Is Quilotoa worth it?
A list of good reasons to visit Quilotoa at the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve
What to do in Quilotoa? Here 10 reasons to travel the Quilotoa. Remember that you will explore an incredible volcanic lagoon in Andes Mountains (almost close to the Middle of the World).
1) Shalalá "Crystal" Viewpoint
Shalalá is a native community that lives near the Quilotoa volcano. Between the year 2013-2014, the Ministry of Tourism of Ecuador supported the development of the tourist infrastructure "Mirador Shalalá", located on the upper rim of the crater. Now, visitors can enjoy the beautiful Shalalá viewingpoint, which is connected by a the trail from the main area of the Quilotoa entrance.
The architectural design of the Shalalá Viewpoint will inspire you to enjoy the landscape (and take beautiful photographs and videos). Guide to Shalala Tourist Center at Quilotoa
2) Full Trail to the Quilotoa Crater
The most challenging trail is the complete loop around the Quilotoa crater. This route of approximately 11km and about four to six hours follows a winding path, which sometimes has slight descents and steep elevations. This trekking circuit in Quilotoa crosses several viewpoints that are located along the way. There is no cost and it is recommended to do it early in the morning.
You wont see the Quilotoa Lagoon in some parts of the trail.
3) Quilotoa Lagoon Trail
The most popular trail for visitors is the one that descends from the main viewpoint of Quilotoa to the shore of the Quilotoa Lagoon (named as "Playita Quilotoa" which means Quilotoa Beach's).
The Trail is 1.6 km. The descent takes about 45 minutes, while the ascent can take 1 to 2 hours depending on the person's physical condition. The route has signs and it is a path of dirt, dust and stones. It is advisable to wear safe and comfortable shoes. Also glasses, cap and windproof jacket.
You can rent a horse in the shore of lagoon for the return trip.
4) Sail in the waters of the Quilotoa
Navigating the crater lake of a volcano... it looks like something out of a movie. When you reach the shores of the Quilotoa lagoon - also known as the Playita del Quilotoa -, you have two options to explore the waters of the Quilotoa. You can rent a boat for $5 or a kayak for $3 (for 25 to 30 minutes), both options are operated by members of the local community. Tickets are sale on place.
5) Camping in the Quilotoa Volcano
A camping plan in the Quilotoa is one of interesting activities that attracts many travelers.
For camp in Quilotoa you have two options. The first is at the Playita del Quillota, which is free and no needed a reservation (registration at entrance is required). The second is the camping area of the Shalalá Tourist Center, for a price of $5 and is located at the backstage of the viewpoint.
6) Toachi River Canyon Viewpoint
The Toachi River canyon (near the Sigchos canton) is a ravine approximately 30 kilometers long, over which the Toachi River flows and that is located on the way to the Quilotoa Volcano.
This natural panoramic viewpoint expands across the entire Toachi canyon to offer a view of the Ecuadorian Andean mountain range. It can be reached by trekking or taxi.
7) Bike the Quilotoa Volcano
Riding a bicycle along the Quilotoa is not a very common activity. But you can pedal Quilotoa if you're brave enough. Most bikeparckers (bicycle travelers) usually consider Quilotoa as an obligatory stop on the cycling route through Ecuador. Bikes are available for rent at the Quilotoa.
A route is from Latacunga to Quilotoa in a demanding journey that is best done on the way back.
DO NOT attempt to ride a bike or MTB on the trail around the crater, due to cracks, gullies and irregularities in the path that could cause serious injury or even death.
8) Tigua Craft Workshop
A stop for travelers who like art and crafts.
A visit to the artistic space of the community of Tigua (a small town near Quilotoa) is another enriching activity, where you can see crafts such as masks and paintings that are exhibited and sold. The inspiration of artists from Tigua comes from mythological culture and Andean folklore.
9) Zumbahua Town
Zumbahua is a town located 14 km from Quilotoa. This village is visible on the side of the way Latacunga-Zumbahua-Quilotoa where you will see impressive mountain landscapes. Residents from all the communities surrounding Quilotoa attend Zumbahua's market to deal basic products, organic goods and others livestock staff.
An opportunity to know the style of life in this place near Quilotoa.
10) See Alpacas and Llamas in Quilotoa
Maybe you can't buy him a coffee, but he will listen to you attentively and receive your caresses, maybe even agree to take a photo...
At the Quilotoa you will find the original Llamas of the Andes, carries by the natives that usually walk around the volcano and the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve.
The Llama is a species of camelid from the family of Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos that has lived in the history of Americas sinces pre-conquer.
🦙 Llama la llama...
