Explore the Tranquil Beauty of Laguna Cuicocha
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake in the Andes of Ecuador, perfect for hiking, boating, and nature lovers.
Laguna Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake nestled in the Andes of Ecuador, offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and adventure opportunities for every traveler. Whether you choose to hike the scenic trails or simply relax by the water's edge, this gem promises a memorable experience amidst nature's splendor.
A brief summary to Laguna Cuicocha
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Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore the trails around the lake.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water, as there are beautiful spots perfect for a relaxing meal.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are stunning at any time of day!
- Check the weather before your visit, as it can be unpredictable in the Andes.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Otavalo, take the E28 road south towards Cotacachi. Continue on E28 for approximately 20 kilometers until you reach the sign for Laguna Cuicocha. Turn left onto the road marked for Laguna Cuicocha, which will lead you directly to the parking area at the lake. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions. Ensure you have cash on hand as there may be a small entrance fee for parking.
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Public Transportation
From Otavalo, head to the main bus terminal and look for buses heading to Cotacachi. The fare is usually around $1.00 and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Once in Cotacachi, you can catch a taxi or a local bus to Laguna Cuicocha. Taxis are widely available and should cost around $10-15 for the ride. Alternatively, you can ask the bus driver if they pass by Laguna Cuicocha as some local buses may stop there.
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Hiking
For the more adventurous, consider hiking from Cotacachi to Laguna Cuicocha. Start at the town square in Cotacachi and follow the signs leading to the lake. The hike is approximately 12 kilometers and will take 3-4 hours depending on your pace. Make sure to bring water, snacks, and wear appropriate hiking gear.
Discover more about Laguna Cuicocha
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hacienda San Isidro de Iltaqui
5.7 km
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La Mirage Garden Hotel And Spa
10.4 km
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Historia del Rock y Metal Imbabureño
10.4 km
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Hoppy Alpaca Hostel
11.5 km
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Las Palmeras Inn
11.6 km
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Antigua Fabrica San Pedro
12.6 km
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Tourexpress & Transfers
13.1 km
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La Posada del Quinde
13.4 km
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TravelArtWay
13.6 km
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Otavalo Park
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Coordenadas Inmueble
13.6 km
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Balcon De Imbabura
13.7 km
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Cava Sierra
13.7 km
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La Cosecha Coffee & Bakery
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Senderos Del Molino
13.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cuicocha Lake
1.6 km
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San Miguel de Moraspungo
4.1 km
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Catedral La Matriz de Cotacachi
11.1 km
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Parque Central de Cotacachi.
11.1 km
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Volcán Imbabura
13.6 km
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Otavalo
13.6 km
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Peguche
13.6 km
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Iglesia Católica San Luis de Otavalo
13.8 km
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Simón Bolívar Park
13.9 km
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Hacienda Pinsaqui
14.1 km
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Waterfall Taxopamba
14.2 km
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San Sebastián Park
14.3 km
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El Colibrí
14.3 km
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Otavalo sign
14.4 km
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Artesanía El Gran Cóndor
14.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante "El Leñador"
10.8 km
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El Meson de Pedro
11.0 km
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Solid Rock Restaurante
11.0 km
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Garnish Otavalo
12.6 km
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Chupate La Pata
13.3 km
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La Casa de Mamá
13.4 km
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Cafe Pachamama
13.4 km
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Parrilladas Tío Jessy
13.5 km
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CHIMICHANGA RESTAURANTE &TEQUILA
13.6 km
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Brissa Marisqueria Otavalo
13.6 km
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Restaurante La Palma
13.6 km
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mi viejo cafe restaurante - juan carlos aulestia - miviejocafebr@hotmail.com
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kabu resto-bar
13.6 km
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Como En Casa Restaurant
13.6 km
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Restaurant mi vieja havana
13.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Koi Desserts
11.0 km
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CASA TOISAN
11.1 km
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Sacha Instrumentos Andinos Otavalo
13.3 km
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Fábrica de sombreros HOREB
13.3 km
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EL MUNDO DE NAOMI
13.4 km
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Mercado Municipal 24 De Mayo
13.4 km
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ecuafibras otavalo
13.6 km
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Artesanías Males
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Peguches'art
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Shungo Importadora Textil
13.7 km
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Etnia & Tricolana
13.7 km
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Artesanias Mayumi
13.8 km
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Nelly Joyas De Plata Y Piedras
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NATIVE TEXTIL
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Artesanias Otavalo
13.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cheers Restaurant and Bar
11.2 km
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Chivos Bar El callejón 24/7...
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ShotUp
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Bar Restaurant Spicy
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Bîgotte Bistro & Lounge
13.8 km
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The Red Pub Otavalo
13.8 km
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Ninkasi brewery, Cerveza Artesanal
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Shungo Bar Restaurante
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CRYPTOBEER
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Terrapalma Bar - Restaurant
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A&T POOL BAR KARAOKE
13.8 km
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Muyu Beer Garden
13.8 km
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Dublin Irish pub Otavalo
13.9 km
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Sisa Restaurante Café Arte
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