Jul 19, 2018 | Written by Patricia Murphy

Ecuador Day 6: Quilotoa

Quilotoa Wow! This was one activity I was really looking forward to. All of the videos and photographs of this crater lake are so stunning I could not wait to lay eyes on it myself. And boy did it deliver! The water is a stunning blue. The hike in is challenging and offers new views at every switchback. We hiked, we kayaked, we laughed, we cried (hiking back up that is!). Then we had a nice lunch at Samay Kirutoa Lodge.

It was a long drive back to Quito, and most of us slept, but we had a HUGE wake-up call, and our scariest moment of the entire trip, when a man strolled into traffic and a whole line of cars had to brake to avoid killing him! It was truly terrifying, and thank goodness for Alex in shotgun and Victor in the driver’s seat for spotting it and stopping in time.

We rested for a moment at the hotel, then chose La Purisima for dinner. I was so glad we did! It had a local vibe, with lots of Ecuodorians having leisurely meals with dessert. The plates (the actual plates) were antique and unique and made us feel homey.  My food was delicious and we tried several appetizers before our entrees and a traditional dessert.

The drive to Quilotoa was stunning.

Terraced farms and small dwellings.

True Andes style.

We arrived at the volcano ready to go.

And immediately took all the photos.

It was windy and cold at the top.

But sunny and gorgeous.

Team Ecuador!

Our guide Victor!

Beautiful views.

Heading down into the crater.

We stayed warm for some time.

Kayaking in the crater.

Beautiful views all around.

Team Kayak!

Crater selfie.

This was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.

The flora was fascinating–a mix of desert and lush.

Alex and Meg.

Shawna and Chad.

John says goodbye to the crater.

Trish in the brush.

So, gin and tonics are a thing in Ecuador.

This was a gorgeous dinner at La Purisima.

Duck pockets.

Ceviche.

Sea bass soup.

Ribs.

Stuffed chicken.

A sweet date dessert.