Sierra Nevada Expeditions

Ecuador is a wildly diverse country, and thanks to its compact size, there are a ton of things of things to do in Ecuador, and they can be experienced in very short period. Adventurers will enjoy opportunities to mountain bike and climb snow-capped volcanoes in a Ecuador climbing tour, while those seeking a more relaxing experience can cruise around the Galapagos Islands, or go shopping in Otavalo Market, South America’s largest.

Top 5 Things to do in Ecuador

• Cruise the Galapagos Islands

• Explore the Amazon jungle

• Visit Cotopaxi National Park

• Ecuador Climbing Tours

• Explore Quito

Recognized as Ecuador’s top most mainland ecological reserve, the Cotopaxi national park is ranked 2nd in terms of annual visitors. Spanning a massive stretch of around 33,400 hectares, the Cotopaxi national park boasts one of the most picturesque volcanoes of the continent, the eponymous Cotopaxi volcano, along with two other gigantic peaks. 

Adding to its charm is the vast flourishing Paramo – a high treeless plateau in tropical South America – perfect for gentle hikes past grazing animals. Ask any travel expert to weave this into your Ecuadorian itinerary; you won’t be disappointed. Here are some insights about Cotopaxi national park – a true marvel of nature – which might prove useful to you if you are planning a Cotopaxi national park tour with family or friends.

Cotopaxi Volcano:

Rising up out of the plains to a gigantic height of 5,897mtrs, Cotopaxi volcano is the second highest mountain in Ecuador, and often considered the most photogenic of all its fellow volcanoes. Translated as the neck of the moon in the local Quechan dialect when the full moon is directly over the top, the effect is that of a head with a sloping neck), Cotopaxi is a perfectly symmetrical cone covered by a thick blanket of snow which captivates its climbers with its heart-stirring views. 
Historically, all this sheer beauty has masked a hidden beast. Very much an active volcano even today, there is no denying Cotopaxi’s potentially deadly destructive ability. The first major eruption occurred reportedly in the year 1534 which disrupted the battle between the Spanish and the Incas; since then there have been 10 eruptions, the last major burst occurred in 1904. In August 2015, Cotopaxi rumbled once again, sending out a thin plume of gas and ash. The activity has subsided since then (no major blow-out occurred), but the locals and volcanologists are alert and watchful.

Flora and Fauna of Cotopaxi National Park:

The majority of the park is covered by widespread grasslands and the Paramo, and this is where the wildlife action happens. Cotopaxi houses commendable populations of wild, free-roaming species of deer, rabbits, Andean foxes and the endemic marsupial mouse. You can witness llamas grazing the fields and wild horses galloping across the vast terrain. It is also home to the elusive puma and the endangered Spectacled Bear.

What to Do in Cotopaxi National Park?

Cotopaxi national park is famous for different things and activities to do by visitors. Some of which are:

- Horse riding
- Limpiopungo
- Biking
- Day Trip
- Climbing the Cotopaxi Summit
- Camping etc

What to Pack for Cotopaxi National Park Tour?

Cotopaxi national park can get quite cold especially early in the morning and at late night. You still need proper clothing if you are only hiking to the shelter. Here is the list of essentials to bring to a trip to Cotopaxi national park no matter if you are staying the night or hiking to the shelter.

- Jacket
- Hiking Shoes
- Hydration backpack
- Sunscreen
- Polarized sunglasses
- Beanie
- Waterproof gloves etc.

So, when you are going to Cotopaxi national park for a holiday trip; do follow this guide to have a beautiful and memorable tour.

Trekking Ecuador is becoming an increasingly popular activity. Walking in nature with nothing but a backpack is a wonderful experience which is also good for your health. It does not matter whether you prefer hiking for a few hours, a day or doing multiple-day treks, Ecuador makes for the perfect place to go, and here is why:

Trekking Ecuador has some of the world’s Best Trails

Ecuador is a country famous, in addition to the Galapagos Islands, for its numerous volcanoes. All of the routes are extraordinarily well maintained, and you will most likely not discover any trash along the trails of trekking Ecuador at all, unlike many trails in other countries. There are trails for newcomers, who want a casual walk while enjoying the scenery, to hard multiple-day treks that require decent equipment and a guide with mules as well as porters.

The amazing diversity of landscapes

Where ever you go, none of the trails will feel and look the same. Starting from active volcanoes to blue turquoise lakes and seemingly endless valleys to the Amazon rainforest covered in clouds, it can be argued that no country is as miscellaneous as Ecuador. Get amazed with the rapidly changing surroundings of Ecuador!

Trekking is a Great Experience!

When you are trekking Ecuador, you will most likely be so focused on the beauty around you that you totally forget that your body is working very hard. Unlike running on a treadmill where you are in the same sweaty room for your whole exercise, trekking in nature feels much lighter. Added advantage points for hiking or trekking at altitude include burning even more calories, due to thinner air as well as less oxygen, as you are making your body work even harder.

Want to hire Sierra Nevada Expeditions for trekking Ecuador? Visit our official website and book us now at an affordable price!

Tel : +593 2-2 553 658
WhatsApp : 593 0992073941
Email : info@sierranevada.ec fredrami@hotmail.com