About two and a half hours north of Quito, in the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserva, is the Laguna de Cuicocha. It is a mystic crater lake with two islands in the middle. They seem to be shaped like a guinea pig’s back. In the kichwa language, the word ‘Cuicocha’ means “guinea pig lake”. Guinea pigs are important animals for Ecuadorians, as they need little attention, reproduce fast and make for a high protein meal. The hike around the lake takes approximately 4 hours. It shows you the great diversity of Ecuador’s precious flora including wonderful orchids.

The hike around Cuicocha Lagoon is a perfect way to get your acclimatization started for higher peaks in Ecuador.

Any questions? Reach out to our climbing experts on info@andeansummitadventure.com or +593968959533 (WhatsApp or call).

For Rescue and Travel Insurance we recommend: Global Rescue. 

- see program / itinerary

- certified bi-lingual guide (NATIONAL GUIDE EC)

- transportation in private vehicle from / to Quito

- park entrance fees & formalities

- meals as specified (lunchbox)

- insurances (please make sure that you have an insurance covering risks of mountain climbing, we recommend Global Rescue) 

- cost for program changes

- tips & any other expenses not explicitly mentioned

Cancellation Conditions:

- 60 or more days prior to departure: the total amount paid will be refunded, less an administrative fee equal to 10% of the total price.

- 59 - 30 days prior to departure: a cancellation fee equivalent to 50% of the total price shall be retained.

- 29 and less days prior to departure: the entire total price shall be forfeited.

Change Conditions:

Any change of the purchased itinerary or services asked by the client before and during the trip will depend on availability, requires mutual agreement and will be subject to cancellation penalties of existing services.

With full payment or partial payment of the tour the climber accepts the latest version of andean summit adventure's terms and conditions, which can be downloaded HERE.

Offer validity:

andean summit adventure reserves the right to adjust the prices, and other terms of this offer if there is a significant change in the relevant market conditions after the date of this offer.

DAY 1 

Pick up in Quito at approx. 07.00 am, drive towards the North of Ecuador (approx. 2,5 hrs). Our target is the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve where we check in. Afterwards we start our hike around the CUICOCHA lagoon. On the way we enjoy a small picknick for lunch and breathtaking views. After completing the hike (approx. 4 hours), we start our journey back to Quito.

tech. data: ↑↓ 650 m  / 2130 ft | ↔ 12,5 km / 7.8 mi

meals: - / LB / -