Quilotoa Camping
A full guide to camp at the Quilotoa Lagoon & Volcano in Ecuador
Camping in the Quilotoa is a great outdoor experience for any adventure tourist, traveler or backpacker. It's not every day you can camp on the shore of a volcanic lagoon more than 3,496 meters above sea level in the Andean mountains of South America.
Is camping allowed in Quilotoa?
The answer is yes. You can camp in Quilotoa. Remember that it is everyone's responsibility to take care of this protected area and the incredible biodiversity of this highlands.
Visit Rules
- Register your visit.
- Respect the trails of the area.
- Pets are prohibited.
- Do not enter alcoholic beverages.
- Take care of the flora and fauna of this ecosystem.
- Return your garbage and deposit it in authorized places.
- Free Entry.
- Your commitment is to help us protect and conserve the area.
Quilotoa Campsites
Where to camp in Quilotoa? You have two camping areas in the Quilotoa Volcano.
First Camping area is at the Quilotoa's Beach (La Playita Quilotoa). It is on the shores of the lagoon. To get there you have to do the Quilotoa Lagoon Trail.
Second Camping area is at the Shalala Tourist Center. You can get to Shalala by walking or vehicle. Its located on the top of crater. Shalala campsite cost $5. Shalalá Quilotoa
Authorization/Reservation to camp in Quilotoa?
Authorization or Reservations are not required for both camping areas. To camp in the Quilotoa Beach you need register at park ranger cabin. To camp in the Shalala Quilotoa pay and register at the entrance of Shalala Tourist Center. Availability is subject to capacity for each camping zone.
Ask at the time of your visit for current restrictions due to weather conditions, emergencies, maintenance, etc.
What do I need to camp in Quilotoa?
- ✓ Tent for 3-4 seasons.
- ✓ Sleeping bag for -5°C.
- ✓ Camping mattress.
- ✓ Food and drink provisions.
- ✓ Headlight, Hat and Warm Gloves.
- ✓ Thermal & Warm clothing.
- ✓ First aid kit.
Whatever the month or season the nights in Quilotoa are cold and windy (with temperatures between 15°C to – 5°C). During the summer season (June-September) few clouds and no rain at night. While the winter season (October to May) it is possible to have rain and cloudy skies.
A Thermal Blanket (Isothermal) is a cheap and lightweight solution to protect you from extreme cold/hot.
Recommendations for camp at the Quilotoa
- At the entrance of Quilotoa there are shops and restaurants.
- There are restrooms on the shore of the lagoon.
- Don't forget to pick up all the trash and take it with you.
- Do not attempt to swim or enter the lagoon.
- The water of Quilotoa lagoon is not suitable for human consumption.
- For emergencies call 911 for free.
If you don't have time to camp in Quilotoa, you can go on a Day Tour from Quito to Quilotoa Lagoon.