A Quilotoa tour from Quito is one of the most incredible day trips you can take in Ecuador. This breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake is known for its vibrant turquoise waters, stunning panoramic views, and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking down to the lagoon, kayaking, or riding a mule back up, Quilotoa offers an adventure you’ll never forget.
Getting to Quilotoa from Quito
Your journey to Quilotoa Lagoon starts at your accommodation in Quito, where you’ll be picked up by a professional local guide. The drive takes approximately three hours, covering about 120 km. You’ll first merge onto the Panamerican Highway (E35), heading south toward Latacunga before taking the scenic road west through Pujilí and Zumbahua—the last village before reaching the Quilotoa crater lake.
Quilotoa Crater Lake
Quilotoa Lake is the westernmost volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. Inside its crater lies a stunning caldera approximately 2 kilometers in diameter, 250 meters deep, and situated at an altitude of 3,914 meters above sea level.
The lake, also named Quilotoa, was formed within this caldera and is renowned for its breathtaking emerald-green waters. It has been recognized as one of the ten most beautiful lakes in the world, according to an article published by Condé Nast Traveller.
Mule ride back up
Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views as you ride a mule up to the lookout point, passing through steep canyons along the way. This mule ride is a popular choice among visitors, especially given the high elevation, which can make the hike back up quite challenging.
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What is Quilotoa like?
Locals say that Quilotoa Lake can shift between seven mesmerizing shades, ranging from deep green to vibrant blues. This dazzling display becomes even more striking when the sun shines directly on the water, illuminating its ever-changing hues.
Although Quilotoa is considered a dormant volcano, it remains active, with gas continuously escaping from the crater’s center—a subtle reminder of its powerful past. Its last recorded eruption occurred approximately 800 years ago.
How safe is Quilotoa?
Quilotoa is an incredibly safe and peaceful rural town, home to a welcoming community of humble locals. As a small parish, everything is within walking distance, making it easy to explore. The area is best known for its breathtaking lake and the many hiking trails that surround it. Keep in mind that there are no ATMs in the area, so be sure to bring cash.
What does Quilotoa mean?
Quilotoa takes its name from an indigenous princess, with Quiru meaning “tooth” and Toa meaning “princess” in Quichua, the native language. This breathtaking landscape, tucked away in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes, is often referred to as the “Tooth of the Princess”—a name as mystical and enchanting as the lake itself.
When to go to Quilotoa
Quilotoa is a year-round destination, but for the best weather, plan your visit between May and September when sunshine is more frequent. If you’re visiting in October or later, expect cloudier skies and occasional rain. No matter the season, it’s best to start activities like hiking early in the morning for clearer views and a more enjoyable experience.
Exploring Quilotoa Crater Lake
At an altitude of 3,914 meters above sea level, Quilotoa Lake is an ancient caldera lake formed inside the westernmost active volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. Its vibrant turquoise color, which shifts between seven different shades depending on the sunlight, makes it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, as ranked by Condé Nast Traveller.
Hiking into the Quilotoa Crater
A Quilotoa hiking tour is a must for adventure lovers. The descent from the rim to the lagoon takes about 40 minutes, but the hike back up can take over an hour due to the high altitude. Many visitors opt for a mule ride back up to the lookout point, a popular alternative for those affected by the altitude sickness in Quilotoa.
Activities at Quilotoa Lagoon
- Kayaking in Quilotoa: Rent a kayak for 30 minutes and paddle across the calm, mineral-rich waters.
- Photography: Capture the dramatic landscapes of Quilotoa Ecuador photography spots before the clouds roll in.
- Local Cuisine: Try traditional Andean foods such as potatoes, fava beans, oca, mellocos, chochos, and even guinea pig.
When is the Best Time to Visit Quilotoa?
You can enjoy a Quilotoa day trip any time of the year, but the best months to visit Quilotoa with clear skies are May to September. If visiting from October to April, expect a mix of clouds and occasional rain. To get the best views, plan activities like hiking early in the morning before the weather shifts.
Is Quilotoa Safe for Tourists?
Yes! Quilotoa Ecuador travel guide recommendations confirm it’s an extremely safe place in Ecuador. The small village is home to friendly indigenous communities, and everything is within walking distance. Just remember to bring cash, as there are no ATMs around.
Why Take a Quilotoa Tour from Quito?
Booking a Quilotoa tour from Quito with a local guide ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery. Whether you want to explore the Quilotoa hiking trails, experience an exciting mule ride, or simply admire the lake’s stunning beauty, a guided tour takes care of all the logistics.
Plan Your Quilotoa Adventure Today!
Ready for an unforgettable Quilotoa day trip? Let Ecuador’s best tour operator handle the details while you enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. You plan it, we make it possible!
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Hiking Options for Longer Stays
If you want to explore beyond a Quilotoa day trip, there are several incredible hiking options to extend your adventure:
Quilotoa Crater Rim Hike
Hike along the Quilotoa crater lake rim, experiencing stunning panoramic views from various vantage points. This scenic trek takes you through the Shalala community, past lush pine forests, and to the highest point of the crater on the eastern side, offering breathtaking perspectives of the Quilotoa Lagoon.
Quilotoa to Insinliví Hike
For a more immersive experience, embark on a multi-day trek from Quilotoa to Insinliví, a remote Andean village. Stay overnight in Insinliví, interact with the local indigenous communities, and continue your hike the next day to Chucchilan. In Chucchilan, a recommended eco-lodge is Black Sheep Inn, offering cozy accommodations with spectacular mountain views. Unlike Quilotoa, Chucchilan has a milder climate, making it a comfortable stopover.
Visit the Local Cheese Factory & Cloud Forest
Take a tour of the local cheese factory, where you can see traditional cheese-making processes and sample delicious artisan cheeses. Just beyond, explore Ecuador’s highest cloud forest, located near the continental divide, offering a unique ecological experience.
Discover Malqui Machay – The Tomb of Atahualpa
For history enthusiasts, Malqui Machay is a must-visit. Located 30 km from Chucchilan, this archaeological site is believed to be the tomb of Atahualpa, the last Inca Emperor. The site also features a small pyramid built by the French Geodesic Mission as part of the meridian arc measurement.
Explore Sigchos – An Archaeological Treasure
Continue on the road past Chucchilan to reach Sigchos, an area rich in archaeological significance. One of its most notable sites is Churo de Amanta, believed to have been an Inca fortress used in battles against the Spanish. The ruins of Malqui Machay share architectural similarities with this site, making it a fascinating stop for history lovers.
