The essence of a Cotopaxi National Park visit
After breakfast you will be driven to the south of the country where the Cotopaxi National Park is located.
The snow-capped symmetrical summit of Cotopaxi (shining peak) volcano takes pride of place in Ecuador’s 321 km (200 mi.) long Avenue of Volcanoes. Known as the King of the Andes, it is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, with a summit of 5 897 m (19 700 ft) above sea level. The vast 32 000 hectare (79 073 acre) wilderness of the Cotopaxi National Park surround its foothills, a mix of wild, starkly beautiful moorland, streaked with wispy clouds, and pockets of mist. This region is home to a variety of mammals, birds, and endemic species. There is a choice of graded walks and activities within the park that cater for all abilities.
Afterwards, you will be driven to take the lunch at Tambopaxi Lodge restaurant, where a host of beautiful window-views of the Cotopaxi volcano will accompany your meal.
Surrounded by spectacular snow-capped peaks such as Chimborazo (Ecuador’s highest peak), the city of Riobamba is known as the Sultan of the Andes. With its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, Riobamba’s historic centre is a favourite among visitors, with the buildings and surrounds of the Pedro Vicente Maldonado Park being of particular interest. If you have time, a visit to the Natural Science Museum, and the religious art museum of the Concepción Convent are worthwhile options.
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