Everything you need to know about Quilotoa Loop
Only a 4-hour drive from Quito is one of the most stunning destinations in Ecuador: the Quilotoa Crater. Formed nearly a thousand years ago following the collapse of a volcano, this crater offers [...]
Wander
Quilotoa
Quilotoa
Some 3,800 metres above sea level, this ancient route from the Panamericana highway deep into the hinterlands of Cotopaxi province takes in indigenous communities and markets, a stunning 3km-wide turquoise lake, and beautiful volcanic scenery along an inspiring hike. It’s a windswept, peaceful experience that encourages you to connect with nature amid spectacular landscapes.
What to do in Quilotoa
- Trek the entire Quilotoa Loop over three to four days, staying in local hostels or camping
- Hike the rim of the lake in around six hours
- Descend to the water’s edge to camp and kayak
- Invest in beautiful Andean art from the Tigua painting community
- See the lake from a stunning lookout point in the Shalalá community
Eating and drinking
In the chilly highlands it’s all about hearty soups, cheesy corn-on-the cob and broad beans grilled by locals. You might even find a guinea pig or two. The less adventurous can tuck into llapingachos, moreish sweet potato cakes that are famous in the region, and fried pork fritadas.
Top tip
Quilotoa is windy – seriously windy. So bring a decent jacket and, if you have long hair, something to tie your locks back with. The bluster calms in the Shalalá community, a lovely lakeside place to visit, a gentle 20-minute hike away – perfect for a morning or day trip if you don’t want to hike the whole circuit. You won’t find any mobile phone reception and Wi-Fi is rare – make sure you’ve got all your communications in order before your visit.
