is more than just a stop, it’s an immersive experience. We combine stunning landscapes, local insight, and light adventure to help you truly connect with Ecuador’s volcanic heart. Whether you’re planning a day trip or extending your mainland journey, we make your time at Cotopaxi smooth, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Private transport, expert guides, and carefully planned routes ensure you get the most out of your visit. Cotopaxi offers a chance to experience the Andes up close, to breathe crisp mountain air and take in dramatic highland landscapes. Discover our Ecuador tours and add Cotopaxi to your adventure, or let’s create a custom experience just for you!