There are a number of fantastic hikes in the area. 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 views of the glistening green volcanic crater lake, endless green pastures, and distant jagged mountains.

Another good 5 hour hike is from Chugchilán to Isinliví, which passes through the small village of Guantualo and offers plenty of opportunities to stop 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 darkness falls.

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

Location:
Chugchilán, Ecuador

Hiking

By Caroline Bennett

exploring, laughing, wanderlust, strangers. 120 film, making art, cyanotypes, vintage. scotch on the rocks & coffee, black. the unknown. the sound of...

Created: 11 May 2007

Updated: 13 Jul 2007

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