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Corazón Volcano
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Corazón Volcano is an extinct stratovolcano located in the Western Cordillera of the Ecuadorian Andes, about 30 kilometers southwest of Quito. Rising to an elevation of 4790 meters, it derives its name from its heart-like shape, which is clearly visible from certain perspectives, particularly from the northeast. Geologically, Corazón has been dormant for approximately 12,000 years, making it a stable destination for hikers and mountain enthusiasts. The mountain is primarily composed of andesite and dacite rock, featuring a heavily eroded caldera shaped by wind and precipitation over centuries. The volcano's slopes are blanketed in expansive páramo grasslands, with remnants of ancient Polylepis forests found at lower altitudes. Historically, the area is significant due to the presence of pre-Columbian ruins on its lower flanks, which are believed to have served ceremonial purposes. Corazón is widely regarded as one of the best peaks for altitude acclimatization in Ecuador because the climb is non-technical yet physically rewarding. From its summit, climbers can enjoy a sweeping panorama of the Avenue of the Volcanoes, with clear views of the Illiniza twins and the snow-capped Cotopaxi.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Monumento al Ordeño · El Caballo · Casa del Arte
- Nearby: Saquisilí (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 14 | 15 | 15 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 132 | 142 | 169 | 168 | 117 | 63 | 43 | 33 | 41 | 80 | 92 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access is typically via the Machachi region south of Quito, where local gravel roads and dirt farm tracks clearly open up the direct route right to the base of the dormant volcano.
Best season
The best conditions for mountain climbing are mostly found during the drier months between June and September, as well as in December, when the páramo landscape is easily passable.
Terrain & paths
The route begins with steep grasslands and transitions in the upper third into loose crags that require light scrambling, but are mostly manageable without special glacier equipment.
What to bring
Good footwear for scree, gloves for the cold rock, and a reliable windbreaker are crucial; a helmet is highly recommended due to potential rockfalls in the upper climbing section.
Parking
Vehicles can often be parked at a modest mountain refuge or near the upper pasture fences of local farms before the trails begin to climb significantly more steeply up the mountain.
Safety
Despite the lower technical difficulty, the considerable altitude remains a serious factor; sudden fog on the rocky ridge can very quickly lead to the dangerous disorientation of hikers.
Time needed
The ascent and return generally take an intensive day of about six to eight hours, comfortably making the mountain an extremely popular acclimatization hike for serious climbers.
Geography
Facts
- Corazón has been inactive since the end of the last ice age.
- The name 'Corazón' translates to 'Heart' in Spanish.
- The climb to the summit typically takes 4 to 6 hours.
- Ruins known as 'Pucaras' are located on the mountain's slopes.
- The mountain is part of the Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve.
- Corazón was first climbed by Edward Whymper in 1880.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Corazón Volcano (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where does the name Corazón come from?
Its name means 'heart' in Spanish, as the mountain has a heart-like shape when viewed from a distance.
Is Corazón an active volcano?
No, it is considered an extinct volcano and no longer poses a risk of eruption.
How high is the summit?
The summit is at 4,790 meters above sea level.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is a popular mountain for hikers looking to acclimatize before attempting higher peaks.
How long does the hike take?
The hike to the summit takes about 5 to 7 hours round trip, depending on your fitness level.
Corazón Volcano: where is it located?
Corazón Volcano is located in Ecuador.
Corazón Volcano: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monumento al Ordeño, El Caballo, Casa del Arte.
Corazón Volcano: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Corazón Volcano: why is it worth visiting?
Corazón Volcano is an extinct stratovolcano located in the Western Cordillera of the Ecuadorian Andes, about 30 kilometers southwest of Quito.
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