Explore the Tranquil Beauty of El Lago Santa Elena
Discover the serene hiking paradise of El Lago Santa Elena in Monteverde, Ecuador, where vibrant nature meets tranquil waters for an unforgettable experience.
El Lago Santa Elena is a serene hiking area nestled in Monteverde, Ecuador. This picturesque destination offers breathtaking views, lush landscapes, and a chance to connect with nature, making it an ideal spot for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility.
A brief summary to El lago Santa Elena
- W7P9+WXR San Patricio, Monteverde, EC
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chances to see wildlife and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails comfortably.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as rain can change trail accessibility.
- Consider bringing a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start your journey from the city of Santa Elena. Head southeast on the E20 highway towards Monteverde. Continue for approximately 30 kilometers until you reach the intersection with the road leading to Monteverde. Turn right onto the road towards Monteverde and follow the signs. After about 15 kilometers, you will arrive at the entrance to El lago Santa Elena, which is located near San Patricio.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Santa Elena to Monteverde. Buses depart regularly from the main terminal in Santa Elena. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs around $2. Once you arrive in Monteverde, you can take a taxi or a local shuttle service to El lago Santa Elena. The taxi ride from Monteverde to the lake will take approximately 30 minutes and will cost about $10-$15.
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Walking or Hiking
If you are feeling adventurous and are already in the Monteverde area, you can hike to El lago Santa Elena. From the center of Monteverde, follow the marked trails that lead to the lake. The hike is approximately 5 kilometers and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your pace. Ensure you have proper hiking shoes and bring water, as the trails can be steep and challenging.
Discover more about El lago Santa Elena
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Royal Decameron Punta Centinela
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Comuna Atravezado, Libertador Bolívar, Cantón Santa Elena.
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Santa Elena Peninsula
23.8 km
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Museo Los Amantes de Sumpa
24.4 km
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Hotel Boutique El Taino De Sky
26.0 km
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Montañita Estates Hotel & Villas
26.2 km
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Selina Montañita
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Pipaparaiso
26.4 km
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Pueblo Montubio de Santa Elena
26.4 km
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Lost Beach Club
26.4 km
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TIKI LIMBO
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Caña Grill
26.4 km
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Casa I Love Montañita Town
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NATIVA BAMBU Ecolodge
26.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
San Pablo beach
9.2 km
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Playa de Punta Blanca
12.0 km
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Point Barandua
14.2 km
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Tablazo, nueva jerusalen
21.8 km
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Mirador Resort "Cerro El Tablazo"
22.1 km
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Parque Barrio 16 De Julio
22.7 km
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Monumento a los mochileros
22.8 km
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Madre Park
23.6 km
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Manglaralto Park
23.7 km
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Nueva Montañita Ecological Park
24.9 km
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Bromelia Retreat and Healing Center
25.2 km
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Playa Montañita
25.9 km
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Parasailing montañita ECUADOR
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Montanita Main Park
26.2 km
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Montañita
26.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Cova Food & More
15.3 km
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Cevicheria ELENITA
19.3 km
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Hostería Farallon Dillon
21.0 km
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La Esquina de Alex cadeate
21.5 km
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Frente parque
22.6 km
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Arte y Sabor D' EK
22.8 km
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PATIO DE COMIDAS DE SANTA ELENA
22.9 km
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El Reino de los Secos
23.0 km
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Santa Elena
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Comedor
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Parrillada Restaurante Shasskia
23.2 km
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Food House Comida Colombiana
23.2 km
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El Autenténtico "Restaurante de buena cocina"
23.2 km
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Chuchurranga Santa Elena
23.3 km
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Restaurante chef Lobster
23.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Paradise market
14.3 km
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Ciudadela La UNE
22.0 km
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TIENDA "MAMILITA"
22.4 km
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Market "Santa Isabel"
22.4 km
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Industria MUSA (Fabrica De Muebles)
22.5 km
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MARVANE FASHION ROPA AMERICANA AL MEJOR PRECIO
22.6 km
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Regional Santa Elena
22.8 km
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C.C. Terminal De Santa Elena
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Terminal Terrestre De Santa Elena Patio De Comidas
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Municipal Market of Santa Elena
22.8 km
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TUTI Santa Elena
23.0 km
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Mini Tienda S.E precios bajos
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Tía Santa Elena
23.1 km
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ALGO BONITO
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Nueva Santa Elena
23.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante on the beach
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my bar on the beach
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JOART LOUNGE BAR
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Bar cocteles
10.1 km
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Aquí Abajo - Drink Cóctel
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Bar Karoake NIGHT BLUE
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3 Mas Y Nos Vamos Cocteles
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The Carajillo
22.5 km
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Bar Condorito
22.5 km
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Mambo Cafe Bar Karaoke
22.7 km
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Samalú
22.7 km
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Market La Cabaña
22.9 km
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Bar Zona Cero
22.9 km
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Pool's Bar Karaoke
23.0 km
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Discoteca Karaoke BLUE SKYY
23.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
BAR DISCOTECA LA KAPITAL
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Zona Rosa De Libertad.
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Santo Cielo Montañita
26.3 km
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NATIVA BAMBU DISCO BAR
26.3 km
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Alcatras
26.4 km
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ABAD LUX DISCOTECA
26.4 km
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Mojito Rumba
26.4 km
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Hot Beach Club
26.4 km
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Poco Loco Beach Club Bar
26.4 km
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SPACE BEACH CLUB
26.5 km
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M2 RETRO DISCOTECH
29.1 km
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Oasis Beach Club
30.1 km
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SUNSET BEACH CLUB
30.5 km
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Favela Disco Club
30.6 km
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Salinas Beach Club
31.2 km
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