Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador? If you're planning to go to Laguna Quilotoa, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador

Based on the climate and weather in Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Laguna Quilotoa, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador by month

January

January in this region is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

February

February in this region is cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you are traveling to Laguna Quilotoa in March, you will notice that it is crisp. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in Laguna Quilotoa is cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

May

Traveling to Laguna Quilotoa in May, you will notice that it is chilly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the right type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you are traveling to Laguna Quilotoa in June, you will notice that it can be chilly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

July in this region is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

August

August can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

September

September in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you are traveling to Laguna Quilotoa in October, you will notice that it is chilly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

November

November in Laguna Quilotoa is crisp. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

December

If you go to Laguna Quilotoa in December, you will notice that it is cool. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ecuador has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Laguna Quilotoa. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

What to do in Laguna Quilotoa, Ecuador

Nestled in the Andes Mountains of Ecuador, the Laguna Quilotoa is a magical destination that is quickly gaining popularity among tourists. This emerald-green crater lake, formed inside an inactive volcano, is a breathtaking work of nature and is surrounded by picturesque mountains, indigenous villages and traditional farming communities. The indigenous Kichwa people of the area are known for their warm hospitality, and travelers can experience their unique culture and way of life while exploring the area. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top tourist attractions in Laguna Quilotoa that one simply cannot miss.

1. Quilotoa Crater Lake: The star attraction of the region, the Quilotoa Crater Lake is a dramatic natural wonder formed inside a volcano. The emerald-green color of the water is simply stunning, and its depth reaches over 820 feet in some parts. Visitors can hike down the steep, winding path to reach the shores of the lake, or simply take in the view from the various lookout points located around the rim of the crater. The stunning vista changes throughout the day as the sun casts shadows across the sky, and a visit to the Quilotoa Crater Lake is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences of your trip.

2. Indigenous villages: The region around the Laguna Quilotoa is inhabited by the indigenous Kichwa people who are known for their rich cultural heritage and their connection with nature. Visitors can experience the unique lifestyle and traditions of the Kichwa people by visiting their villages and interacting with them. Many of the villages offer eco-tourism services, traditional handicrafts, and locally sourced food. The Kichwa people are known for their weaving skills, and travelers can watch them at work, learning about the intricate techniques they use to create unique textiles and clothing.

3. Hiking trails: The Laguna Quilotoa region offers some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in all of Ecuador. The area is peppered with well-marked trails that crisscross the rugged terrain, and visitors can choose from trails of varying degrees of difficulty. The most popular trail is the Quilotoa Loop, a 3-day trek that takes visitors through the charming villages, verdant hillsides and rugged canyons of the area. The route offers some of the most stunning vistas of the Quilotoa crater lake and surrounding mountain ranges.

4. Cotopaxi National Park: Just a short drive from the Laguna Quilotoa area lies the Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world's highest active volcanoes. The landscape here is simply awe-inspiring, with towering snow-capped peaks, windswept plateaus, and rolling hills covered in grasses and wildflowers. The park offers hiking trails, mountain biking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities.

5. Traditional markets: The Laguna Quilotoa region is famous for its traditional markets that offer visitors the chance to shop for unique handicrafts, textiles, and other local products. The markets are a vibrant and colorful scene, where sellers haggle over prices and visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture. The markets in Zumbahua and Saquisilí are particularly famous, and visiting these markets is a must-do activity for any traveler to the region.

In conclusion, the Laguna Quilotoa region is a magical destination that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. A trip to this region is sure to be an unforgettable adventure that will leave visitors with memories that will last a lifetime.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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