Located within the national-park boundaries, with Cotopaxi looming close by, Tambopaxi is a certified sustainable-tourism project that hires local workers. It's perfectly positioned for hikes, though you could spend all day gazing at the volcano, llamas and wild horses through the windows of the stove-heated main lodge. The restaurant here is open all day; a set lunch costs $17.50.
Dorm rooms have fluffy down comforters and renovated bathrooms, and a luxurious separate structure has private rooms with woodburning stoves; all have outrageous views of Cotopaxi (be sure to set your alarm for sunrise). Activities include highly recommended horseback excursions ($22 for two hours) and guided hikes. The lodge is located about 25km along the main road from the park’s south entrance (and 4km from the north entrance).