Hike Around the Cuicocha Crater Lake

LTE-QTP008 (Option 1): Hike Around Cuichocha
Cuicocha is part of the Ecological Reserve Cotacachi-Cayapas, which is at an altitude of 3,064 m. This reserve is a pleasure for every nature lover. The bright blue colored lake is located inside a volcanic crater under the skirts of the Cotacachi volcano. The beautiful scenery is enhanced by the local flora composed of miniature orchids and other Andean flowers. The possibility of spotting local animals includes sightings of fox, llamas, Andean ducks and even the majestic Condor. After hiking, you will have the optional opportunity to take a short cruise around the islets found in the lake.
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Meet / Depart Cotacachi – Ecuador     Includes Private Transportation English Speaking Guide Guided hike around Cuicocha Lake   Not Included Cruise around Cuicocha lake $1.20 pp min. 7 people Anything not specified   Cuicocha Crater Lake A volcanic eruption caused the dome of the Cuicocha to collapse inward; its glacier melted and formed a lake within the new giant crater. The Crater Lake is located at 3.064m altitude and its waters are blue green. There are two islets formed of 3 lava domes.	Detailed Itinerary (Full Day) This 5-hour hike will give you the opportunity to view a variety of Andean flora and fauna surrounding the lake and its unique landscape.                            The lake, with its beautiful crystal waters, has two small islands created by volcanic domes, and has a depth of approximately 200 m. With a clear sky during the trek, you will be able to see the snow-capped peaks of the volcanoes Cayambe, Cotopaxi and the craters of Cotacachi and Imbabura. You will start your hike at 3,100 m and you will reach a viewpoint at 3,500 m - from this point onwards you will descend to the level of the lake.  What to Bring Passport, comfortable walking shoes/tennis shoes, warm clothing, windbreaker, rain ponchos in winter months, hat or cap, plastic water bottle, sun-block, sunglasses, waterproof small backpack, camera with high and low speed film, cash or travellers checks.	Highlights Snow Capped Volcanoes and Mountains Incredible scenery, including views of Cotacachi (4966 m /16300 ft.), Imbabura (4650m/15 255ft.), Cayambe (5790m/19 000ft.), and Cotopaxi (5.898m/ 19 350ft.) Volcanoes. (Note: Cotopaxi means neck of the moon in the indigenous language). Cuicocha Crater Lake Cuicocha (lake of the guinea pigs by its indigenous name) is a remote, gorgeous spot with 200m deep clear water. Created by a volcanic eruption about 3100 years ago, it is located in the Cuicocha Volcano at an altitude of 3.200m. Andean Flora and Fauna You will find miniature orchids and other Andean flowers within the reserve, and there are Andean foxes, deer, spectacled bears and even the Andean condor.
If you are interested in going on this trip, please send us a message using the form below. Your name * Your Email * Your Phone Number * *Required Trip Start Date (Estimated) Trip End Date (Estimated) Number of people travelling Message Please drag the box open and fill in your message IMPORTANT: We reserve the right to modify the itinerary - due to weather conditions, etc. - in the best interest of our clients.