Sincholagua

Sincholagua is an extinct volcano located in the Eastern Cordillera of the Ecuadorian Andes, approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Quito. Standing at 4893 meters, it is a prominent feature on the northern horizon of the Cotopaxi National Park, although it receives fewer visitors than its more famous neighbors. The mountain is distinguished by its rugged, jagged rocky ridges, which are the result of intense glacial erosion over millennia. Historically, Sincholagua was covered by permanent snow and ice, but today its glaciers have almost entirely vanished due to rising temperatures. Geologically, the volcano is older than the nearby Cotopaxi and represents an earlier stage of volcanic formation in the region. It serves as the primary source for the Pita River, which is crucial for the water supply of the surrounding valleys and creates several spectacular waterfalls. The high-altitude páramo around Sincholagua is a protected habitat for the Andean condor and wild horses that roam the expansive grasslands. For climbers, Sincholagua has a technical challenge involving steep rock scrambles and loose terrain, rewarded by unparalleled views of the Cotopaxi crater and the Antisana volcano.

Nearby cities

Quito

The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.

Cayambe

An agricultural city at the foot of the mighty Cayambe volcano, known for its flowers and cheeses.

Archidona

Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.

Sangolquí

A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.

Saquisilí

Saquisilí is an authentic Andean town famous for hosting one of the most vibrant and expansive indigenous markets in Ecuador every Thursday.

History & landmarks

Cross of Ilaló

A monumental iron cross on the extinct Ilaló volcano, illuminated at night and visible from the Tumbaco and Los Chillos valleys.

Mariscal Sucre Airport

The most modern international airport in Ecuador, located on the Tababela plateau outside Quito.

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Basilica of the Virgin of El Quinche

A monumental Catholic sanctuary where the miraculous wooden statue of the patron saint of Ecuador is venerated.

Cyclist Monument

A stylized sculpture at a busy intersection in Quito, dedicated to eco-friendly transportation.

Atahualpa Olympic Stadium

The traditional sports stadium in the heart of Quito, which witnessed historical triumphs of the Ecuadorian national football team.

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Unasur Building

A futuristic building near the equator, constructed to be the headquarters of the Union of South American Nations.

La Mariscal Artisanal Market

A vibrant market in Quito where local artisans sell colorful textiles, jewelry, and traditional souvenirs.

Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium

This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.

More places

Pronaca Meat Processing

One of Ecuador's largest food producers, focusing on poultry and pork processing.

La Favorita Logistics Center

The main distribution center of Ecuador's largest supermarket chain, coordinating the supply for the entire country.

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Guayllabamba Zoo

The largest zoo in the country near Quito, presenting a large variety of native and exotic animals.

Pasochoa

An extinct volcano with a collapsed caldera that harbors a beautifully preserved Andean cloud forest.

Capilla del Hombre

A monumental art complex in Quito, designed by the artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, dedicated to Latin American history.

Santuario de Guápulo

One of the oldest churches in Ecuador, built in the picturesque neighborhood of Guápulo on the hillside of Quito.

Cochasquí

An archaeological park featuring pyramids and burial mounds of the pre-Inca Quitu-Cara culture.

Rumicucho Pucará

An Inca fortress near the equator that served as a military and ceremonial checkpoint.