The extinct volcano Cotacachi lies in the nature reserve “Reserva Ecologica Cotacachi Cayapas” some 65Km north of Quito. The reserve extends from the volcano down to the tropical lowlands on the Rio Cayapas in the east. The volcano Cotacachi (4939m) rises impressively above the lagoon Cuicocha forming a beautiful wild landscape. Its first ascent has been made officially by Whymper and the Carrel brothers, but as the mountain is most time of the year snow free the Inka might have explored it already long before. It is a long and demanding climb up to its top, but if the weather permits an impressive view on the northern Andes including the peaks of Imbabura and Cayambe is the reward!
