Quilotoa Loop
Photo: Eric Schmuttenmaer, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The Quilotoa Loop is a challenging 3-to-5-day hike in Ecuador that takes you through high Andean villages and past Laguna Quilotoa, a crater lake surrounded by volcanic peaks. The usual route is walked village-to-village between Sigchos, Isinliví, Chugchilán and Quilotoa, often with short bus connections to and from Latacunga. It can also be partly covered by local transport, including buses, trucks, donkeys or horses.
UnderstandThe Quilotoa Loop, or Quilotoa circuit, is a remote, bumpy, mountainous road and trail network linking several high Andean villages and towns around the city of Latacunga.
PrepareThis is a serious hike, so you will need proper hiking gear including hiking boots and clothes in layers, rain gear, sun protection and plenty of water. Walking poles are a good idea for safety and to protect your knees.
Get inThere are frequent buses from Quito and other cities in the highlands to Latacunga.
WalkThe standard 3-day route is usually walked from Sigchos to Quilotoa via Isinliví and Chugchilán.
Stay safeThere are some stray dogs along the trail. Although there is generally no issue, there is always a risk of aggressive encounters, and you should keep a hefty walking stick with you while you walk.
Go nextFrom Quilotoa, buses and other local transport return to Latacunga, where there are onward buses to Quito and other highland cities. If walking the route in reverse, return from Sigchos to Latacunga.
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Quilotoa Loop" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Eric Schmuttenmaer, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons