Quilotoa Map
(Click on the GPS points to see the photos; use two fingers to move the map)
Get Directions
routes
| Route | Difficulty | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Down to the lagoon: | ||
| South Viewpoint – Lagoon beach | Easy | 1h |
| Lagoon beach – South Viewpoint | Easy | 1 – 2h |
| Around the crater: | ||
| Hike around the crater | Easy | 4 - 5h |
| South Viewpoint – Quilotoa Summit | Easy | 1 – 1.5h |
| South Viewpoint – North Viewpoint | Easy | 2 – 3h |
- Recommendations
Recommendations
- The Quilotoa is the perfect place for the hiking and cycling lovers. This beautiful tourist attraction offers innumerable routes and possibilities for adventure.
- The South Viewpoint is 3882 meters high.
- This viewpoint is the perfect starting point for most hikes in the Quilotoa; especially if you have chosen the approach route on the south side (Zumbahua).
- The descent to the lagoon is very attractive; about 1 hour with beautiful views of the crater outline. There are restrooms and it's possible to camp near the lagoon. They also rent kayaks for as long as you want: 1/2 hour, US 3.00; 1 hour, US 6, schedule from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (sometimes open earlier). The hike up to the viewpoint is somewhat stronger, between 1 and 2 hours, depending on your physical condition. If you wish you can also rent a horse to ride up with the help of a muleteer; the price is US $ 10.00.
- Another hiking route is the circumvallation along the crater edge, it follows a perfectly marked trail that will give you the best views from all the lagoon angles and surrounding valleys and villages. This route goes by multiple ascents and descents and requires a hike between 4 and 5 hours. Advise: go prepared for a rain.
- Between Zumbahua and the Quilotoa, at medium distance, is the Toachi River Canyon viewpoint. Starting from the viewpoint it's possible to follow the path that goes down to the Toachi River.
- Chucchilán also offers numerous hostels to stay the night; from this small town there are some paths that go up to the Quilotoa, others go towards Sigchos or Isinliví. It is advisable to review the maps and get directions with people so as not to get lost. The busiest path is the one that goes up to the Quilotoa crater north viewpoint, although it may require some hours of effort.
- For those who want to go hiking: bring sunscreen, a hat and enough fluids to hydrate.
