The Quilotoa region presents some of the best hiking in Ecuador, from traversing deep rugged canyons, volcanic crater lakes, and climbing around in cloud forests, to gentle walks through rolling patchwork hills and on to high-mountain cheese factories. If you have a few days, walk the whole loop from village to village, hopping on the bus or a local milk truck when you’ve had enough. Alternatively, base yourself in Chugchilán, Tigua, or Quilotoa and indulge in several fantastic day hikes. A few to check out:

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.

Another good 5 hour hike is from Isinliví to Chugchilán, which passes through the small village of Guantualo, and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the landscape. Hit the Monday market in Guantualo if you can.

The hike from Tigua to Quilotoa is 4-5 hours of breathtaking views and gentle trekking, rewarded with the glimmering waters of the Quilotoa Crater Lake at the end.

Read about things to do in specific towns, and ask around to determine which trails are currently best while you’re in the region. Any of these trips can be made in reverse. Always pay attention to the notoriously rapidly-changing weather, and be sure to leave ample time to complete hikes well ahead of afternoon rains and before dark falls. 

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By Caroline Bennett

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