Cotopaxi is a stratovolcano in the Andes, located about 75 kilometres south of Quito. It is the heart of the Parque Nacional Cotopaxi and it is the second highest volcano in the country, after Chimborazo. It has one of the few equatorial glaciers in the world, which starts at the height of 5,000 metres. The mountain is clearly visible on the skyline from Quito. Cotopaxi is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. The park spreads out over 33,393 hectares around the volcano and there are some amazing hiking trails to follow. The wildlife is interesting but you'll probably only get to see the deer and rabbit, there are Andean spectacled bear, foxes, pumas and Andean condors within the farther reaches of the park though. The altitude can be a problem for hikers so make sure you are properly acclimatized before going to the park.