Quilotoa: Nature's Majestic Crater Lake
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Quilotoa, Ecuador's stunning volcanic crater lake, renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters and rich indigenous culture.
Quilotoa is a stunning volcanic crater lake in Ecuador, renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters and dramatic surrounding landscapes. A paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, this unique destination offers awe-inspiring views and a chance to explore the indigenous culture of the region, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and beauty.
A brief summary to Quilotoa
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Local tips
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day at high altitudes.
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid afternoon clouds and enjoy clear views.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited around the lake.
- Consider visiting during the dry season (June to September) for the best weather conditions.
Getting There
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Car
From Latacunga, head west on the E35 towards Pujilí. Continue on this road for about 25 km until you reach the town of Pujilí. At Pujilí, take a left onto the E28 towards Zumbahua. Drive for approximately 30 km until you arrive in Zumbahua. From Zumbahua, follow the signs to Quilotoa, which is about 12 km away. The road will take you through scenic highland landscapes. Be mindful of the road conditions as they can vary. Parking is available near the crater's edge.
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Public Transportation
Start your journey in Latacunga. You can take a bus from the main terminal to Zumbahua, which costs around $1.50 and takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive in Zumbahua, you can hire a local taxi or take a shared taxi (known as a 'taxi colectivo') to Quilotoa for about $5-10, which will take around 30 minutes. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey with the taxi driver.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour from Latacunga, which often includes transportation to Quilotoa and sometimes meals or guided hikes around the crater. Prices for tours can range from $30 to $80 per person depending on the inclusions. This option is great for those who prefer a hassle-free experience and want to learn more about the area from a local guide.
Discover more about Quilotoa
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Finca El Oriente
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Comunidad Llallachanchi
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Kartódromo Cotopaxi
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Hacienda La Ciénega
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El Reencuentro
34.1 km
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Complejo Recreacional Daryce
34.4 km
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occidental norte
35.6 km
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Cuscungo Cotopaxi - Hostel & Lodge
38.5 km
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Piedra La Chilintosa
39.2 km
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Rondador Cotopaxi
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Recinto El Mirador , Sto Domingo de los Tsachilas
40.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake
0.3 km
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Laguna de Quilotoa
1.0 km
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Laguna Quilotoa
1.5 km
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Quilotoa Lake
1.5 km
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Volcán Quilotoa
1.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Volcán Quilotoa, a stunning crater lake nestled in the Ecuadorian Andes, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Muelle Lago Quilotoa
1.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Muelle Lago Quilotoa, where turquoise waters meet majestic volcanic landscapes in Ecuador's stunning highlands.
La Laguna Quilotoa
1.6 km
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Mirador to Laguna Quilotoa
2.1 km
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Laguna del Quilotoa
2.2 km
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Mirador de Cristal Shalalá
2.8 km
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Mirador Monte Juyende
2.9 km
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Cañon Del Toachi
6.1 km
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Toachi River Canyon
8.9 km
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Galeria del Primer Pintor de Tigua "Julio Toaquiza Tigasi"
12.5 km
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"KUNTUR WASI" Galería de Arte El Cóndor Enamorado"
12.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante Sinchy Tupak
2.2 km
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Restaurante Quilotoa
2.3 km
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Pacha Volkan
2.4 km
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The Spoon Quilotoa
2.4 km
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Shalala Lodge
2.9 km
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EL PASEO DEL INCA " TIERRAVENTURA "
18.5 km
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Olla De Barro
26.8 km
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LA CUYERA
27.8 km
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DELICATESEN RESAURANT SAL Y PIMIENTA - Parador, Restaurantes y venta de Artesanias en Ecuador
32.5 km
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El Chozon de Antonio - La Avelina
32.6 km
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Restaurante Flambé
33.1 km
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Pizzería Buon Giorno
33.5 km
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Pappa, cocina ecuatoriana
34.0 km
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Los Exquisitos Hornados de Riobamba ya en LATACUNGA
34.1 km
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California Express
34.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hosteria Chukirawa
2.2 km
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Hosteria Alpaka Quilotoa
2.4 km
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Runa Wasi Quilotoa
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Poly Gomitas
26.7 km
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Minimarket mis dos angelitos
30.7 km
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COTOPAXI STORE Sucursal
32.6 km
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Cotopaxi Store
33.0 km
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Crepería el Mediodía, Malteria Plaza
33.0 km
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Nik Center
33.5 km
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Motos&Motos
33.6 km
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Pauly's Store Exclusive Clothing & Moda Sin Límites
33.9 km
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InfinityCANDY
33.9 km
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Cafeteria D' Tere con Sabor a Hogar
34.3 km
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Centro de exposición Cotopaxi Vive
34.4 km
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Floranation
34.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hostal Urku Ñan Quilotoa
1.9 km
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Restaurante Kirutwa Mushuc Wasi
2.1 km
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Hostal PrincesaToa
2.2 km
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Hostal Cloud Forest
5.5 km
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Hostal Mama Hilda
5.5 km
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Black Sheep Inn
5.7 km
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Hostal Taita Cristóbal
10.9 km
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ROCK EN CALI
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Zona cero disco bar
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33.2 km
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Hostel Sendero De Volcanes
33.4 km
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White Rabbit Restaurant Bar
33.4 km
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La Casona del Pacho
34.0 km
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Bar Karaoke La Cocha
34.1 km
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