Quilotoa Lagoon

Overview

Quilotoa Lagoon is a stunning volcanic crater lake located in the Andes of Ecuador. The lagoon's vibrant turquoise waters and the surrounding lush landscape make it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Quilotoa is one of the most accessible water-filled volcanic craters in the world and offers breathtaking views of the Ecuadorian countryside.

Lake Hiking Scenic View

Location

Address

Quilotoa

Neighborhood: Quilotoa Crater

Coordinates

-0.433300, -78.916700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$5

Children

$3

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day with hike

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• wildflowers
• clear skies

summer

warm

• clear views
• warm temperatures

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• cool breezes

winter

cold and rainy

• misty landscape
• fewer visitors

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Bring water
Wear hiking shoes
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

water hiking shoes sun protection

seasonal

rain jacket warm layers

not allowed

drones large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• altitude sickness
• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $5

guide $20

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

casual and comfortable, hiking boots, layered clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate attire for hiking

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• local tour operators
• 48 hours
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Quilotoa Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Hiking trails, Weather info

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Not available

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Mariscal Sucre International Airport

Distance: 180 km

Travel Time: 3-4 hours

taxi

$80 3-4 hours

public_transport

$20 5-6 hours

From City Center

Distance: 60 km

bus

$5 2-3 hours

taxi

$50 1.5-2 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Natural beauty and cultural significance

Historical Significance: Formed by a volcanic eruption

Insider Tips

Best views from the crater rim
Local guides offer great insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local fruit
• Visit the nearby village

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola

thank_you Gracias

where_is ¿Dónde está?

how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?

beautiful Hermoso

ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lagoon Viewpoint

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Breathtaking landscape

#Quilotoa #Ecuador #Lagoon

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas none

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit required

drone policy restricted

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Toachi Canyon

Distance: 20 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Canyon

Latacunga

Distance: 30 km