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Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake: A Window to Andean Majesty

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Quilotoa crater lagoon, a mesmerizing emerald-green lake nestled in the Andes.

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The Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake offers stunning panoramic views of the Quilotoa crater lagoon, a mesmerizing emerald-green lake formed within a collapsed volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. It's a must-see for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into the region's volcanic past.

A brief summary to Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake

  • 532R+WCQ, Chugchilán, EC

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for calm waters and better visibility of the lake.
  • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan on hiking the trails around the lake.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and changing colors of the lake.
  • Check local weather conditions before visiting, as they can change rapidly.
  • Consider staying overnight in nearby communities to fully experience the area.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quito, take a bus to Latacunga from the Quitumbe bus terminal, which costs $2.50 - $5 USD and takes about 1-2 hours. From Latacunga, catch a bus to Quilotoa, with services departing a few times a day, for around $2-5 USD. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, buses from Latacunga to Zumbahua are available for $2 USD, followed by a local bus or pickup truck to Quilotoa for approximately $5-8 USD. The viewpoint is located near the entrance to the Quilotoa village. The entrance fee to the Quilotoa area is $2 USD per person, which includes parking.

  • Car

    If driving from Quito, the journey to Quilotoa is approximately 178 kilometers and takes around 3-4 hours. Take the Pan-American Highway south to Latacunga, then follow the road to Quilotoa. Ample parking is available near the lake. The entrance fee to the Quilotoa area is $2 USD per person, which includes parking.

  • Walking

    If you are in Chugchilan, you can walk to Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake. Start from the center of Chugchilan and head northwest to reach the viewpoint.

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Discover more about Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake

Located high in the Ecuadorian Andes, the Viewpoint Quilotoa Lake provides an unforgettable panorama of Laguna Quilotoa, a stunning crater lake formed by a collapsed volcano. The lake's mesmerizing turquoise waters, a result of dissolved minerals, create a surreal landscape that captivates visitors from around the globe. From the viewpoint, you can witness the ever-changing hues of the lake as the sun moves across the sky, offering a spectacular backdrop for your travels. The surrounding rugged Andean landscape adds to the dramatic scenery, making it a haven for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can hike down to the lake's edge or explore the surrounding trails that lead to charming local villages. The Quilotoa Loop, a popular hiking route, connects several indigenous communities, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of the local people. Along the way, you can find artisan markets where you can purchase handmade crafts and textiles, supporting the local economy. The Quilotoa volcano erupted about 800 years ago, leading to its collapse and the formation of the caldera that now holds the lake. The lake is roughly 3 kilometers wide, and the crater walls reach 400 meters in height from the surface of the lake to the viewpoint area. The lake itself is approximately 240 meters deep.

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