Hiking Lake Cuicocha

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Lake Cuicocha is a picturesque lake in the northern mountains of Ecuador. There is a relatively easy, beautiful hike here that goes all the way around the lake. I highly recommend this even if you aren’t the greatest hiker or if you are training to do some hikes in the higher altitudes of South America. The Lake Cuicocha hike varies from 3100 to 3500 metres above sea level as you go around and takes 4-5 hours at a very slow pace.

Top Tip for Lake Cuicocha:

Take it easy! Theres no rush to get to where you are going here. Start early in the day if you are worried about your fitness levels and you will definitely make it around the lake before dark. The signs on site say the hike takes 4-5 hours but we easily did it in 3.5 hours with LOTS of picture stops and rest breaks. Chill out in the serene landscape.

Where to stay:

We stayed in Otavalo as we wanted to see the indigenous market here but you could also stay in Cotacachi which is closer to the lake. We recommend We recommend Hostal La Rosa in Otavalo which you can book through Booking.com. It is very centrally located and comfortable.

Getting there and away:

You can get to Lake Cuicocha by taking a bus from Otavalo bus station to Cotocachi which is nearer the lake. Once in Cotocachi you can take a taxi to the lake for approx. $7 USD one way. You can arrange for the taxi to come back when you have finished the hike but lots of taxi’s frequent the area so it shouldn’t be a problem if you don’t have one arranged to pick you up. The whole trip from Otavalo to the lake should only take an hour or so. Just do this in reverse to get back to Otavalo.

Getting around:

I suggest trekking clockwise around the lake as the trailhead starts about 2km up the road from the visitors centre where the taxi will drop you off and the last thing you want to do is walk along a road with no view at the end of your long hike. but either way is fine!

Food:

Take food with you – there is a restaurant at the trailhead but most likely you will want to picnic on your way and take in the incredible views. Plus its always key to take snacks and water with you in case you are hiking longer than expected.

What to expect:

A nice easy hike with great views of the lake and the mountains beyond – well worth an afternoon’s adventure. Enjoy!

Erika xx