Laguna Quilotoa
Laguna Quilotoa: Ecuador's Turquoise Jewel
Quilotoa Lake: Ecuador's Emerald Jewel
Discover Quilotoa Lake, a breathtaking volcanic crater lake in the Andes, offering stunning views, hiking, and cultural experiences.
Quilotoa Lake, a stunning crater lake high in the Ecuadorian Andes, is known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic setting. Formed by a volcanic eruption in 1280 AD, this caldera offers breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to immerse yourself in local indigenous culture.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Quilotoa Lake
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
EC
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Quilotoa Lake
Getting There
Public Transport
Most travelers access Quilotoa Lake via Latacunga. From Latacunga's bus terminal, take a bus to Quilotoa. Buses operated by Cooperativa de Transporte 14 de Octubre depart approximately every three hours and cost $2-4. The journey takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, buses go to Zumbahua, where you can hire a taxi or pickup truck for approximately $5-8 to Quilotoa. Consider confirming the return bus schedule upon arrival in Quilotoa.
Car
Driving to Quilotoa Lake from Quito takes approximately 3-4 hours. Take the Pan-American Highway south to Latacunga, then follow the road towards Pujilí and Zumbahua. The route is paved. From the Quilotoa village, continue 13 kilometers on the paved road to the crater. Parking is available near the lagoon entrance for $2.
Local tips
✓
Acclimatize to the high altitude before undertaking strenuous activities.
✓
Wear layers of clothing as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day.
✓
Bring snacks, water, and sunscreen, as it can be a long day.
✓
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good tread due to the sandy and uneven terrain.
✓
Bring cash, as there are no ATMs in Quilotoa or along the Quilotoa Loop.
Discover more about Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa Lake, cradled high in the Ecuadorian Andes at 3,914 meters (12,841 feet), is a breathtaking testament to nature's power and beauty. This stunning caldera lake, formed by a volcanic eruption around 1280 AD, boasts mesmerizing emerald-green to turquoise waters that shift in color with the changing light and mineral content. The dramatic volcanic landscape and the surrounding páramo ecosystem create a surreal and unforgettable experience for visitors.Beyond its visual allure, Quilotoa holds geological, ecological, and cultural significance. The Quilotoa Ecological Reserve protects the unique páramo ecosystem, which acts as a natural reservoir, capturing rainfall and mist, essential for regional hydrology. The lake is estimated to be up to 250 meters deep, and the crater measures 3km in diameter.The local Kichwa people consider Quilotoa a sacred place, believing it to be home to the gods, adding a layer of spiritual meaning to the landscape. Visitors can explore nearby indigenous villages, experiencing traditional crafts and cuisine. Hiking around the crater rim offers panoramic views, while the descent to the lake shore provides a closer look at this unique landscape. Kayaking on the lake's surface gives an even more thrilling perspective.Whether you're seeking adventure, natural beauty, or cultural immersion, Quilotoa Lake promises an unforgettable journey through Ecuador's captivating landscapes and traditions.
A brief summary to Quilotoa Lake
Use Quilotoa Lake as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Sierra
Experience the awe-inspiring Andean landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant indigenous markets in the Sierra of Ecuador.
Tell me more about Sierra
