Cotopaxi National Park is a dream destination for hikers and adventure seekers, offering a mix of stunning Andean landscapes, towering volcanoes, and rich biodiversity. With a variety of trails suited for different experience levels, this park is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore Ecuador’s high-altitude wonders.

These are non-technical- but challenging- climbs, giving trekkers in good condition access to high alpine adventure while sleeping in wonderful lodges. While these are high-altitude hikes, they can be done by anyone in good shape. Here’s a look at some of the best hikes in Cotopaxi National Park:

Guagua Pichincha: A Crater with a View

This active volcano, sitting at 15,696 feet, is a great way to kick off your high-altitude hiking experience. The trek begins at the Guagua Pichincha Refuge, winding along the crater’s edge where you can peer down into its steaming geysers. The 5.4-mile round-trip hike offers incredible views of the famous “Avenue of Volcanoes” and serves as a perfect acclimatization hike for those tackling higher peaks.

Pasachoa: A Cloud Forest Adventure

For those who love lush greenery and wildlife, Pasachoa (13,776 feet) is an ideal hike. This 8.5-mile trek takes you through pristine highland cloud forests and paramo grasslands, home to the majestic Andean condor. From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Cotopaxi, Ruminahui, and other surrounding peaks. The descent follows the Pita River canyon, leading to a cozy mountain lodge for a well-earned rest.

Ruminahui: The Heart of the Paramo

Ruminahui (15,189 feet) is named after a legendary Inca general and offers one of the best viewpoints in the park. The 7-mile hike starts at Limpiopungo Lagoon, where Cotopaxi’s reflection on the water is nothing short of breathtaking. The trail takes you through rolling paramo grasslands and past small waterfalls before reaching a rocky scramble to the summit. On a clear day, the sight of Sincholagua, Cotopaxi, and Illiniza Norte makes every step worth it.

Illiniza Norte: A Scrambler’s Delight

At 16,817 feet, Illiniza Norte is the highest non-technical peak in the area. The 10-mile trek begins with a steady ascent to the Illiniza refuge, where hikers take a break before scrambling up rocky ridgelines to the summit. This challenging hike offers jaw-dropping views of Ecuador’s volcanic landscape and is a fantastic choice for those looking to push their limits.

Cotopaxi Snowline: A Taste of the Glacier

The crown jewel of the park, Cotopaxi (19,347 feet), is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. While summiting requires technical skills, hikers can still experience its icy heights by trekking to the snowline. Starting from the parking area at 15,750 feet, it’s a 2-mile climb to the glacier edge at 16,732 feet. From here, you’ll take in an awe-inspiring panorama of the valleys and peaks you’ve conquered over your journey. For those looking for a bigger challenge, summiting Cotopaxi is an option too. However, since its last eruption, it has become more of a technical climb. It’s doable, but you need a basic understanding of mountaineering skills.

Final Thoughts

Cotopaxi National Park is an adventurer’s playground, offering everything from cloud forest hikes to high-altitude scrambles. Whether you’re here for the wildlife, the views, or the thrill of climbing above 16,000 feet, these trails promise an unforgettable experience. So lace up your boots, embrace the altitude, and get ready for some of the best trekking South America has to offer!