Quilotoa, an emerald colored lake located inside a volcano crater, is one of the Andes’ gems. At 3800m, the lake is also a host to surrounding indigenous communities. The drive to Quilotoa passes through the Zumbahua canyon and various indigenous towns and farmlands.

Depending on the day, we will visit either the Saquisilí (Thursdays), or Pujilí (Sundays) indigenous markets so you can appreciate the contrast between these and those of the Imbabura province (Otavalo).

 

We then arrive at the Quilotoa National Park and begin our descent to the lake, you can hike back up or rent a mule to take you back up. After lunch we will visit Shalala, a community well known for their handicrafts. 

Weather in Quilotoa is very unpredictable, so we recommend being prepared with warm and waterproof clothing (layers always help).

Itinerary
• Pick up at 7am in the New Town (Magic Bean Cafe)
• Pick up at 7:15am in the Old Town (Plaza San Blas)
• Leave towards Saquisili / Pujili / Indian markets (it depends on the day)
• Arrive to Quilotoa followed by trek around the crater
• Lunch
• Arrive to Tigua community
• Return towards Quito