Hike through unique Andean landscapes and small indigenous villages. Routes: Insilivi – Chugchilán, Chugchilan – Quilotoa, Quilotoa crater descent, Toachi River canyon, Insilivi, Tigua community known for bright paintings of Andean life, Zumbahua Indian Market.

This tour offers day trips ranging from 1 to 6 days in the Andes. The hikes vary from 4 to 6 hours per day, and you can choose from easy to challenging hikes or opt for a relaxing day in the comfortable and cozy 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

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: ✔ $80 USD/day – Groups of 4 or more ✔ $100 USD/day – Groups of 3 ✔ $120 USD/day – 2 people ✔ $220 USD/day – Solo traveler Note: Additional accommodation costs may apply depending on your lodging choice. 💡 Full 4-Day Experience For a minimum of 2 people, book the complete 4-day adventure for $580 USD per person. This package includes accommodation, transport, and a guide, ensuring a seamless and immersive journey through the Ecuadorian Andes.
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 Market Schedules Along the Quilotoa Loop

Explore the vibrant local markets along the Quilotoa Loop, each offering a unique glimpse into Andean culture and traditions.

🛍️ Saquisilí Market – Thursday
Located 20 minutes from Latacunga, Saquisilí hosts one of the largest and most important markets in Cotopaxi province. The streets come alive with vendors, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere. Early risers can even witness the llama trade at 6 a.m. in the animal section.

🛍️ Zumbahua Market – Saturday
Nestled among dramatic mountain peaks, Zumbahua Market is a 90-minute drive from Chugchilán. Every Saturday morning, it bursts with indigenous crafts, fresh produce, and traditional goods. The market also has a large llama trading section and typically wraps up around 1-2 p.m.

🛍️ Chugchilán Market – Sunday
After a hearty breakfast, take a stroll through the quaint Sunday market in Chugchilán. Though the town is small, Sundays bring together around 100 people, offering a great opportunity to experience local life.

🛍️ Guantualo Morning Market – Monday
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, hike or ride horseback across the canyon from Chugchilán to visit this rural community market, still untouched by tourism. Here, you’ll witness centuries-old trading traditions. The journey takes about three hours each way.

🛍️ Latacunga Market – Tuesday
As the largest town on the Quilotoa Loop, Latacunga hosts a bustling Tuesday market, offering a mix of traditional Andean goods, fresh produce, and artisanal crafts.

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.

🗓️ 2025 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	Trek Start Date (Day 1)	Crater Arrival (Day 3)
April 13, 2025	April 11, 2025	April 13, 2025 (night)
May 12, 2025	May 10, 2025	May 12, 2025 (night)
June 11, 2025	June 9, 2025	June 11, 2025 (night)
July 10, 2025	July 8, 2025	July 10, 2025 (night)
August 9, 2025	August 7, 2025	August 9, 2025 (night)
Sept 7, 2025	Sept 5, 2025	Sept 7, 2025 (night)

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 to Stay During the Quilotoa Loop Tour with Barefoot Expeditions

Planning to trek the stunning Quilotoa Loop with Barefoot Expeditions? This multi-day adventure takes you through the Ecuadorian Andes, from Sigchos to Quilotoa, with stops in charming villages like Isinlivi and Chugchilán. Based on the 4 day itinerary from Barefoot Expeditions, here’s a guide to possible places to stay at each key point along the route. These accommodations range from cozy hostels to community-run lodges, offering a mix of comfort and local charm. Note: Prices and availability may vary, so it’s best to book ahead!

Day 0: Latacunga (Starting Point)

Before embarking on the trek, you’ll likely spend a night in Latacunga, the gateway to the Quilotoa Loop. It’s a great spot to store extra luggage and prepare for the journey.

Hotel Rosim: Affordable and trekker-friendly, with rooms starting at $15-$24. They offer free breakfast and bag storage. Book on Booking.com
Hostal Café Tiana: A budget favorite with dorms and private rooms, perfect for meeting fellow hikers. Prices start around $10-$20. Book on Booking.com

Day 1: Sigchos to Isinlivi

The trek begins in Sigchos (2,800 meters elevation) and ends with an overnight stay in Isinlivi after a 3-4 hour hike. Barefoot Expeditions highlights the rural charm of this leg.

Hostal Taita Cristobal: A welcoming, family-run spot with hearty meals included. Prices start at $15-$20 per person. Book on Booking.com
Llullu Llama Hostel: A trekker’s favorite with a cozy vibe, jacuzzi, and meals included. Rates around $25-$35 per person. Check Availability

Day 2: Isinlivi to Chugchilán

After a 4-6 hour hike through the Toachi River valley, you’ll rest in Chugchilán (3,200 meters elevation), a village known for its indigenous culture and growing popularity among tourists.

Hostal Mama Hilda: Mentioned by Barefoot Expeditions as a typical stay, this cozy lodge offers home-cooked meals and a warm atmosphere. Prices range from $20-$30 per person.
Hostal Cloud Forest: Known for hearty food and trail signboards, with shared and private rooms from $15-$25.
Black Sheep Inn: A luxury eco-lodge option with stunning views and vegetarian meals, starting at $20 for shared rooms. Visit Their Site

Day 3: Chugchilán to Quilotoa

The final 6-8 hour hike takes you to Quilotoa (3,914 meters elevation), home to the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake. You may stay overnight here to enjoy the views at sunrise.

Hostal Chukirawa: Close to the crater, with breakfast and dinner options. Prices start at $18-$30 per person. Book on Booking.com
Hostería Alpaka Quilotoa: A comfortable choice with great food and proximity to the crater, around $30-$40 per person.

Optional Post-Trek: Latacunga

After the trek, you might return to Latacunga to rest before heading to your next destination. Reuse your pre-trek accommodation or try:

Hotel San Agustin Plaza: A step up in comfort, with rooms from $30-$50. Book on Booking.com

Tips for Booking

Cash is King: Most places along the Loop don’t accept cards, so bring enough USD (Ecuador’s currency).
Meals Included: Many hostels offer breakfast and dinner, but confirm when booking—especially in Quilotoa, where it’s not always standard.
Altitude Prep: With elevations up to 3,914 meters, acclimatize in Latacunga or Quito beforehand.