Volcano Cotopaxi
One of the highest active volcanoes in the world, almost 5,900 m, rising about 50 km south of Quito. Its glaciers are the core of the danger: an eruption melts them into lahars, which in 1877 travelled more than 100 km. Eruptions in 2015 and 2022-23 dusted the surrounding valleys with ash.
Last eruption
Erupted since 2000
Summit
Stratovolcano · Andesite / Basaltic Andesite
Activity
0 events (1.0x rate)
Interactive Volcano & Seismicity Map
Seismicity within 50 km radius, active VAAC ash plumes, and tectonic plate boundaries.
Recent seismicity within 50 km
0 events in the last 12 h within 25 km of the crater.
| Time | Magnitude | Epicenter / Place | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3h ago | M3.8 | ECUADOR (QUI) | 30 km |
| 39d ago | M2.8 | ECUADOR (QUI) | 12 km |
| 75d ago | M2.9 | ECUADOR (QUI) | 45 km |
Geological & Tectonic Profile
StratovolcanoCotopaxi is an active Stratovolcano formed in an active Subduction zone / Continental crust (> 25 km). Dominant lithology: Andesite / Basaltic Andesite.
Volcano Dossier
VN #352050Official catalogue parameters, coordinates, elevation and geotectonic classification.
Authoritative Monitoring Infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Verified scientific, operational, and emergency protocols
Catalogue: Smithsonian Institution, Global Volcanism Program.Smithsonian GVP profile