Laguna de Cuicocha and Cerro Cotatachi

Cerro Cotatachi is yet another dramatic former volcano, in this case collapsed in to its empty magma chamber to form a magnificent 3 km wide caldera containing the deep and often still Laguna de Cuicocha (at around 3,100m), complete with more recent cone-islands.

You can drive/bus to the lake from Otavalo. It is a popular spot, but you can escape most of your fellow humans on a reasonably straightforward 11 Km (4-5 hrs) circuit of the lake, much of it at the caldera rim. Superb views. There have been robberies here in the past, so check the current situation.

Cerro Cotatachi is climbable in 2 days from above the laguna. You will need to camp - but in lovely spots. The climb isn't straightforward - a helmet is said to be "imperative" by the Viva guide as a result of rockfalls, and you will traverse a knife-edge of rotten rock. But the views from the peak are tremendous. Walking the first part of this as a day walk is an option.

This climb is tough walking in remote mountains with uncertain weather, where altitude can cause real problems. Come fully prepared, including proper acclimatization.

Have a look at TripAdvisor - there are tens of millions of reviews, so you may get good, current views on guides, places to hike and places to stay.

Ecuador Climbing and Hiking Guide - Viva, has a worthwhile section on this walk. Find relevant books by using our Amazon search function:

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For more information and photos, including detailed practical information and some warnings, see our Otavalo Area walk page.