El Volcan Cotopaxi (Volcano Cotopaxi)

Present-day Cotopaxi is simply a young volcano which has formed its cone on top of the remaining vestiges of an old volcano, which was gradually eroded by moving glaciers. On its north-western slopes there is a refuge which stands out over the entire valley of Limpiopungo in a volcanic landscape with telltale signs of past eruptions. The climb to the summit requires specialised equipment and, although it is of relatively low difficulty, being accompanied by a guide is strongly recommended. The eastern peaks of the volcano are snow-capped; with snow present a hundred metres lower than on the western side due to the humidity coming from the east.

 

El Ruminahui

From El Boliche the Sunfana road leads to Volcano Ruminahui, whose peak reaches 4,757 metres in height. Caranculated caracaras and occasionally condors can be spotted here in the rocks. It’s also possible to trek from Limpiopungo to the mountain.

 

Laguna de Limpiopungo (Lake of Limpiopungo)

A magnificent photographic panorama of peaks such as Cotopaxi , Sincholagua and Ruminahui. Along the route leading to the lake it’s possible to observe flocks of llamas and other species of mammals, especially rabbits and deer. It’s also possible to observe flora at altitude, which notably changes in ascendancy. The lake is currently at risk of disappearing due to its usage of its sources for irrigation purposes. This has caused the rapid increase of reed-grass covered swamp.

 

Rio Pita (River Pio)

The river here is quite shallow, with a width of only eight metres. With prior authorisation of INEFAN trout fishing can be undertaken here. This species of trout, introduced to these waters over 30 years ago, displaced the prenadilla – the only endemic species of the Andean highlands. Recently, sports such as canoeing have been taken up in rivers such as River Pita.

 

Lagos de Cajas (The Cajas Lakes)

These attractively scenic lakes are located in the south-east of the park, around 3 kilometres from the Mauca-Mudadero control point.

 

Laguna de Santo Domingo (Lake of Santo Domingo)

A picturesque and interesting display of natural beauty. Beside the lake’s spring there are vestiges of square-shaped stone walls probably of Inca origin.

 

Loma Amigrande (Amigrande Hill)

Large quishuar and pumamaqui trees, characteristic of the Ecuadorian Andes, can be found here.

 

Sendero Quisuar (Quishuar Path)

The majority of attractions in the area are accessible along this path, which passes through pine forests.

 

Sector El Boliche

According to the first people to visit, this area resembles a ‘soup terrine’, hence the name ‘El Boliche’. In the surrounding areas several cabins have been constructed, which can be rented should one wish to stay the night.

 

Mirador y Planicie de Sunfana (Viewpoint and Sunfana Plain)

Vast stretches over the Sunfana Plain can be observed here, extending to the foot of the Mirador (viewpoint). It takes around thirty minutes to arrive by foot from the Administrative Centre. Arrival is also possible by car. There is also an ideal place for camping here, and the foot of Volcano Ruminahui is reached after a two hour walk.

 

Area Arqueologica del Rio Pita (Archaeological site of the River Pita)

Remains of colonial and pre-Hispanic dwellings, possibly belonging to shepherds, can be seen close to River Pita. In the same area, there are platforms, terraces and stone precincts, most likely dating back to pre-Colombian times and almost certainly relating to Cotopaxi worshipping rituals.

 

Zona de recreacion (Recreational Zone)

Most of the visitor infrastructure is situated here. The Administrative Centre, a museum and restaurant are located here close to other tourist facilities.

 

Pujili

Every February in the village a ceremony paying homage to the ‘Nino de Isinche’, the ‘Reyes Magos’ and ‘Loas’ takes place in the Hacienda de Isinche Grande. In June there are theatrical folkloric dances, ‘palos ensebados’ (competitions to attempt to climb up grease-covered poles) and popular festivals.

 

San Lorenzo de Tanicuchi

On 10 th August there are evening bullfights, fire displays, dances and plays.

 

Latacunga

The festivities celebrating the Virgin de las Mercedes, as well as church masses and processions, take over the town from 20-26 th September every year. In November the picturesque celebration of the Mama Negra takes place, attracting many tourists. Among the main events taking place during the festivals are pyjama dances, priest dances, clown shows, music shows with traditional songs, fire displays and many traditional attractions such as masquerades and typical bands.

 

Tours

 

Rutas Turisticas (Tourist Routes)

Walking routes currently in operation mainly cover Lake Limpiopungo , La Pampa de Limpois, the