The journey begins going south from the city of Quito, or north from the cities of Ambato and Latacunga. Travelling through a road full of impressive landscapes, we get to the entrance of the park, at 3500m (11482 feet) above the sea level. A little handcraft market welcomes us. It is a place full of contrasts where volcanic soil predominates and where the great Cotopaxi rises at 5789m (18992ft)a.s.l. The first part of the road takes us up and down through volcanic formations, with the photogenic Cotopaxi decorating the landscape. It sometimes hides behind the clouds, as if it acted accordingly to the inhabitants’ mood.
The first stop is at an area called Mariscal Sucre, where a 20-30-minute walk takes us to impressive sightseeing spots as we go through South America’s largest pine tree forest and the only one of its kind within the Andean region. A museum found at the entrance of this area gives us some information about the park, its rules and its conservation.
Fifteen minutes going northeast from Mariscal Sucre is found the Limpiopungo Lake, at 3850m (12631ft)a.s.l., reflecting the Rumiñahui (stone face) volcano. Here, the power of Nature can be felt everywhere: the strong, cold wind forces you to make a greater effort to walk while he plays with the golden grass and the transparent waters of the lake; the sun shines even more intensely; the clouds get even closer; and the fauna mostly composed of native bird species seem to enjoy permanently this magical scene. This section of the road splits up into two pathways:
The northwest path will take you –either by foot, horseback or bike– to the peak of the Rumiñahui volcano, found at 4722m (15492ft) above the sea level. From the peak, you are able to see the Cotopaxi volcano. It is, overall, a wonderful experience.
On the other hand, the southeast way is an ascending road surrounded by volcanic landscapes that takes you to the colossal Cotopaxi. Strong winds, low-hanging clouds, light rains and some sunlight are expected throughout this route. On the first stop, found at 4500m (14763ft)a.s.l., cars must be parked and visitors may enjoy a cup of hot chocolate while admiring the beauty of nature. Afterwards, visitors may decide to have a 45-minute walk to the next stop, José F. Ribas, found at 4800m (15748ft)a.s.l. Those with climbing experience can also go up to the white, shiny peak of the Cotopaxi.
The Cotopaxi volcano welcomes visitors from everywhere who want to go back to the world’s origins, to a place where men and nature coexist peacefully. This biologically and culturally outstanding place is waiting for you, enjoy it!
Photo: Gerard Prins
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