Part of our Ecuador guide.
Hiking in Ecuador takes you from a crater lake near Otavalo to trails in the Amazon jungle. The two hikes below cover a day trip from the highlands and a multi-day Amazon experience.
Laguna De Cuicocha - A Beautiful Day Hike From Otavalo
Laguna de Cuicocha is a crater lake inside the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve, a short drive from Otavalo. The lake's name means "Lake of the Guinea Pigs" in Kichwa, and its turquoise water and two volcanic islands make it a straightforward day hike. The loop trail around the rim takes about four to five hours and gives you views of the lake and the surrounding peaks. It's one of the easiest high-altitude hikes in the region, with the trailhead at roughly 3,100 meters. Pack layers and water; the weather can shift quickly. If you are basing yourself in Otavalo, you can combine this hike with a morning at the local market. For more on the region, see our guide to things to do in Quito, Ecuador and the Quito travel guide for planning a day trip north.
Hiking, Monkeys, And The Devil's Penis In Ecuador's Amazon Jungle
In the Ecuadorian Amazon, trails lead to a rock formation known locally as the Devil's Penis, a phallic-shaped outcrop that draws hikers into the jungle. The hike starts from a lodge or community near the town of Puyo or along the Río Napo, depending on your access point. Expect muddy paths, hanging bridges, and frequent sightings of monkeys—howler monkeys and squirrel monkeys are common. The full hike to the Devil's Penis takes about three to four hours round trip, with a guide recommended for safety and to spot wildlife. The Amazon basin here sits at low elevation, around 300 to 400 meters, so humidity is high and rain is likely. Bring insect repellent, waterproof boots, and a change of clothes. This area also connects to countries border Ecuador for overland routes into Peru, and if you're planning a longer stay, check our page on beach towns and coastal highlights in Ecuador for a contrast to the jungle. For a completely different kind of outdoor adventure, look into exploring the Pululahua volcano and a hotel perched on its rim near Quito.
