Parque La Carolina
Quito's expansive urban oasis, offering a vibrant mix of sports, recreation, art, and nature for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for activities
Parque La Carolina
Best Time
Fewer crowds, perfect for activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Quito's expansive urban oasis, offering a vibrant mix of sports, recreation, art, and nature for all ages.
"A vast oasis in the heart of Quito, offering a delightful blend of nature and activities."
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander through the park's paths, admire sculptures, and enjoy the open green spaces. Great for a relaxed day out.
🚴♀️ Bike & Play
Rent a bike or use the sports fields for a fun, active experience. Plenty of space for everyone!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Airplane Monument
Near the main entrance
A unique landmark offering a touch of aviation history amidst the greenery. A must-see photo spot!
Boating Lake
Central area of the park
Rent a paddleboat and enjoy a leisurely time on the water, a favorite for families and couples.
Sculpture Garden
Scattered throughout the park
Discover whimsical and artistic sculptures that add character and charm to your park exploration.
Botanical Garden
Within Parque La Carolina
A serene escape showcasing diverse flora, especially magical during the evening 'Bosque de Luz' events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Heart of Quito
Budget-Friendly Fun Awaits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander through the park's paths, admire sculptures, and enjoy the open green spaces. Great for a relaxed day out.
🚴♀️ Bike & Play
Rent a bike or use the sports fields for a fun, active experience. Plenty of space for everyone!
🛶 Boat on the Lake
Enjoy a paddleboat ride on the park's lake for a charming and scenic experience.
💡 Visit the Botanical Garden
Explore diverse plant life and don't miss the enchanting 'Bosque de Luz' evening light show.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll & Explore
Wander through the park's paths, admire sculptures, and enjoy the open green spaces. Great for a relaxed day out.
🚴♀️ Bike & Play
Rent a bike or use the sports fields for a fun, active experience. Plenty of space for everyone!
🛶 Boat on the Lake
Enjoy a paddleboat ride on the park's lake for a charming and scenic experience.
💡 Visit the Botanical Garden
Explore diverse plant life and don't miss the enchanting 'Bosque de Luz' evening light show.
🥤 Grab a Refreshing Drink
Beat the heat with a slushie or a unique drink from one of the park's many kiosks.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture memories with the airplane monument, sculptures, and the beautiful natural scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parque La Carolina is widely praised as Quito's vibrant 'Central Park,' offering a vast, well-maintained green space with diverse recreational facilities. Visitors appreciate the variety of activities, from sports fields and playgrounds to boating and artistic sculptures, making it a beloved spot for locals and a pleasant discovery for tourists. While generally safe and enjoyable, some note it's more of a local hangout than a primary tourist destination.
"It’s Quito’s Central Park😎😎😎, a very large green space of very well manicured lawns.
It’s a very well designed urban park of a multi-use model: walking/jogging and bike paths, football field, children’s playgrounds, large open areas suitable for group activities or cultural/entertainment events.
Perhaps a more notable features of the park are the sculptures scattered throughout the park. There’s even one of a dog to mark the designated fenced dog play area. And ahhh … there’s a plane😎"
A V (globetrotter)
"Great park to go for a stroll during daytime. Has a few attractions within including museums!"
Ramon Laya
"Parque La Carolina is a vast oasis in the heart of Quito, offering a diverse range of attractions. From children's parks and a BMX park to open gyms and tennis fields, the park caters to various interests. The presence of a lake, running field, and even an American football field adds to its recreational charm. The airplane monument is a unique touch, and the sight of police on horses enhances the sense of security. I thoroughly enjoyed my time there—whether strolling, exercising, or sipping on a refreshing juice from one of the kiosks. A must-visit for a delightful blend of nature and activities in the heart of the city."
Nikos P.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parque La Carolina is located in the north of Quito and is easily accessible by taxi, ride-sharing apps, or local buses. Many visitors find it convenient to use Google Maps for navigation. +1
Yes, Parque La Carolina is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours. Like any urban park, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings. Police presence, including officers on horseback, can be observed, adding to the sense of security. +1
The park is vast, so walking is a great way to explore. For longer distances or a more active experience, consider renting a bike or using the designated bike paths.
While specific parking details can vary, street parking is often available around the park's perimeter. Ride-sharing services are also a popular and convenient option for reaching the park.
