Cuicocha is a volcanic crater lake near the town of Cotacachi, north of Quito, and it is a natural companion to a day at the Otavalo market. The lake fills a collapsed caldera on the slope of Cotacachi volcano, and its deep blue water is dotted with two small islands, which gave the lake its name, loosely translated as guinea pig lake after the shape of the islands. A scenic path follows part of the rim, with viewpoints that reveal the lake framed by steep green walls and, on clear days, the snowy summits of neighbouring volcanoes. Small boats offer short trips around the islands, and the surrounding reserve is home to Andean birds and plants. Local communities have long regarded the lake as a sacred place, and it remains part of the cultural landscape of the Kichwa people who live nearby. A day tour from Quito typically starts in the market at Otavalo, where weavers and traders sell textiles and crafts, and then moves to the lake in the afternoon, which gives a satisfying mix of culture and nature.
Why go
The lake is beautiful and uncrowded compared with the busier highland sights, and its setting is both wild and approachable. The rim viewpoints give a sense of scale, and the shifting light on the water makes it a good place for photographs. The landscape feels very different from the colonial streets of the capital, and the relaxed pace is a pleasant contrast.
How the visit works
Most visitors arrive on a full-day tour that includes the market at Otavalo and the lake, as in the day trip linked here, which also visits the surrounding area. Expect a drive of about two hours each way from Quito, with the market in the morning and the lake in the afternoon.
Private tours allow more flexibility, and some include lunch at a local restaurant. If you are travelling independently, buses run from Quito to Otavalo and Cotacachi, and taxis or local transport can take you the rest of the way to the lake.
Walking and boating
The rim trail is a rewarding walk, though it is long and best attempted with a guide or good information on the current route. A shorter option is simply to walk to the main viewpoint and then take a boat trip around the islands. Boat arrangements and times may vary, so ask on arrival. The altitude is around 3,000 metres, so take it slowly.
Culture and shopping
Cotacachi is known for leather goods, and its main street is lined with shops selling bags, jackets and shoes. Combining the lake with a visit to the leather town and the weavers of Otavalo makes for a full day with plenty of souvenir opportunities. Look for textiles woven by local families, and be prepared to bargain politely at the market.
Good to know
Weather in the mountains changes quickly, so bring layers and a rain jacket, and wear comfortable walking shoes. Saturday is the busiest day at the Otavalo market, so plan accordingly.
Making the most of it
If the lake is your main goal, ask a private operator to start with the market early and reach the rim before the afternoon clouds gather. Pack a snack and water for the rim walk, because food options near the viewpoint are limited, and keep a little cash handy for boat rides and market purchases.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day trip north of Quito that pairs the Otavalo market with a visit to a crater lake, with viewpoints, a rim walk and optional boat trips.
Best time
Mornings for clearer views, and Saturdays if you want the biggest market, though it will be busier.
How long
A full day, with roughly two hours of driving each way.
Tips
Bring layers and a rain jacket, wear comfortable walking shoes and take it slowly at around 3,000 metres.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a mix of culture and landscape in a single day.
- Families
- The viewpoint and boat trip are easy for children, though the full day involves a lot of driving.
- Couples
- A quiet walk along the rim after the bustle of the market is a pleasant change of pace.
- Pair with
- Otavalo Market, which sits on the same route, and Mindo on another day.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How is Cuicocha usually visited?+
Most visitors combine it with the Otavalo market on a full-day tour from Quito, with the market in the morning and the lake in the afternoon.
Can I walk around the lake?+
A rim trail circles part of the lake and gives excellent views. It is long, so check the current route and allow plenty of time, or walk to the main viewpoint only.
Are there boat trips?+
Small boats offer short trips around the islands. Times and arrangements can vary, so ask when you arrive.
What does the name mean?+
It is often translated as guinea pig lake, after the shape of the two islands in the middle of the water.
What else can I do nearby?+
Cotacachi is known for leather goods, and Otavalo for its textile market, so both make easy additions to the day.
