Quito Travel Forum

Hello,

Is it worth going to this park if hiking is not to be done? I'm traveling with my parents who are in their 60s (yes, young enough to hike but...) who prefer easy strolls than strenous exercise.

If it still is, would you recommend a full day or half a day to soak in the beauty of the place?

Thanks much!
Raymond

Even if you just go to the car park on Cotopaxi the view is amazing. If the altitude isn't bothering you or your parents you can walk up to the refugio in a half hour fast or an hour if you are stopping to catch your breath every five paces. Course the view is dependant on weather being good and your best chances for clear views are in the morning - earlier is better. I would say a half day will cover you if you won't be walking too much more than the car park and maybe the refugio. If you do get to the refugio they have a few snacks and beers, etc available but I might consider at least having your own water. Get any south or northbound bus on the highway and ask to be let off for Cotopaxi NP then walk about a block up the gravel road where you will find a 4x4 taxi service that will take you to the car park on the volcano. The drive in has nice views and there is a restaurant about half way up the road if you want to stop for lunch or something on your way out. Easy stuff.

Scott

If your parents are not much into hiking, it will be a pretty hard stroll to the refuge because of the altitude and the gravel path (2 steps foreward - 1 backwards), but it is really worth it when the weather is good. There are also some trails / walkable roads in the lower area of the NP with views up to Cotopaxi and other volcanos, i.e. near Laguna de Limpios, so that might be a better idea. For a rough map see http://www.cotopaxi.info/karte.htm.