Explore the Quilotoa Loop through Ecuador’s highlands, where volcanic landscapes meet living Andean culture.

Hike through unique Andean landscapes and small indigenous villages. Routes include Isinliví – Chugchilán, Chugchilán – Quilotoa, the Quilotoa crater descent, the Toachi River canyon, and visits to the Tigua community, known for its vibrant paintings of Andean life, as well as the Zumbahua Indigenous Market.

This tour offers itineraries ranging from 1 to 6 days in the Andes. Daily hikes typically last 4 to 6 hours, with options from easy to more challenging routes, or the possibility to enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace in comfortable, family-run mountain lodges.

Quilotoa Loop Trekking Routes

QUILOTOA - CHUGCHILAN

Start at the top of the Quilotoa Crater by the crater edge & down to the Toachi River Valley, then climb up to Chugchilan. 6 – 7 Hours Hike

QUILOTOA LAGOON TREK

LAGOON TREK & TIGUA

Hike down to the shore of the lagoon & Kayak around, Horse Back Ride Back to the edge, and visit The Tigua Village.

CHUGCHILAN - INSILIVI

Start in Chugchilan, down the road into the valley of the Toachi River. Walk along the river, cross to the other side of the valley and end up climbing up to the village of Insilivi.

QUITO - INSILIVI

INSILIVI ACLIMATIZATION TREK

Drive from Quito and start with a short thek of 3 km. to Insilivi

🌕 Full Moon Experience – Hike to the Crater Under the Moonlight

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Join us for a special edition of the Quilotoa Loop, timed to align your final hike with the full moon rising over the crater.

On the Chugchilán–Quilotoa segment, we’ll hike at sunset and arrive at the rim under moonlight—a deeply moving experience surrounded by silence, stars, and ancient Andean energy.

Available on select full moon dates
Same incredible route, elevated by nature’s timing
Ideal for adventurers, spiritual seekers, and nature lovers

Plan Your Quilotoa Trek

Quilotoa Lagoon descent Trek & Kayak

Hike down for about 40 minutes to the shore, kayak in the amazing waters of this lake, and horseback ride back to the top!

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DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION	Quito, pick up from your hotel at 8:30 am/ Quito around 6:30 pm
DURATION	Our trips range from one-day excursions to two to four-day adventures.
QUILOTOA LOOP TOUR PRICING	Pricing is per person, per day, based on group size: USD 80 / person / day — Groups of 4 or more USD 100 / person / day — 3 people USD 120 / person / day — 2 people USD 220 / person / day — Solo traveler Accommodation costs may vary depending on your lodging preference. Full 4-Day Quilotoa Loop Experience For a minimum of 2 people, book the complete 4-day Quilotoa Loop adventure for: USD 480 per person This all-inclusive experience is designed for travelers who prefer a seamless journey
INCLUDED	Private transportation Local Guides Standard Accommodation for the full experience. Box Lunch Entrance fees
NOT INCLUDED	Accommodations for extended hiking trips Activities not mentioned Personal expenses, Extra nights Drinks, tips Optional Drop off at Baños de Agua Santa, Riobamba or Latacunga

Quilotoa

📍 3789m / 12431feet

Chugchilan

📍3190m / 10466feet

Insilivi

📍2774m / 9101feet

Local Markets Along the Quilotoa Loop

The Quilotoa Loop is not only about landscapes — it’s also a cultural route shaped by local communities. Depending on your travel dates, you may have the opportunity to experience traditional Andean markets along the way.

🛍️ Zumbahua Market (Saturday)

The most relevant market for this itinerary.

Located near Quilotoa, Zumbahua hosts a vibrant Saturday market where local communities gather to trade produce, textiles, and livestock. It’s one of the most authentic cultural experiences in the region, with strong indigenous presence and traditional dress.

If your itinerary falls on a Saturday, we can adjust timing to include a visit.

🛍️ Saquisilí Market (Thursday)

One of the largest and most traditional markets in the Cotopaxi region, located near Latacunga.

Early in the morning, the animal market (including llamas and sheep) becomes especially active, offering a raw and authentic look into rural trade systems.

