Lake Quilotoa Circuit

The collapse of an ancient volcano produced this superb roughly circular caldera, with cliffs falling some 500m to a startlingly turquoise, mineral-rich lake. Its rim sits at around 3,800m, with canyons radiating from it.

The surrounding area is exceptionally rugged, a maze of valleys, canyons and gullies carved into the soft volcanic rock.

The trail sticks close to the rim for most of the time, so it involves a lot of up and down, some of it steep. It is a dramatic, thrilling walk, and a visual treat. On one side will be the crater and its lake, its colours changing with the passing of clouds and advancing day. On the other, farmland, gullies and canyons far below and distant mountains and ridges creating the skyline.

It is safe, although at times a decidedly airy knife edge between the crater cliffs and the steeply falling outsides of the old volcano; take care in strong or gusty wind. Not for those who struggle with heights.

While most of the vegetation is tough little shrubs and some paramo grass, you will pass through patches of pine, larger bush and even fine bare sand.

A local guide can help wayfinding - Walkopedia came with its 13 & 10 year olds, and were glad to take some not necessarily obvious flatter paths round the backs of some of the mini peaks towards the end.

The caldera rim can be cold and windy. Come prepared.

The walk should take 4 1/2 - 5 hrs, although Walkopedia took nearer 6, including lunch and regular tired-child-breaks.

This is a demanding walk in remote mountains with uncertain weather, where altitude can cause real problems. Come 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 area. Find relevant books by using our Amazon search function:

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