Weather in Quilotoa

Quilotoa is a water-filled volcanic crater whose turquoise lake sits over 3,900 metres above sea level, ringed by a rim trail that takes several hours to walk and offers constantly shifting views as clouds drift across the highlands. It's the centrepiece of the Quilotoa Loop, a multi-day hiking route through indigenous Andean villages that's become one of Ecuador's most popular treks.

Best areas to stay in Quilotoa

Quilotoa village

The small settlement on the crater rim, with basic hostels, restaurants, and the main viewpoint.

Crater rim trail

The hiking path circling the lake, offering changing views and access to the crater floor via a steep descent.

Chugchilán

A village a day's walk away, a common stop on the Quilotoa Loop with simple accommodation.

Sigchos and Isinliví

Other villages along the loop, connected by trails through farmland and cloud forest.

Getting to Quilotoa

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Flights

Fly into Quito (UIO), then travel by road via Latacunga (around 3-3.5 hours total) to Quilotoa.

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From London

~14-16 hours from London via a US or Bogotá connection plus onward road travel.

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Getting around

Buses connect Latacunga to Quilotoa; the Quilotoa Loop is walked on foot between villages, with occasional pickup trucks for transport.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Quilotoa?

June to September is generally drier and clearer for crater views, though the highlands can be cloudy and cold year-round.

How do I get to Quilotoa?

Quilotoa is reached by bus from Latacunga, around 2-2.5 hours, often as part of the broader Quilotoa Loop route.

How long does it take to walk around the crater rim?

A full loop around the rim takes roughly 5-6 hours, with significant altitude gain and exposed sections.

What is the Quilotoa Loop?

A multi-day hiking route connecting villages in the Ecuadorian highlands, typically ending or starting at the Quilotoa crater, with basic hostels along the way.

How cold does it get at Quilotoa?

At over 3,900 metres, temperatures can drop close to freezing at night, so warm layers are essential regardless of season.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

The first view of that turquoise lake from the rim took my breath away, almost as much as the altitude did. Hiking the full rim was tough but incredible.

Adrian K. · August 2023

★★★★★

Did the Quilotoa Loop over three days, staying in small village hostels along the way, real off-the-beaten-path Ecuador and the crater was the perfect finale.

Helena T. · July 2024

★★★★☆

Bitterly cold in the morning but the views once the clouds cleared were worth it. Bring more layers than you think you need.

Mateo V. · September 2023