Things to do in  Cotopaxi Province

With sweeping plains, rocky mountain trails, and glassy lagoons, Ecuador’s largest and most-visited mainland national park is a spectacular setting for an outdoor adventure. Located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, Cotopaxi National Park is best known for the much-photographed Cotopaxi volcano, one of the world's highest active volcanoes. It’s also a great place to spot native flora and fauna such as Andean condors and hummingbirds.

Quilotoa Lagoon was formed when a now-extinct volcano collapsed and the resulting crater was filled with a startling emerald-green lake, the color resulting from volcanic minerals. Just south of Quito, the village and lagoon of Quilotoa have become a popular day-trip destination, affording spectacular views and photo opportunities.

Tucked in a valley within the Cotopaxi National Park along Ecuador’s famed Avenue of the Volcanoes, Limpiopungo Lagoon is 12,400 feet (3,800 meters) above sea level. With the right light, this stunning body of water is a turquoise-colored mirror reflecting the beauty of the surrounding peaks.