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Quilotoa Volcano & Crater Lake Trek

18th Apr 2026 - 25th Apr 2026

8 days/Ecuador /Challenging

Online Booking Unavailable Please contact us on info@different-travel.com to discuss making a booking

Overview

Trip Summary | Quilotoa Volcano & Crater Lake Trek

Get ready for an epic journey through Ecuador’s wild and untamed highlands as we trek deep into the heart of the Andes.

This thrilling challenge takes you from the cobbled streets of Quito, South America’s vibrant cultural capital, to the volcanic spine of the country, where ancient trails wind through remote villages, dramatic canyons, and high-altitude ridgelines. Each day brings a new adventure: summiting the rocky flanks of Ruminahui, trekking through the rugged Toachi canyon, and tackling a demanding ascent to the spectacular crater rim of Quilotoa, where an otherworldly turquoise lake awaits.

This is no ordinary hike, expect steep climbs, high passes, and jaw-dropping views around every corner as we trek up to altitudes of 3,800m. Along the way, you’ll encounter traditional mountain communities, witness powerful geological landscapes shaped by fire and ice, and push your limits in one of the most awe-inspiring regions on the planet.

And if the adventure still calls, extend your trip to the legendary Galapagos Islands, where you’ll swim with sea lions, snorkel with turtles, and hike ancient lava trails in one of Earth’s most extraordinary wildlife havens. This is a true expedition for those who crave challenge, discovery, and wild beauty.

Fitness Requirements

Quilotoa Volcano & Crater Lake Trek is rated as challenging for someone of good fitness levels.

You will be trekking at altitude for 5 consecutive days, over varying and sometimes challenging terrain. While the distances may not appear long, you will be trekking between 6-8 hours a day with some tough, steep sections. The weather is unpredictable and changeable, and you will be carrying your backpack each day (your backpack could weigh 6-7kg) over hilly, uneven and rough terrain with basic accommodation and bathroom facilities.

The steep terrain and high altitude will make the going tough at times. The path can be exposed in places, especially when we are exploring the crater itself.

The terrain is mountainous so there will be lots of uphill and downhill areas. There are some steep sections with lots of ascents and descents so trekking poles are recommended, particularly for those with knee issues. It is not for the faint-hearted and some days will require a lot of endurance.

Underfoot you will find rocky or grassy trails, uneven and muddy tracks as well as scree slopes. It is critical that your training includes hill walking and trekking up and down gradients while carrying a heavy backpack.

The weather in the Andes Mountains is hard to predict and you may experience all four seasons in a day!

The higher the altitude the colder it gets. The lower altitudes experience warmer and softer climates than those villages found higher up.

The rainy season lasts from October to May but won’t rain all the time and most days start off with clear blue skies and lots of sun.

You are likely to experience average day time temperatures of around 20°C and night time average lows around 7°C during the trek.

Please note: the temperatures and conditions above are historically accurate for this time of year but climate change can impact the seasons so you may experience uncharacteristic conditions during the trip which are out of our control. Should this happen the guide will assess the situation and make decisions to ensure the best enjoyment and ultimately safety of the group as a whole.

A team of trek chefs will prepare hearty meals during the trek.

Breakfast is eaten as a group in the mess tent (hot drinks, bread, butter and jam, pancakes, scrambled eggs or oatmeal etc.) and the cooks will prepare delicious traditional Andean food for lunch and dinner. This will include dishes such as soup, chicken, beef or lamb, fish with potatoes, quinoa, rice or pasta. Snacks include fruit, chocolate, sandwiches, hot drinks and popcorn.

Local Ecuadorian specialties include ceviche, seafood prepared in lemon juice; lechón, suckling pig; and cuy,whole roasted guinea pig.

Most dietary requirements can be catered for if we are notified in advance.

The trip is accompanied by local professional English-speaking guides who have an excellent knowledge of the culture and trekking in the region. The guides are first aid trained and will support you throughout your journey. You will also be accompanied by a team of support staff  and a Different Travel Company UK tour manager.

You must be 18+ to participate on this trek unaccompanied. It may be possible to participate if you are 16 or 17 years old but you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit. The ideal candidate would be fit, healthy and determined, open to adventure and adaptable to unexpected changes.

Online Booking Unavailable Please contact us on info@different-travel.com to discuss making a booking

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