5-Day Quilotoa Loop Trek with Meals & Guide｜Ecuador

Day 1: Quito to Isinliví

Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel or Quito’s airport. Travel along the Pan-American Highway South, turning off toward the town of Toacazo. Head west between the Guangaje and Chugchilán mountain ranges, admiring the Great Toachi River Canyon. Arrive at your accommodation in the town of Isinliví.

Day 2: Isinliví to Chugchilán

Embark on a trek that crosses the Great Toachi River Canyon, formed centuries ago by Quilotoa’s last eruption. Walk alongside the river for much of the journey, crossing an inter-Andean valley. This trail is friendly for those looking to acclimate in a short period. Spend the night in Chugchilán.

Day 3: Chugchilán to Guayama Grande

Trek the “Canyons Route” on the slopes of the Quilotoa Volcano (North Side of the Crater). Experience constant ascents and descents through canyons until reaching the highest part of the crater (north side). Be rewarded with stunning landscapes of canyons and volcano slopes. Spend the night in "Guayama Grande" Community.

Day 4: Crater Loop and Quilotoa Community

Tackle the most challenging section of the Quilotoa Loop Circuit, offering the most beautiful perspectives of the blue-turquoise volcanic lagoon. From the crater rim, see the communities you've passed through—villages that have existed for centuries in these western highlands of the Andean range. Spend the night in the Quilotoa Community.

Day 5: Descent to the Quilotoa Lagoon

Descend to the lagoon, offering a completely new perspective of the "Great Water-Filled Volcano" from a different altitude. At the end of the trail, reach the lagoon dock at 3,500 meters above sea level (11,480 ft), where the local community offers several activities such as kayaking or a motorboat ride. After lunch, head back to Quito, the airport, or your next city.