Laguna Quilotoa
Laguna del Quilotoa
An emerald-coloured volcanic crater lake at 3,900 m above sea level, about 3 km across. It is one of Ecuador's most beautiful volcanic lakes.
The crater formed about 800 years ago when a volcanic eruption caused the ground to collapse. The lake water shifts from emerald to deep turquoise because of its minerals. The walk down from the Quilotoa village viewpoint to the lakeshore takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and the climb back up takes 1 to 1.5 hours. At this altitude, it is hard going, so you can pay to ride a mule up. Kayaks can be rented at the lakeshore. The full loop trail around the rim is about 10 to 12 km and takes 5 to 6 hours. A small community fee is charged to enter the village. Morning and evening temperatures are close to 0°C, so bring warm clothing and sun protection.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Mirador Shalalá
- Chugchilán
- Toachi Canyon Viewpoint
- Tigua
- Zumbahua Saturday Market
- Isinliví
- Pujilí
- Saquisilí Thursday Market