Laguna Cuicocha

Cuicocha Lake is in an old volcanic crater outside of Cotacachi, Ecuador.

At its base its over 3300 meters above sea level, and the highest point of the trail is at 3500 meters! The volcano neighboring the lake is called Cumbre Volcán Cotacachi and at its peak is almost 5000 meters, and Volcán Imbabura casts its shadow over the town from the other side.

At 12 km around the hike itself wasn't terribly long but at this altitude the vert was really a challenge. We stopped to catch our breath often but there were almost 360 views of the 2 islands in the lake and we didn't mind taking a break to take it in.

Great day, great hike, if you're ever in the area be sure to check it out!Read more