Experiences / Ecuador’s Avenue of Volcanoes
Quilotoa Loop Village Trek
Three days between Kichwa villages ending at an emerald crater lake
- Duration
- 3 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Group size
- 2–12
- Minimum age
- 12
- Cancellation
- Flexible
- Meeting point
- Latacunga bus terminal
- Operated by
- Páramo y Glaciar
Overview
The Quilotoa Loop links highland villages through a patchwork of fields, canyons and páramo. You walk from Sigchos to Isinliví and on to Chugchilán, staying in family-run hostels known for hearty dinners and wood stoves.
The last stage climbs to the rim of Quilotoa, a 3 km wide volcanic caldera filled with a startlingly green lake. Optional descent to the shore and kayak on the lake before returning to Latacunga.
Highlights
- Rim walk around the Quilotoa crater lake
- Kichwa villages and Saturday markets
- Toachi River canyon crossing
- Cozy family-run hostels
- Luggage transferred between villages
Included
- Trekking guide
- 2 nights in village hostels
- Breakfasts and dinners
- Luggage transfer
- Transport back to Latacunga
Not included
- Lunches
- Kayak rental at Quilotoa
- Tips
Before you go
Moderate fitness for 5–7 hours of walking a day at 2,900–3,900 m.
