The 10 best things to do in Quilotoa

A list of top ten most popular activities to do on a trip to Quilotoa. Some are completely free, while others are offered for a minimum fee. Ready? Let's go!

The best activities and places to visit in Quilotoa and its surrounding areas.

1) Shalalá Viewpoint

Shalalá is a community tourism section in Quilotoa, where an awesome glass and wood viewing platform was developed in 2013, covering an area of 616 m². This architectural structure, named "Mirador Shalalá," is today one of the most visited sites for its incredible panoramic views of the Quilotoa Lagoon.

Read more: "Shalalá - Quilotoa"

2) Trail around the Quilotoa Crater

The complete loop around the Quilotoa crater is a magnificent trail that simulate a "climb" to the Quilotoa volcano's summit. This route has approximately 11-km for a winding path, through gentle descents and steep climbs across the crater's upper rim.

The trail that completely goes around of Quilotoa crater passes through several natural viewpoints, as well as sections where Quilotoa Lake is out of sight.

Read more: "Lap to Quilotoa Crater"

3) Hike to Quilotoa Beach

On the other hand, the most popular trail among adventurers and tourists is the one that descends from the Quilotoa's Volcano entrance to Quilotoa Beach (to the lagoon), where is the shore of the lagoon and its beautiful turquoise waters.

The hike is 1.6 km long and an one hour downhill to the shore of Quilotoa Lagoon, while the return hike can take from 1 to 2 hours depending on your physical condition.

Read more: "Quilotoa Beach (La Playita Quilotoa)"

If you run out of energy and breath, you can rent a horse or mule for the return trip.

4) Sail Quilotoa Lagoon

Sail the crater lagoon of a volcano... like a movie scene! At the shores of Quilotoa lake, a kayak or a boat (a personal seat) can be rent for a ride on the Quilotoa lagoon.

Both options at the Quilotoa's lake, kayak and boats, are operated by local members for a price between $3 and $5, and for trip time between 25 and 30 minutes.

Read More: "Sail Quilotoa Lagoon"

5) Quilotoa Volcano Camping

Camping in Quilotoa and spending a night on a volcano is a great plan for the more adventurous traveler. There are two options: the first camp zone is on Quilotoa Beach and the second is at the Shalalá Tourist Center campsite.

Read More: "Camping at the Quilotoa Volcano"

6) Toachi River Canyon Viewpoint

The Toachi River Canyon is a ravine approximately 30 km (18.6 miles) long, through which the Toachi River flows alongside the Quilotoa road. The Toachi Canyon viewpoint offers a wonderful view of the Andean landscape of Ecuador.

7) Cycling the Quilotoa

Despite being an unusual activity, it is possible to cycle to Quilotoa. Most bike travelers consider visiting Quilotoa on their cycling route through Ecuador. From Latacunga, you can cycle along the Zumbahua-Quilotoa Highway, a very challenging route (75km / 47miles). There are also some MTB routes around Quilotoa Volcano.

MTB or Downhill routes may required specialized guides and authorizations.

Read More: "Quilotoa Biking"

8) Tigua Craft Workshop

A visit to the artistic space of the Tigua community (a town near Quilotoa) is another enriching and entertaining activity, as you can appreciate handcrafted pieces (inspired by pre-Columbian culture and Andean mythological worldview) such as masks, accessories, and paintings that are on display and for sale.

A must-see for travelers and tourists who love art.

9) Visit Zumbahua Town

Zumbahua is a town located 14 km from Quilotoa Volcano, on the Latacunga-Zumbahua-Quilotoa road. People from all the communities surrounding Quilotoa come to Zumbahua to deal goods during the market on saturdays. It is a good place to observe the mountainous landscapes and the local style of life.

10) Alpacas and Llamas in Quilotoa

🦙 You may not be able to buy him a coffee, but he'll listen attentively and perhaps accept your caresses, maybe even agree to take a selfie...

At Quilotoa, you'll find native Llamas and Alpacas of the Andes, roam the surroundings of the Quilotoa volcano and the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve.

Read More: "Alpacas and Llamas in the Quilotoa Volcano"

Llama is a species of camelid from the family of Alpacas, Vicuñas and Guanacos that has inhabited America since pre-Columbian times to the present day.

What to do at the Quilota?

Top 10 activities to life an amazing experience at the Quilotoa Volcano Lagoon. A giant of the Andes Mountains that shines in turquoise blue in South America.