Absolutely! Quito has an extensive bus system, and many routes pass by or near Parque La Carolina, making it an affordable way to reach the park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The general entry to Parque La Carolina is free, allowing you to enjoy its vast green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths without any cost.
Entry to the Botanical Garden typically costs around $5 for adults and $2.50 for children. Special evening events like 'Bosque de Luz' may have separate pricing.
Yes, activities like renting a paddleboat on the lake usually incur a small fee, often around $5.90 for a session.
It's generally recommended to check the Botanical Garden's official website or social media for any advance booking requirements, especially for special events like the 'Bosque de Luz'.
Yes, many attractions are free, including exploring the sculptures, using the sports fields, playgrounds, and enjoying the open lawns.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the airplane monument, a boating lake, numerous sculptures, playgrounds, sports fields (soccer, basketball, BMX), and the Botanical Garden.
The park boasts a wide array of sports facilities, including soccer fields, basketball courts, a BMX track, and even an American football field.
Yes, there are several well-maintained playgrounds suitable for children of various ages, making it a great family destination.
While there might not be official rental stations within the park, many visitors bring their own bikes or rent them from nearby shops for a cycling tour.
The 'Bosque de Luz' is a magical nighttime experience at the Botanical Garden featuring lights, music, and color, creating a festive atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find numerous kiosks and small stands selling snacks, juices, and refreshing drinks like slushies.
Expect to find local treats like cachapas, slushies with various flavors, and other quick snacks perfect for a park outing. +1
The area surrounding Parque La Carolina has a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries catering to different tastes and budgets.
Absolutely! The park's expansive lawns are perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food or grab snacks from the park's vendors.
Look for local vendors selling items like cachapas for around $2 or slushies for a refreshing and budget-friendly treat. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The airplane monument, the boating lake, the various sculptures, and the lush greenery offer fantastic photo opportunities. The Botanical Garden at night is also stunning. +1
Yes, with its well-maintained lawns, trees, and the lake, Parque La Carolina provides a beautiful natural backdrop for photography.
The airplane monument is a distinctive landmark. The 'Bosque de Luz' event in the Botanical Garden offers a magical, illuminated setting for unique night shots.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful lighting. For vibrant colors, consider visiting when the park is bustling with activity.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances or park rules before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Botanical Garden for a calmer, educational experience, or simply let the kids enjoy the vast open grassy areas for picnics and games. The park's size means there's plenty of space for everyone to enjoy themselves without feeling too crowded, especially on weekdays.
💰 Budget Travelers
You can enjoy a picnic with food bought from local markets or affordable park vendors selling snacks like cachapas and refreshing slushies. Even activities like paddle boating are reasonably priced, making it easy to have a full day of fun without breaking the bank.
🏃♀️ Active & Sporty Visitors
Bring your running shoes or rent a bike to explore the park's extensive network of paths. The open spaces are also perfect for yoga, frisbee, or any other outdoor activity you enjoy. It's a great place to get your workout in while enjoying the city's green lung.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Botanical Garden
During the holiday season and other special occasions, the Botanical Garden transforms into a magical wonderland with the 'Bosque de Luz' (Forest of Light) event. This immersive experience features stunning light installations, music, and vibrant colors, creating an unforgettable nighttime spectacle. It's a highly recommended activity for families and couples looking for a unique evening out.
While the garden itself has an entrance fee, many visitors find it well worth the cost for the beauty and tranquility it offers. It's a great addition to a day spent exploring the wider Parque La Carolina, providing a different kind of natural beauty.
Active Pursuits and Sports
Beyond organized sports, the park offers extensive walking and jogging paths that wind through its green expanses. Many visitors enjoy renting bicycles to explore the park's vast area, taking advantage of the dedicated bike lanes. The open fields are also perfect for impromptu games, yoga sessions, or simply enjoying the fresh air.
For those looking for a more leisurely activity, the boating lake provides an opportunity for paddleboat rentals. It's a charming way to spend an afternoon, offering scenic views of the park from the water. The combination of diverse sports facilities and recreational opportunities makes Parque La Carolina a vibrant center for physical activity in Quito.
Art and Landmarks
A prominent landmark within the park is the airplane monument, a distinctive feature that draws attention and serves as a popular photo spot. Its presence adds a touch of historical intrigue to the otherwise natural setting.
These artistic elements and landmarks transform Parque La Carolina into a dynamic environment, offering cultural enrichment alongside recreational opportunities. They provide talking points and visual delights for visitors of all ages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit