Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cotopaxi National Park, located in Ecuador, is one of the country's most visited national parks, covering an area of approximately 82,514 acres. It centers around the Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the world's highest active volcanoes, standing at 19,347 feet. The park offers diverse ecosystems ranging from Andean forests to páramo (high-altitude grasslands), providing habitat for unique wildlife such as Andean condors and spectacled bears. The park's history is steeped in the geological activity that has shaped its landscape, with Cotopaxi itself having an extensive eruptive history. Recreation opportunities abound including hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching. The main attractions are the challenging trek to the volcano's refuge and the chance to explore the Limpiopungo Lagoon. Cotopaxi National Park is a prime destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty in the high Andes.
