Quilotoa Loop

Quilotoa Loop -thre day trek

Quilotoa Lake is a stunning volcanic crater lake located in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador. Situated within the Quilotoa Caldera, it is part of the Cotopaxi National Park and is approximately 3 kilometers (1.86 miles) in diameter. The lake’s elevation is around 3,914 meters (12,841 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest lakes in Ecuador.

The formation of Quilotoa Lake dates back to about 800 years ago when the volcano collapsed, creating the caldera that filled with water over time, forming the lake we see today. The volcano is still considered active, although it hasn’t erupted for centuries.

One of the most striking features of Quilotoa Lake is its mesmerizing turquoise color, which is due to dissolved minerals in the water. This, combined with the rugged Andean landscape surrounding the lake, makes it a popular destination for hikers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts.

One of the highlights of visiting Quilotoa Lake is the opportunity to hike around its rim. The Quilotoa Loop is a popular multi-day trekking route that takes adventurers through remote indigenous villages, breathtaking landscapes, and, of course, around the rim of the crater itself. The trek offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, providing ample opportunities for photography and immersion in nature.

For those seeking more adventure, it’s also possible to hike down to the shores of the lake itself. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the hike back up can be strenuous due to the high altitude, steep terrain, and thin air.

The three-day trek from Sigchos to Insilví and then on to Quilotoa offers adventurers a remarkable journey through some of Ecuador’s most stunning landscapes. Here’s a description of the trek and the landscapes you might encounter each day:

Day 1: Sigchos to Insilví The trek begins in Sigchos, a charming village nestled in the Andean highlands. As you set off, you’ll traverse rolling hills and verdant valleys dotted with traditional adobe houses and cultivated fields. The landscape is characterized by lush greenery, with occasional patches of forest providing shade along the way. You’ll pass through small rural communities where locals may greet you with warm smiles and curious glances.

As you ascend higher into the mountains, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with panoramic views of towering peaks and deep valleys stretching out before you. The air is crisp and invigorating, and the sound of rushing streams and chirping birds fills the air. Eventually, you’ll reach Insilví, a picturesque village perched on a mountainside, where you can rest for the night and soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Day 2: Insilví to Quilotoa The second day of the trek takes you deeper into the heart of the Andes as you make your way towards the spectacular Quilotoa crater lake. The trail winds its way through rugged terrain, with rocky outcrops and towering cliffs looming overhead. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote indigenous communities where traditional ways of life have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

As you approach Quilotoa, the landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, with the rugged peaks giving way to sweeping vistas of the caldera below. The air is tinged with the scent of sulfur, a reminder of the volcano’s dormant presence. Finally, you’ll arrive at the rim of Quilotoa Lake, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the turquoise waters below and the surrounding crater walls rising majestically on all sides.

Day 3: Exploring Quilotoa On the third day, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the stunning Quilotoa crater lake and its surroundings at your leisure. You can hike down to the shores of the lake, where you can rent a kayak or simply take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape. Alternatively, you can choose to hike along the crater rim, soaking in the panoramic views and marveling at the sheer magnitude of the natural wonder before you.

Need more help? contact us: