Laguna Papallacta Travel Guide

Free Guide: Reflecting Andean beauty: Laguna Papallacta offers serene landscapes, hiking, and a gateway to Ecuador's natural wonders.

Download the Free PDF guide

A brief summary of Laguna Papallacta

Reflecting Andean beauty: Laguna Papallacta offers serene landscapes, hiking, and a gateway to Ecuador's natural wonders.

Laguna Papallacta, a high-altitude lake in the Ecuadorian Andes, offers stunning reflections of the Antisana Volcano and surrounding paramo landscape. Formed by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century, it's now a vital water source for Quito and a tranquil escape for nature lovers.

4.4 Very good · 39 Google reviews

Address: Laguna Papallacta

Getting there

Bus

From Quito, head to the Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe, south of the city. Several bus companies, like Flota Imbabura and Transportes Papallacta, offer frequent trips to Papallacta. A one-way ticket costs around $2 to $3, and the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Inform the driver to drop you off near Laguna Papallacta.

Taxi/Rideshare

Taxis and rideshares (like Uber) are available from Quito. Input 'Laguna Papallacta' as your destination. The trip is about 68 kilometers and takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Confirm the price beforehand; a taxi from Plaza Grande to Laguna Papallacta may cost around $21. A taxi from Papallacta to the airport can cost $40.

Discover more about Laguna Papallacta

Overview

Laguna Papallacta is a serene and scenic lake nestled high in the Ecuadorian Andes, approximately 67 kilometers east of Quito. Situated at 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level, the lagoon's dark, deep waters reflect the majestic Antisana Volcano and the surrounding Andean vegetation, creating a breathtaking panorama.Formed in the 18th century following an eruption of the Antisana Volcano, a lava flow filled the former glacier of the Papallacta River, draining the Tambo River and creating the lagoon. Today, Laguna Papallacta serves as an important source of drinking water for the city of Quito.Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the lake, take in the stunning views, and explore the surrounding paramo ecosystem. Hiking trails wind through the hills, offering opportunities to spot unique flora and fauna. The nearby Termas de Papallacta hot springs provide a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploration. Local vendors often sell traditional Ecuadorian crafts and snacks, offering a taste of the region's rich heritage.Whether you're seeking relaxation, outdoor adventure, or cultural experiences, Laguna Papallacta offers an unforgettable escape into one of Ecuador's most picturesque settings.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from

Google

By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Laguna Papallacta on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Laguna Papallacta, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Laguna Papallacta, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

Unlock the best of Laguna Papallacta

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

See all tours and tickets

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Laguna Papallacta

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

More of the region

Explore more of Southeast Oriente

Experience the untamed beauty and rich cultural heritage of Ecuador's Southeast Oriente, a biodiverse paradise in the heart of the Amazon Basin.

Explore Southeast Oriente

More of the country

Explore more of Ecuador

Explore Ecuador: From the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands to the Pacific coast and Galápagos Islands, discover diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.

Explore Ecuador