Sarmiento Park | Cordoba City

Cerro Cotacachi is a stratovolcano located in the Imbabura Province of Ecuador, north of the city of Cotacachi.

Visual Characteristics

The volcano's summit is a prominent, often snow-capped peak. Its slopes are characterized by steep gradients covered in páramo vegetation, a high-altitude grassland ecosystem. The rock composition is primarily volcanic, with evidence of past lava flows and ash deposits.

Location & Access Logistics

Cerro Cotacachi is situated approximately 10 kilometers north of Cotacachi. Access to the lower slopes is via unpaved roads branching off the main highway connecting Cotacachi to Otavalo. The primary access point for hiking is near the Cuicocha crater lake. Parking is available at designated areas near the trailhead. Public transport to Cotacachi is frequent from Quito and Otavalo; from Cotacachi, local taxis or pre-arranged transport are required to reach the mountain base.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Cerro Cotacachi is a dormant stratovolcano, part of the Cordillera Occidental range of the Andes. Its formation is attributed to volcanic activity dating back several million years. The páramo ecosystem covering its slopes is a result of high altitude and specific climatic conditions, supporting unique flora and fauna adapted to these environments.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking to the summit crater rim is the primary activity. The trail is challenging and requires good physical condition. Observation of the surrounding Andean landscape, including nearby volcanoes and valleys, is possible from higher elevations. Birdwatching for high-altitude species is also a potential activity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic infrastructure is limited. Restrooms are typically found at the Cuicocha crater lake visitor area. Shade is minimal on the upper slopes, with most of the terrain exposed. Cell phone signal is unreliable to non-existent above the lower elevations. Food vendors are generally not present on the mountain itself, but are available in the town of Cotacachi and near Cuicocha.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for hiking is during the dry season, from June to September, when visibility is generally clearer. The best time of day for photography is early morning, before cloud cover typically forms over the peaks. There are no tide requirements.

Facts & Legends

Local indigenous legends associate Cerro Cotacachi with powerful spirits and consider it a sacred mountain. It is said that the mountain's shape resembles a sleeping giant. A specific tip for visitors is to acclimatize to the altitude in Cotacachi or Otavalo for at least one day before attempting the climb.

Nearby Landmarks

• Cuicocha Crater Lake (0.5km West)
• Laguna Mojanda (15km Southeast)
• Otavalo Market (20km East)
• Peguche Waterfall (18km East)
• Cotacachi Leather Market (10km South)