Ecuador’s Most Stunning Crater Lake Awaits Your Next Adventure
- Location: Ilinizas Ecological Reserve, Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador
- Elevation: 3930 m.
- Number of days: 1 D
- Technical level: low
- Physical level: low-medium
Ecuador has plenty of hiking routes for those seeking a non-technical one, or maybe just wanting to enjoy a calm family day. Though there are routes in all of the 4 Ecuadorian regions, you will find the most popular and easy-access ones in the Andean Highlands. Many of them are within protected areas, such us the Ilinizas National Reserve, the Cotacachi-Cayapas National Ecological Reserve, or the Cajas National Park.
Without a doubt, the Quilotoa Lake is one of the Ecuadorian destinations you should include in your itinerary. This beautiful crater-lake is located within the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve, in the Pujuli Canton, Cotopaxi Province. Its green-like colors are due to its volcanic origin and dissolved minerals.
Quilotoa is about 3 hours away from Quito. So if you are lodging in the capital city, and it is not possible for you to spend the night in Quilotoa, you could make a one-day round-trip. The access is relatively easy. You can get there by bus, or car. You will have to pay an estimate of USD $2 for entering the place. In the village, you will find plenty of hostels, restaurants, and shops, where you can find touristic information, guides, souvenirs, traditional food, and more.
Depending on your plans and physical condition, you can chose among various hikes. Some of the most popular are:
· Going around Quilotoa: If you are already acclimatized to the altitude of the Highlands, and have a good physical condition, you can go around the lake, which will take you to its maximum elevation (3930 m.), called the “Monte Juyende”. This physically-demanding route that might take between 3 and 6 hours to complete is definitely worth. You will enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the lake from different perspectives, and get to appreciate how the Quilotoa’s color changes as the day passes. Even though this is a non-technical hike, and is clearly marked so you do not get lost, it is advisable to go accompanied by a group or a guide, especially if it is the first time you visit it. Not only will you feel safer if accompanied, but you will also contribute to the economic development of the village, which highly depends on the revenues coming from tourism.
· Going down to the Quilotoa’s shore: This is one of the preferred options for those visiting Quilotoa. Descending to the lake’s shore might not feel exhausting, but be aware that returning up to the starting point demands having a good physical condition, due to the almost 250 m. from the shore up to the viewpoint. After a 30-to-45 minute walk from the main viewpoint to the shore, there are many activities to chose from: having a walk, renting a small boat or kayak, or staying the night at the camping area. Going back up might take between 1 and 2 hours. If hiking back up turns out to be difficult for you, be it because of the sandy terrain or because you are tired, you can pay the village people for a mule to take you up.
· Shalala viewpoint: Starting from the top viewpoint, It takes about 30 minutes getting to Shalala, where you will have a wonderful panoramic view of Quilotoa. The construction of this viewpoint was financed by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism, and has been a boost for the economic activity of the Shalala community, which inhabits next to Quilotoa. If you are looking for a small hike with a panoramic view of the lake, this is your go-to route.
Please feel free to leave a comment or send an email to info@whataboutecuador.com in case you need recommendations or more information for your next visit to the Quilotoa lake or any other Ecuadorian destination.
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