VISIT SHALALA AND QUILOTOA VIEW POINT (Mirador)

The Shalala and Quilotoa view point is a beautiful wooden platform where you can see the Quilotoa crater. The platform is part of the most demonstrative work of the year within the Spanish-speaking countries. The mirador plataform was built to increase tourism at the Shalala community, with the support of the Ministery of tourism. The the Shalala and Quilotoa view point was constructed at the superior edge of the crater. The mirador structure allows the uninterrupted view of the surroundings crater and lake.

HIKE QUILOTOA LOOP

A 30 minute to one hour hike takes you to the base of the Quilotoa loop (crater lake), where you can relax watching the amazing turquoise lake, sierra vegetation, jagged peaks and enjoy kayaking. Then hike up takes approximately one hour and a half –  two hours or you can rent donkeys to skip the steep part.

LOCAL MARKET

Ecuadorian local markets are very famous and great to be part of it. Don’t miss the chance to take part of the Quilotoa loop one day tour.

Saquisili market

Every Thursday indigenous vendors from all over the Andean mountains come to the market to sell pots, animals, colorful blend textile, livestock, food, and herbal remedies. This traditional market exists since Pre-Colombian times.

Pujili market

Every Sunday indigenous people from surrounding villages and towns come to this market to sell variety trades and traditional craft. Market goods include clay pottery, ceramic goods, ropes, dishes, and  clocks; all are sold to provide a meager living for their families.

Zumbahua market

Zumbahua is a small town about 14 kilometers north of Quilotoa Loop. In the market you can find Tigua painters who create colorful pictures of the indigenous living style. There are typical baskets, junco masks, and other handicrafts. But they also sell llamas, horses and other animals!  Zumbahua market is open every Saturday.