The Enchanting Waters of Cuicocha
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cuicocha, a stunning crater lake in Ecuador, surrounded by lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Cuicocha, a breathtaking crater lake nestled in the Andes of Ecuador, offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable hiking experiences amidst its scenic beauty.
A brief summary to Cuicocha
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Local tips
- Dress in layers; the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities around the lake.
- Consider visiting during the early morning for the best views and fewer crowds.
- Check local weather reports before your trip, as rain can affect visibility.
- Respect the local wildlife and stay on marked trails to preserve the natural habitat.
Getting There
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Car
From Mindo Cloud Forest, take the highway E28 towards Quito. After approximately 1 hour, you will reach the town of Otavalo. Continue on E28 for another 30 minutes until you see signs for Cuicocha. Turn onto the road leading to Cuicocha Lake. Follow the road until you reach the entrance of the Cuicocha National Park. There is a small fee of approximately $2-5 per person for entry.
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Public Transportation
To reach Cuicocha from Mindo Cloud Forest using public transportation, first, take a bus from Mindo to Quito. Buses leave frequently from Mindo's main bus terminal. The journey takes about 2 hours, costing around $2. Once in Quito, transfer to a bus heading to Otavalo. This ride will take about 1.5 hours and costs approximately $2. Upon arriving in Otavalo, look for a bus heading to Cuicocha. The final leg to Cuicocha will take about 30 minutes and may cost around $1. Altogether, expect to spend roughly $5-6 and around 4-5 hours of travel time.
Discover more about Cuicocha
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hacienda San Isidro de Iltaqui
4.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage of Hacienda San Isidro de Iltaqui, a premier dude ranch in the heart of Cotacachi, Ecuador.
La Mirage Garden Hotel And Spa
8.8 km
Discover tranquility and luxury at La Mirage Garden Hotel And Spa in Cotacachi, Ecuador, a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.
Historia del Rock y Metal Imbabureño
8.9 km
Immerse yourself in Imbabura's rock and metal history at this cultural association, celebrating local music and community spirit.
Hoppy Alpaca Hostel
9.9 km
Discover comfort and local brews at Hoppy Alpaca Hostel in Cotacachi, Ecuador - a perfect blend of hospitality and adventure.
Las Palmeras Inn
10.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Las Palmeras Inn, a serene hotel in Otavalo, Ecuador, offering stunning views and easy access to local culture.
Antigua Fabrica San Pedro
11.2 km
Explore the vibrant textile heritage of Otavalo at Antigua Fabrica San Pedro, a museum showcasing Ecuador's rich cultural art.
Tourexpress & Transfers
11.7 km
Experience seamless travel in Otavalo with Tourexpress & Transfers, your trusted partner for reliable transportation services in Ecuador.
La Posada del Quinde
12.1 km
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TravelArtWay
12.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Otavalo while enjoying the comfort and hospitality of TravelArtWay.
Coordenadas Inmueble
12.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Otavalo at Coordenadas Inmueble, your cozy retreat amid Ecuador's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
La Cosecha Coffee & Bakery
12.4 km
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Balcon De Imbabura
12.4 km
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Cava Sierra
12.4 km
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The Traveler Hostel
12.5 km
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Senderos Del Molino
12.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cuicocha Lake
0.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Cuicocha Lake in Ecuador, a stunning volcanic caldera perfect for hiking, kayaking, and immersing in nature's tranquility.
Cuicocha Lagoon Day Tour
0.9 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Cuicocha Lagoon, a volcanic wonder in the heart of Ecuador's Andes.
Laguna Cuicocha
1.1 km
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San Miguel de Moraspungo
3.5 km
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Catedral La Matriz de Cotacachi
9.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual essence of Catedral La Matriz de Cotacachi, a must-visit cultural landmark in Ecuador.
Parque Central de Cotacachi.
9.5 km
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Iglesia Católica San José de Quichinche
9.7 km
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SAN JOSE DE QUICHINCHE
9.8 km
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Mercado De Frutas Y Legumbres Otavalo
12.0 km
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Volcán Imbabura
12.3 km
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Otavalo
12.3 km
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Otavalo Park
12.3 km
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Peguche
12.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage of Peguche, a stunning park near Otavalo, Ecuador, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Plaza de Ponchos
12.5 km
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Hacienda Pinsaqui
12.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante "El Leñador"
9.2 km
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El Meson de Pedro
9.4 km
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Solid Rock Restaurante
9.4 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Solid Rock Restaurante in Cotacachi - where every meal tells a story.
Garnish Otavalo
11.2 km
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Chupate La Pata
11.9 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Chupate La Pata in Otavalo - where every dish tells a story.
La Casa de Mamá
12.0 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at La Casa de Mamá in Otavalo—where every dish tells a story.
Cafe Pachamama
12.1 km
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Brissa Marisqueria Otavalo
12.3 km
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CHIMICHANGA RESTAURANTE &TEQUILA
12.3 km
Savor authentic Mexican dishes at Chimichanga Restaurante & Tequila in Otavalo - A vibrant culinary experience awaits!
mi viejo cafe restaurante - juan carlos aulestia - miviejocafebr@hotmail.com
12.3 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Mi Viejo Café Restaurante in Otavalo – where every dish tells a story.
Parrilladas Tío Jessy
12.3 km
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Como En Casa Restaurant
12.3 km
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kabu resto-bar
12.3 km
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Restaurant mi vieja havana
12.4 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian flavors at Restaurant mi vieja havana in Otavalo—where tradition meets taste.
Restaurante La Palma
12.4 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Restaurante La Palma in Otavalo - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Koi Desserts
9.4 km
Discover the sweet delights of Koi Desserts in Cotacachi, where artisanal treats and homemade gelato await your taste buds.
CASA TOISAN
9.6 km
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Sacha Instrumentos Andinos Otavalo
12.0 km
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Fábrica de sombreros HOREB
12.0 km
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EL MUNDO DE NAOMI
12.1 km
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Mercado Municipal 24 De Mayo
12.1 km
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ecuafibras otavalo
12.3 km
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Artesanías Males
12.3 km
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Peguches'art
12.4 km
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Shungo Importadora Textil
12.4 km
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Etnia & Tricolana
12.4 km
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Artesanias Mayumi
12.5 km
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NATIVE TEXTIL
12.5 km
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Nelly Joyas De Plata Y Piedras
12.5 km
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Artesanias Otavalo
12.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cheers Restaurant and Bar
9.6 km
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Chivos Bar El callejón 24/7...
12.3 km
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KARLAS LICOR BAR
12.3 km
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Bar Restaurant Spicy
12.3 km
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ShotUp
12.3 km
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A&T POOL BAR KARAOKE
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at A&T Pool Bar Karaoke in Otavalo, where music, fun, and relaxation blend for an unforgettable evening.
Bîgotte Bistro & Lounge
12.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and welcoming ambiance at Bîgotte Bistro & Lounge in the heart of Otavalo, Ecuador.
Ninkasi brewery, Cerveza Artesanal
12.5 km
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The Red Pub Otavalo
12.5 km
Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of The Red Pub Otavalo, where delicious food and refreshing drinks await every visitor.
CRYPTOBEER
12.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and craft beer selection at CRYPTOBEER, the must-visit bar in Otavalo for tourists seeking local flavor.
Shungo Bar Restaurante
12.5 km
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Terrapalma Bar - Restaurant
12.5 km
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Dublin Irish pub Otavalo
12.5 km
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Muyu Beer Garden
12.6 km
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Sisa Restaurante Café Arte
12.6 km
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