Quilotoa Crater Rim Hike
- Full day
- Hiking
- Starts and ends in Machachi
- Pickup in Quito available
- Private or small group
Overview
Hike part of the crater rim for wide views of the lagoon and the Andes, then walk down to the water. Starts and ends in Machachi.
Itinerary
Start in Machachi
Your tour starts early in the morning at our office in Machachi, south of Quito, or at your hotel in Quito if you add the pickup. The road crosses the high páramo to the village of Quilotoa.
Starts and ends: our office in Machachi
Pickup in Quito: available as an extra
Hike along the crater rim
A few hours on the trail that follows the rim of the crater, with the lagoon on one side and the Andes on the other. Your guide sets the pace and chooses the section that suits your group.
Viewpoints over the lagoon
Stops at the viewpoints for photos of the turquoise water and, on clear days, the snow-capped volcanoes.
Down to the shore
Walk down to the lagoon, rest by the water and climb back to the village, or ride a mule up.
Return to Machachi
The drive back to Machachi, or to your hotel in Quito if you added the pickup.
What's included
Included
- Transport from and to our office in Machachi
- Local English-speaking hiking guide
- Bottled water and a snack
Not included
- Pickup in Quito or other cities (you can add it as an extra)
- Lunch
- Mule ride, paid locally
- Tips
Good to know
- Fitness
- You should be comfortable walking for several hours at high altitude, on sandy and uneven trails.
- What to wear
- Hiking shoes, warm layers, a windproof jacket, sunscreen and a hat.
How booking works
- Choose your date and group. The price per person drops as your group grows, and you see the total before you send anything.
- Check availability. Nothing is booked or charged yet; we confirm your date first.
- Pay and enjoy. Once confirmed, we send you a secure payment link by email or WhatsApp.
