Quilotoa Crater Lake 3,914m

TREKKING

Quilotoa Crater LakeGuided expedition · Ecuador

Trek Quilotoa, a 3,914 m volcanic caldera holding a luminous turquoise crater lake, and one of the most photogenic places in the Ecuadorian Andes. This guided Quilotoa trek by PEAKS combines the crater rim, the lakeshore and a stretch of the famous Quilotoa Loop, run from our base in Riobamba.

On day one we drive up the Avenue of the Volcanoes, take in the first view of the lake and descend to the shore, with an optional kayak. We overnight at a local lodge, then hike the crater rim and part of the loop on day two.

This is an accessible high-altitude trek ideal for travellers who want dramatic scenery without technical climbing. It combines beautifully with El Altar or an acclimatisation summit for a fuller Andes itinerary.

The details

Expedition facts

3,914 m / 12,841 ft

Altitude

0.8583° S, 78.9036° W

Coordinates

2 days / 1N

Duration

Grade A (trek) · Easy–Moderate

Grade

3–5 hrs rim and lake trek

Daily activity

Year-round

Season

Meeting point

Riobamba (pickup)

Starting from

Enquire for prices

Basic hiking fitness. The main challenge is the altitude and the climb back up from the lakeshore; no technical experience is required.

Request a quote ›

The plan

Itinerary2 days / 1 night

Day 01

Hotel pickup in Riobamba
Drive to Quilotoa via the Avenue of the Volcanoes.
First view of the crater (3,914 m)
Arrive at the rim; lunch and first view of the lake.
Descent to the lakeshore
Hike down to the water; optional kayak (not included), then back to the rim.
Lodge check-in
Check in at a local lodge; dinner and briefing.

Day 02

Crater-rim and loop hike
Hike the rim and a stretch of the Quilotoa Loop.
Viewpoints and light lunch
Panoramic viewpoints over the caldera.
Return to Riobamba
Drive back to Riobamba.

Transparency

What's included

Included

Certified guides
Hotel pickup and transport from Riobamba
One night lodge accommodation
Permits and entrance fees
Photography
Training support

Not included

Meals not specified in the itinerary
Optional kayak on the lake
Personal clothing and waterproofs
Travel insurance
Optional tips

Good to know

FAQ

Is Quilotoa hard to hike?

The trails are non-technical, but the altitude (3,914 m) and the climb back up from the lake make good fitness helpful.

Can I swim or kayak in the lake?

Kayaking is available at the shore (optional, not included). The water is cold and sits inside a volcanic crater.

Is this a good acclimatisation trip?

Yes. It is a gentle way to spend time at altitude before a higher summit or the El Altar trek.

How do I book and what does it cost?

Prices are quoted on request. Enquire on WhatsApp and confirm with a non-refundable deposit.

Quilotoa Crater Lake