Hiking

Location:
Chugchilán, Ecuador

Hiking

By Caroline Bennett

There are a number of fantastic hikes in the area, ask around to determine which trails are currently best at the time of your stay.

The walk from the Quilotoa crater to Chugchilán is undoubtedly one of the best short hikes in Ecuador. The trek takes 4-5 hours depending on how long you stop to let your jaw drop at the alternating views between glistening green volcanic crater lake and endless green pastures, backed by distant jagged mountains.

Hike from Chugchilán to Isinliví, passing through the small village of Guantualo. A good 5 hours with plenty of stops to admire the landscape. Hit the Monday market in Guantualo if you can.

Either of these trips can be made in reverse. Always pay attention to the notoriously quickly changing weather, and be sure to leave ample time to complete hikes well before afternoon rains and dark.

Any of the area’s accommodations will happily arrange guides for a number of incredible scenic hikes, and prices for such services are relatively established at $10-$15 per 4-6 hour trek. Alternatively, you can give a local guide a call yourself -- ask around, or try:

Bernacho 08-810-2369

Miguel 08-811-1010