Quilotoa: Breathtaking Views from the Crater Rim

​Today, we drove south from Cotopaxi National Park, continuing our journey through the Andean highlands. We first passed Latacunga, where we took a right turn toward the Western Andes (Andes Occidentales). We made our way through the villages of Pujilí and Zumbahua before reaching Quilotoa.

This area is still part of Cotopaxi Province and is known for its breathtaking high-altitude landscapes and traditional indigenous culture. What struck us the most was that, even at almost 4,000 meters above sea level, people still cultivate various crops, including potatoes, quinoa, barley, and fava beans. In Europe, at this altitude, you’d only find snow!

Quilotoa Lake is a marvel of nature, a deep, emerald-green crater lake at 3,914 meters above sea level. It was formed after a massive volcanic eruption around 800 years ago, leaving behind a caldera that gradually filled with water. The minerals in the lake give it its vibrant color, which shifts with light and weather. And no, I didn’t tweak the colors in Photoshop—it really does look like this!

This lake holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for indigenous communities. According to local legends, Quilotoa’s waters are said to be bottomless and connected to the ocean, adding to the enigmatic allure of this place.

We hiked along the crater rim for about an hour and a half, taking in the incredible viewpoints. At nearly 4,000 meters, the thin air made every step a challenge, but the stunning views gave us the perfect excuse to stop and catch our breath every now and then! It was a serious workout, but the sense of accomplishment and the beauty of the landscape made it all worth it.