This medium mountain ascent in the Ecuadorian Andes offers an accessible yet rewarding hiking experience combining physical challenge with mindful wellness. The route takes you around the iconic Quilotoa volcanic crater, blending active exploration with gentle yoga, stretching, and mindfulness practices to refresh both body and mind.
The day begins with transport to Quilotoa, where you'll start your hike around the crater rim. The trail provides panoramic views of the lake and neighbouring volcanoes, following paths that are moderately challenging but manageable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Throughout the hike, guided mindfulness techniques help maintain focus and calm, including breathing exercises and gentle movement to promote flexibility and relaxation.
Along the way, nutritious snacks and natural drinks are provided to keep energy levels steady. The pace is balanced to allow time for soaking in the scenery and engaging with wellness sessions that include yoga and stretching. The experience finishes with a deep relaxation period designed to integrate the day’s activity and leave a lasting sense of calm and wellbeing before returning to your starting point.
Quilotoa is a volcanic crater lake located in the Ecuadorian Andes, known for its striking turquoise water and dramatic surrounding peaks. The area is accessible from Quito and is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The trail circles the crater rim, providing a full 360-degree perspective of the landscape including distant volcanoes and Andean valleys. The altitude ranges between 3,900 and 4,000 metres, offering fresh mountain air and clear skies.
This region combines natural beauty with cultural interest, as nearby villages offer a glimpse of traditional Ecuadorian mountain life. Weather can be changeable, so preparation for cold, wind, and sun is essential. The surrounding environment supports a variety of flora and fauna typical of high-altitude ecosystems.
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness and some previous hiking experience to manage the altitude and distance comfortably. While technical climbing equipment is not required, being acclimatised to high altitude will improve comfort and safety during the ascent.
It is also recommended to prepare by training with aerobic exercise and practising basic mindfulness or breathing exercises beforehand. Participants must be equipped with appropriate layered clothing, sturdy mountain boots, and sun protection to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
This operation brings together local knowledge and international expertise to provide authentic experiences across South America. With 12 years in the business, the team specialises in combining adventure with cultural and wellness elements, ensuring trips are not only active but also restorative. Their multilingual operators based in Quito coordinate carefully planned tours to maximise safety and enjoyment.
The company focuses on sustainable and responsible travel, aiming to connect visitors with nature and local communities while respecting environmental and cultural heritage. Their strong presence across Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia means they offer comprehensive support and unique insights into some of South America’s most compelling destinations.
This medium mountain ascent requires a reasonable level of fitness and some prior hiking experience, particularly at altitude. The trail is moderately challenging with uneven terrain and elevation changes around 3,900 to 4,000 metres above sea level.
Participants should be comfortable walking several hours at a steady pace with breaks included. Regular aerobic exercise and some experience in mountain hiking are advisable to fully enjoy the day without excessive fatigue.
Specialised climbing equipment is not required for this medium mountain ascent, as the trail does not involve technical climbing sections. However, appropriate hiking boots with ankle support and layered technical clothing are essential due to variable mountain weather conditions.
Other recommended items include a headlamp, helmet, sunglasses with high UV protection, sunscreen, and a backpack to carry water and snacks. The guide will provide safety advice before departure.
Mindfulness and yoga sessions are integrated at regular intervals along the trail to complement the physical activity. These sessions include guided breathing exercises and gentle stretching aimed at improving flexibility and mental focus while reducing stress.
This combination helps deepen the connection with the natural surroundings and promotes a calm, balanced state of mind throughout the hike. All activities are accessible for participants of varying experience levels in yoga and meditation.
You should bring layered clothing suitable for mountain conditions, including a thermal base layer, fleece insulation, and waterproof windproof outerwear. Warm hat, gloves, and neck protection are also important.
A sturdy backpack to carry your personal items, water bottle, sunscreen, snacks, and any medications is recommended. Comfortable hiking boots with good grip and ankle support are essential for safety on the crater rim trail.
Participants are encouraged to acclimatise in Quito or other high-altitude locations before the hike. Hydration, proper nutrition, and pacing during the hike help minimise altitude sickness symptoms.
The guide monitors all participants for signs of altitude-related discomfort and can adjust the pace or recommend resting as needed. Personal medications and first aid kits are advised for those prone to altitude sickness.
Children aged 8 and older are welcome to participate, provided they have a suitable level of fitness and are comfortable walking at altitude. The moderate difficulty of the trail makes it accessible for active youngsters.
Parents or guardians must ensure children are properly equipped with appropriate clothing and footwear, and that they understand the importance of following safety guidelines throughout the hike.
About the centre
Quito, Ecuador
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