Cotopaxi, Ecuador: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Cotopaxi, Ecuador? If you're planning to go to Cotopaxi, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Based on the climate and weather in Cotopaxi, Ecuador, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Cotopaxi, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Cotopaxi, Ecuador by month

January

In January, Cotopaxi is cool. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Cotopaxi, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Cotopaxi is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

In March, Cotopaxi can be chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Cotopaxi, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Cotopaxi is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Cotopaxi is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Cotopaxi during June, you may notice that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Cotopaxi during August, you might see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Cotopaxi is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) to high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

In October, Cotopaxi is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Cotopaxi, with several of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Cotopaxi is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Cotopaxi is chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cotopaxi. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

If you visit the Cotopaxi Museum and Visitor Center, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Cotopaxi, Ecuador

Cotopaxi, Ecuador is a standout amongst the most prominent tourist destinations in the country. With its rich culture, astonishing history, geological wonders, and stunning views, Cotopaxi has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cotopaxi that shouldn’t be missed.

1. Cotopaxi National Park

The Cotopaxi National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the country, situated at the eastern range of the Andes. It is home to the Cotopaxi Volcano, one of the most popular and mesmerizing attractions in Cotopaxi. This active volcano is the highest volcano in the country, rising up to 5,897 meters above sea level. The Park is an ideal location for hiking and offers trails for both experienced and novice hikers. You can also enjoy horseback riding, bird watching, mountain biking, or simply taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

2. Limpiopungo Lagoon

Limpiopungo Lagoon is an unquestionable must-visit attraction in Cotopaxi that offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a stunning lagoon. The lagoon is located in the Cotopaxi National Park, and you can enjoy hiking to explore it. The lagoon is home to various waterfowl, such as ducks and gulls.

3. Quilotoa Lake

Quilotoa is a stunning lake located in the Ecuadorian Andes, some 3,800 meters above sea level. It is a beautiful place to visit, particularly for its unique color, which changes from green to blue to turquoise throughout the day. The surrounding hills offer fantastic hiking opportunities, and you can enjoy various activities like horseback riding, kayaking, or simply enjoying the views.

4. Cotopaxi Volcano

Cotopaxi Volcano is the highest active volcano in the country, and it's a significant tourist attraction in Cotopaxi. You can climb up to the volcano's summit if you are an experienced climber or hire a guide. The climb can be challenging, but the breathtaking view from the mountain top is an experience of a lifetime.

5. La Casa de la Hacienda

La Casa de la Hacienda is a historic house situated at the north-western foothills of the Cotopaxi volcano. It was built in the eighteenth century and currently functions as a luxury hotel. The house is an excellent example of the traditional architecture of the region, and you can experience the unique history of the region by exploring this stunning building.

6. Saquisilí Market

The Saquisilí market is located some miles south of the Cotopaxi National Park. It is one of the most colorful and vibrant markets in the country. You can find various local goods and products, such as textiles, vegetables, fruits, and handicrafts. It is an excellent place to experience traditional Ecuadorian culture and shop for locally sourced goods.

In conclusion, Cotopaxi, Ecuador is a beautiful destination that offers an experience of a lifetime to its visitors. From lovely nature parks to charming villages, from stunning lakes to ancient architecture, Cotopaxi has a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history. Any visitor to this region is sure to be enchanted by the unparalleled beauty of this South American gem.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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