Can be included if your trip starts on a Thursday.

🛍️ Chugchilán Local Market (Sunday)

A small, local gathering rather than a large market, but still a meaningful cultural moment.

On Sundays, nearby communities come into Chugchilán to trade goods and socialize, offering a quieter, more intimate glimpse into daily life in the Andes.

🛍️ Tigua Community (Any Day)

Included in your itinerary.

Rather than a scheduled market, Tigua is known for its distinctive Andean paintings, created by local artists. Visiting the community offers direct interaction with this artistic tradition and a deeper cultural connection.

Notes

Market visits depend on your travel dates and timing
We prioritize natural flow of the itinerary, not forced stops
Even without major market days, the route itself offers continuous cultural interaction

Plan Your Quilotoa Trek

4-Days/3-Nights Uphill Quilotoa Loop Guided Trek

If you’re seeking a captivating experience in the Ecuadorian Andes, we highly recommend visiting the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. You can opt for a day trip or explore the area over several days, including Quilotoa, Chugchilan, and Insilivi. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can choose between the 4-day uphill itinerary from Sigchos to Quilotoa or the downhill itinerary from Quilotoa to Sigchos. Additionally, you can embark on a spectacular trek through the Cloud Forest, which includes visits to Chocho (Andean bean) and cheese factories at Chugchilan.

Day 1: QUITO-INSILIVI

We start our journey in the morning, taking the Panamericana highway that runs through the avenue of the volcanoes. If the day is clear, we witness the breathtaking view of the Cotopaxi Volcano. After a drive of about 2 hours, we reach the Guingopana Pass, which offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and the valley of the Toachi River. We trek for around 2 hours, covering a distance of 3 km, to reach the village of Isinlivi and get acclimatized. Meals: Lunch and dinner. Hotel: Llullu Llama.

Day 2: TREK INSILIVI TO CHUGCHILAN

We gear up for another day of trekking after having our breakfast. This day offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the daily lives of the local people while traversing through the breathtaking Andean landscapes. The trek is relatively easy, involving ascending and descending, walking along hamlets and cultivated valleys all along the Toachi River. After descending to the canyon, we climb for a minimum of 5 hours and a maximum of 6 hours, covering about eleven kilometers until we reach the charming town of Chugchilan (3200). This small town boasts a mix of mestizo and indigenous populations and is becoming increasingly popular amongst tourists. Meas: Breakfast, Box Lunch, and dinner. Hotel: Mama Hilda or similar.

Day 3: TREK CHUGCHILAN TO QUILOTOA

After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, we embark on our hike to the Quilotoa Loop. Our journey begins by descending to the Toachi River, which we follow upstream. We gradually ascend the canyon and cross the Rio Sigui Canyon to reach Guayama town, where we can take a moment to rest. We continue our hike, passing through Andean crops and local homes for approximately eleven kilometers. Upon reaching the top of the Quilotoa Loop (3800 mosl), we are rewarded with the breathtaking sight of a volcanic crater home to a stunning emerald lake. This is the perfect opportunity to capture some unforgettable pictures. Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, and Dinner Hotel: Chukirawa Hostel.

Day 4: QUILOTOA LAGOON TREK AND TIGUA ART WORKSHOP

After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, you can head to the crater and hike down to the lake’s edge for a kayaking adventure. To return, you have the option to rent horses or take a steep walk back. Later, enjoy a traditional lunch in the highlands before visiting the Tigua community, famous for its vibrant paintings depicting Andean culture. Your day will conclude with a drop-off in Quito. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. End of our services

LATACUNGA WEATHER

🌕 FULL MOON EXPERIENCE – QUILOTOA CRATER TREK UNDER THE MOONLIGHT

Why is this trek unlike any other?

Picture yourself hiking to the rim of the Quilotoa Crater just as the full moon rises, casting its silver light over the Andean landscape. The silence, the cool highland breeze, and the reflection on the lagoon below create a mystical, soul-stirring experience you’ll never forget.

🔥 Most Popular Full Moon Departures – Limited Spots
These departures offer the best weather, trekking conditions, and availability.
Book now to secure your place — only one departure per month.

🗓️ 2026 Full Moon Departures – Timed to Perfection

These dates are carefully planned so that we arrive at the Quilotoa Crater on the exact night of the full moon:

Full Moon Date (Night at Crater – Day 3)	Trek Start Date (Day 1)	Notes
February 2, 2026	January 31, 2026	Quiet, mystical, niche travelers
March 3, 2026	March 1, 2026	Excellent balance of weather & light
April 2, 2026	March 31, 2026	Strong spring sales
May 1, 2026	April 29, 2026	One of the best months
June 30, 2026	June 28, 2026	Peak Andes season
July 29, 2026	July 27, 2026	⭐ Star departure of the year
August 28, 2026	August 26, 2026	Dry, perfect trekking
September 26, 2026	September 24, 2026	Shoulder season, beautiful skies
October 26, 2026	October 24, 2026	Dramatic landscapes
November 24, 2026	November 22, 2026	End-season, soulful vibe
December 24, 2026	December 22, 2026	Christmas Full Moon (very unique)

Spots are limited—only one full moon departure each month.

Special 4-Day / 3-Night Itinerary

Day 1 – Quito → Isinliví
Private transport from Quito. Scenic drive through the Andes. Overnight in a cozy mountain lodge with fireplace and views.

Day 2 – Trek Isinliví → Chugchilán
5–6 hour hike through remote valleys, canyons, and traditional Andean villages. Overnight in Chugchilán.

Day 3 – Trek Chugchilán → Quilotoa Crater (Full Moon Hike)
We begin the trek in the late afternoon, reaching the rim at sunset to witness the full moon rising over the crater. Reflective moment under the stars. Overnight in Quilotoa.

Day 4 – Crater Views → Return to Quito
Optional morning walk to the lagoon. Time to enjoy viewpoints and coffee before returning to Quito.

What’s Included

Roundtrip private transport from Quito
3 nights of local guesthouse accommodation
All meals during the trek
Professional bilingual trekking guide
Full moon logistics and timing coordination
Special reflective activity at the summit

Who is this for?

Adventure seekers craving a deeper connection with nature
Spiritual travelers drawn to moon cycles and mountain energy
Hikers who want something rare and unforgettable

Where You Stay — Quilotoa Loop (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Accommodation along the Quilotoa Loop is an essential part of the experience. Rather than standard hotels, you’ll stay in small, family-run lodges that reflect the character, warmth, and simplicity of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Each stop has been carefully selected to align with the trekking route, altitude progression, and overall comfort throughout the journey.

Night 1 — Isinliví (Llullu Llama Lodge)

Your first night is spent in the quiet village of Isinliví, a perfect place to acclimatize and ease into the Andes.

Llullu Llama is one of the most iconic lodges along the route, offering:

Comfortable rooms (private or shared)
Hot showers and cozy common areas
Fresh, home-style meals

A relaxed and welcoming start to the trek.

Night 2 — Chugchilán (Mama Hilda or similar)

After a full day hiking through the Toachi River canyon, you’ll arrive in Chugchilán — a small Andean village surrounded by dramatic landscapes.

Typical stays include family-run lodges such as Mama Hilda, known for:

Warm hospitality and home-cooked meals
Simple but comfortable rooms
A genuine connection to local life

This is one of the most authentic overnight experiences on the Quilotoa Loop.

Night 3 — Quilotoa Crater (Chukirawa Lodge or similar)

Your final night is spent near the Quilotoa crater, allowing you to fully experience this unique volcanic landscape.

Lodges in this area offer:

Direct access to the crater viewpoints
Simple, comfortable rooms adapted to altitude
Early access to sunrise over the lagoon

Staying at the crater adds a special dimension to the experience.

What to Expect

✔ Family-run mountain lodges with local character
✔ Simple, clean, and comfortable accommodations
✔ Meals prepared fresh on-site
✔ Strategic locations aligned with each trekking day

We prioritize authenticity, comfort, and flow, ensuring each stop enhances the overall journey.

Notes

Accommodation may vary slightly depending on availability, but always within the same standard and route
Private room upgrades can be arranged when available
All stays and meals are organized in advance — no additional booking required