🌕 FULL MOON EXPERIENCE – QUILOTOA CRATER TREK UNDER THE MOONLIGHT

Why is this trek unlike any other?

Picture yourself hiking to the rim of the Quilotoa Crater just as the full moon rises, casting its silver light over the Andean landscape. The silence, the cool highland breeze, and the reflection on the lagoon below create a mystical, soul-stirring experience you’ll never forget.

🔥 Most Popular Full Moon Departures – Limited Spots
These departures offer the best weather, trekking conditions, and availability.
Book now to secure your place — only one departure per month.

🗓️ 2026 Full Moon Departures – Timed to Perfection

These dates are carefully planned so that we arrive at the Quilotoa Crater on the exact night of the full moon:

Special 4-Day / 3-Night Itinerary

Day 1 – Quito → Isinliví
Private transport from Quito. Scenic drive through the Andes. Overnight in a cozy mountain lodge with fireplace and views.

Day 2 – Trek Isinliví → Chugchilán
5–6 hour hike through remote valleys, canyons, and traditional Andean villages. Overnight in Chugchilán.

Day 3 – Trek Chugchilán → Quilotoa Crater (Full Moon Hike)
We begin the trek in the late afternoon, reaching the rim at sunset to witness the full moon rising over the crater. Reflective moment under the stars. Overnight in Quilotoa.

Day 4 – Crater Views → Return to Quito
Optional morning walk to the lagoon. Time to enjoy viewpoints and coffee before returning to Quito.

What’s Included

• Roundtrip private transport from Quito

• 3 nights of local guesthouse accommodation

• All meals during the trek

• Professional bilingual trekking guide

• Full moon logistics and timing coordination

• Special reflective activity at the summit

Who is this for?

• Adventure seekers craving a deeper connection with nature

• Spiritual travelers drawn to moon cycles and mountain energy

• Hikers who want something rare and unforgettable

ITINERARY:

Hike through unique Andean landscapes and small indigenous villages. Routes: Insilivi – Chugchilán, Chugchilan – Quilotoa, Quilotoa crater descent, Toachi River canyon, Insilivi, Tigua community known for bright paintings of Andean life, Zumbahua Indian Market.

This tour offers day trips ranging from 1 to 6 days in the Andes. The hikes vary from 4 to 6 hours per day, and you can choose from easy to challenging hikes or opt for a relaxing day in the comfortable and cozy mountain lodges.

4-Days/3-Nights Uphill Quilotoa Loop Guided Trek

If you’re seeking a captivating experience in the Ecuadorian Andes, we highly recommend visiting the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. You can opt for a day trip or explore the area over several days, including Quilotoa, Chugchilán, and Isinliví. If you’re up for a longer adventure, this 4-day uphill trek from Sigchos to Quilotoa offers a rewarding challenge with unforgettable landscapes and cultural immersion. You'll also pass through the Cloud Forest, visit local cheese and chocho (Andean bean) producers, and discover the traditional art of the Tigua community.

Day 1: Quito – Isinliví

We begin our journey in the morning with a scenic drive along the Panamericana highway through the Avenue of the Volcanoes. If weather permits, enjoy spectacular views of Cotopaxi Volcano. After about 2 hours, we reach Guingopana Pass, where we begin a short 2-hour trek (approx. 3 km) to the village of Isinliví to start acclimatizing.

• Meals: Lunch and Dinner
   

• Accommodation: Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge
   

Day 2: Trek Isinliví to Chugchilán

After breakfast, we set off on a scenic trek through the highlands. Today’s route includes a mix of ascents and descents, passing through traditional hamlets, valleys, and farmland along the Toachi River. After a descent into the canyon, we climb steadily for 5–6 hours (approx. 11 km) until we reach the vibrant town of Chugchilán (3,200 m), home to both mestizo and Indigenous communities.

• Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, and Dinner
   

• Accommodation: Mama Hilda or similar
   

Day 3: Trek Chugchilán to Quilotoa

Today’s trek takes us from Chugchilán to the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake. We descend to the Toachi River, then ascend through the Rio Sigui Canyon to reach Guayama town for a short break. The path continues through Andean crops and communities, culminating in an epic arrival at the Quilotoa rim (3,800 m), where we are greeted by panoramic views of the emerald-colored lake inside the volcanic crater.

• Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch, and Dinner
   

• Accommodation: Chukirawa Hostel
   

Day 4: Quilotoa Lagoon Trek & Tigua Art Workshop – Return to Quito

After breakfast, choose between two activities:

• Hike down to the crater lake and go kayaking, with the option to hike or ride a horse back up.
   

• For a more challenging option, hike part of the crater rim.
   

Later, enjoy a traditional highland lunch, followed by a visit to the Tigua community, renowned for its colorful paintings and crafts representing Andean life and landscapes. In the afternoon, we return to Quito.

• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
   

• End of Services