Quilotoa Loop
The Quilotoa Loop (in Spanish as "Circuito Turistico Quilotoa") is a multi-day trek through the Andes Mountains that connects country trails and small villages towns in the Ecuadorian highlands with the Quilotoa volcano & lagoon.
The Quilotoa Loop crosses deep valleys, dusty roads, and green hills, throught natives villages and small towns. The Quilotoa Loop adventure is a trekking route that start in Sigchos, continues to Isinlivi and Chugchilan to end in the Quilotoa Volcano Lagoon. In fact, It can start or end at the Quilotoa crater. The choice is up to each traveler!
For the Quilotoa Loop trekking, you can host and have lunch in each of the villages along the way, so the entire trek can be completed without additional equipment such as: tent, stove, sleeping bag, supplies, etc.
The assistance of a local guide is highly recommended for the trek Quilotoa Loop.
Where start the Quilotoa Loop?
The Quilotoa Loop can begin from the main entrance of the Quilotoa and continue toward the village of Sigchos (or just to the town of Isinlivi). This route is less demanding, as you'll lose altitude because the Quilotoa Volcano is the highest point on the trail. Although it's a good trek route, most adventurers and travelers prefer to leave Quilotoa for the last day of the trail because to reach the end of the trek with the excitement of conquering and summit the impressive Quilotoa.
How to get to the Quilotoa Loop?
From Quito
First, you must get to the Quitumbe Bus Terminal Station, located south of Quito. The easiest, safest, and most economical way (ticket price is $0.45) is to take the Quito Metro (subway) south direction to the last station named "Quitumbe" (where the Quitumbe Bus Station is also located). Then, take a bus to Latacunga (buying a ticket at the bus offices located on the second floor). Buses depart regularly every 30-45 minutes. The trip takes 1 hour and 30 minutes and tickets cost between $3 and $4 USD with Cooperativa Latacunga, Transportes Cotopaxi and Transportes Ciro.
Sigchos or Isinlivi
Once in Latacunga, take a bus to Sigchos or Isinlivi in the Latacunga Bus Station. Buses depart every hour and all days. Travel from city of Latacunga to the town of Sigchos takes an estimated time of two hours and the ticket costs about $2 - $3 USD. Only cash is accepted. *Bus schedules in Ecuador sometimes change frequently.
Also, a great option is to spend the night before in the city of Latacunga, so you can start the journey to Sigchos or Isinlivi early the next morning.
To start the Quilotoa Loop from the Volcano, read: How to get Quilotoa?
Metro Quito Subway Stations
Quito's Metro -subway- goes through the main areas of the city, facilitating the movement of residents and travelers between the north and south of Quito.
Quito Subway Schedules
- Business Days: 5:30 – 23:00 hours
- Saturdays: 7:00 – 23:00 hours
- Sundays and Holidays: 7:00 – 22:00 hours
Trekking Sigchos to Quilotoa
The classic route begins in the village of Sigchos and heads toward Quilotoa Volcano. You can also start in the village of Isinlivi, depending on the days available to complete the route. The complete Quilotoa Loop from Sigchos to Quilotoa Lagoon takes approximately 40 km (24.9 miles) and an estimated duration of three to five days, depending on the starting point, weather conditions and the intensity of the hike.
The trail has some signs along the way, but due to the wild nature of the area you can lose the path at any time. It's important to use maps, GPS devices, or Map Apps. If you're new or inexperienced, it's best to hire a local guide or a Quilotoa Loop Tour.
This trail is used by locals, but it's also possible to hike for days without meet anyone. Summer in Ecuador (June to September) is the best time to hike the Quilotoa Loop. December to February is a good time too, but weather is more colder and rainier.
Quilotoa Loop Itinerary
DAY 1: SIGCHOS > ISINLIVI (Distance: 14Km - 8.7Miles) | Walk Time: 4-7 Hours
DAY 2: ISINLIVI > CHUGCHILAN (Distance: 12Km - 7.5Miles) | Walk Time: 4-8 Hours
DAY 3: CHUGCHILAN > QUILOTOA (Distance: 14Km - 8.7Miles) | Walk Time: 5-9 Hours
Accommodations for Quilotoa Loop
There are hosts and accommodations options available along the Quilotoa Loop. Some can be found by their own websites and others on travel/booking apps by searching the town name: "Sigchos," "Isinlivi," "Chugchilán," and "Quilotoa".
Suggestions for Quilotoa Loop Trek
- There are no ATMs along the way. Bring enough cash.
- Cell phone and internet service is available in the accommodation areas.
- Trekking poles are a great help for this trek.
- Some accommodations offer prepared food to take along the route.
- Acclimatization is a good to avoid the effects of altitude sickness.
- Your safety is important, travel with a local guide or with a group.
Ready for the Quilotoa Loop?!
The challenge of the Quilotoa Loop is the best opportunity to explore and enjoy the andean region and all amazing landscapes of Ecuador highlands in South America.