Cuicocha, multiple activities in the “Lagoon of the Gods"

There are multiple ways to get to know Ecuador and its corners. In the country there are several lagoons that allow nature lovers to live unparalleled experiences, contemplating the life that develops in it, as well as the surrounding environments.  

To the north of Ecuador, in the province of Imbabura , located two hours by car from the capital, is the Cuicocha lagoon or “Lagoon of the Gods”, at 3,068 meters above sea level. This lagoon is the result of a volcanic eruption, and is guarded by the Cotacachi volcano, located in the Western Andean Cordillera, in the Cotacachi- Cayapas Ecological Reserve.  

Full lap to the lagoon

In the Cuicocha lagoon, take a tour along the crater, for a walk of 12.50 km. This circuit is recommended to do it with a hired guide, and have the necessary clothing. Additionally, you can take walks on specific trails to photograph from 7 viewpoints; the volcanic crater that is approximately 3,000 years old.  

If you are a trekking or hiking lover Cuicocha is perfect for you.  

Crafts and Gastronomy

Ponchos, caps, purses and various handicrafts are made by local people with wool, animal leather and cattails. They market them on this site. In addition, in this Andean area you can enjoy a varied and delicious cuisine such as: fried imbabureña, roasted guinea pig, red meat and more flavors of the Andes. Additionally, this area is known for the preparation of delicious biscuits and milk delicacy.        

Rock climbing

The Cotacachi volcano is an ideal site for climbing because of its steep shape. Its summit is located at 4,939 meters above sea level. To make the ascent to the mountain requires at least two days, with the following itinerary: start with the hike and later overnight in the camping area. The ascent is recommended to be done in the early morning of the second day. In addition, this elevation is an ideal point for acclimatization of travelers seeking ascension to different summits of the Andes mountain range in the country. Ropes, helmets and appropriate clothing are necessary to ensure an ideal experience in this rocky area. 

Boat rides

Take a walk through the lagoon to feel the energy it transmits. The water source is fed by slopes of the Cotacachi volcano. The walk will allow you to observe closely the islets of volcanic rock located in the center of the lagoon (Teodoro Wolf and Yerovi), which are separated by the Canal de los Ensueños. In one part of the lagoon there are fumaroles and gases expelled from the bottom of the volcano in a bubbling way. In addition, you will see totoras, plants used by the inhabitants of the area, to make crafts.

Species observation

When walking along the trails in this area you will observe a wide biodiversity, such as 201 types of orchids; moors of pajonal and forests of paper trees or yahual. Also, trees of alder, myrtle, aguacatillo and Pico de Cuicocha. They live in the reserve: 139 species of mammals, 689 of birds, 111 of reptiles, 124 of amphibians and 39 species of fish. The wolves of the moor stand out, the white-tailed deer, the pumas, the rabbits, Andean bears, ducks, hummingbirds among other species that make up this natural space.

How to get to the Cuicocha Lagoon?

From Quito take the Panamericana Norte. The trip takes approximately two hours. You will travel about 120 km. At the Carcelén Terminal Station (north of Quito) you must take an interprovincial transport that connects to Otavalo, in the province of Imbabura. From this point you must take a taxi, taxi-van or urban transport to reach the lagoon, located in the Quiroga parish.