Ultimate Packing List for the Quilotoa Loop, Ecuador
The 3-day Quilotoa Loop is the most popular trek in Ecuador, and it still has its rightful place among the best hikes we've done in South America. We've created this ultimate packing list to help you figure out what you need to pack and what is better to leave behind. What to pack for Quilotoa Loop? Let's find out.
Hiking is our favorite way how to explore the country. Therefore, Quilotoa Loop Trek in Ecuador was like a dream for us.
Our outdoor adventures allow us to escape bustling and dusty cities and leave touts and pushy taxi drivers behind.
Hiking through rural landscapes, lush greenery, climbing up hills and mountains, overcoming challenges along the way, and first of all, interacting with local people is liberating.
This is exactly what we have experienced on the Quilotoa Loop, the most popular multi-day trek in Ecuador among backpackers and budget travelers.
Although we for sure had enjoyed a few days in Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, biking down Chimborazo, the highest peak of Ecuador, cloud forest in Mindo, or hiking in Cajas National Park, our time spent on the Quilotoa Loop was a bit different.
Soothing, tranquil, and accompanied with splendid views. The feeling of being far from the civilization was mostly appreciated.
Before you plunge in this packing guide, read our two full comprehensive posts about this fantastic trek - A Comprehensive Guide to Quilotoa Loop Trek and 16 Reasons and Things to Know Before Hiking Quilotoa Loop.
But in this post, we want to focus on things you need to pack and what to leave behind.
PACKING GUIDE
We sometimes struggle when it comes to packing, and it does not matter how many one or multi-day hikes we've done before.
That's why we've created this packing list for the Quilotoa Loop - it is necessary to know that you will carry all your belongings on your back, so it is essential to pack light and smart.
This post includes our tried and tested tips on what to pack for Quilotoa Loop, which will help you to pack everything you need for every type of weather, but at the same time, you will avoid the danger of overpacking.
Before jumping directly to the packing checklist, there are two important factors to consider.
HOW MANY DAYS FOR THE QUILOTOA LOOP
Before you start your hiking adventure (and packing), you need to decide how many days you want to hike the Quilotoa Loop.
The full route is 38 kilometers long, and you can spend hiking the trek for anything from two to five days, depending on your level of fitness and travel style.
Even though Quilotoa Crater can be visited from Latacunga on a one-day trip, we believe that you've decided to hike the multi-day version of the Quilotoa Loop.
The most classic route takes travelers three days to finish, but you can also start the hike a bit further (in Isinlivi instead of Sigchos), skip the first day, and make it to the end of Quilotoa Loop in two days only.
We hiked the Quilotoa Loop for three days, but there is not much difference in packing if you go hiking for two or five days as you need to be prepared for all types of weather conditions.
WEATHER ON THE QUILOTOA LOOP
Generally, you can hike the Quilotoa Loop all year round. Being said that, weather on the Quilotoa Loop is hard to predict.
The combination of the altitude (Quilotoa Crater lies 3800 meters above sea level) and unstable weather means that you need to pack a bit of everything to feel comfortable - layers, layers, and again layers is the rule number one.
Nights and mornings are often chilly, while afternoons are hot and windy.
The dry season in Ecuador runs from June to September (we did the hike in late September, and the weather was merciful to us without a single rainy day), while the summer season, during which you can expect more rain showers, lasts from November to March.
Fall and spring are short and can turn either way.
PACKING LIST FOR THE QUILOTOA LOOP
Because this hike requires that you carry everything you need for the next three days on your back, we recommend you to pack as light as possible.
If you travel to Ecuador only for a short vacation, it is good to know which places you want to visit and write a list of things you need to pack for every activity.
If you travel long-term, you will likely have already in your backpack everything you need, and on the contrary, you will have to leave a few things behind.
Here's what you should pack for our favorite multi-day hike in Ecuador, Quilotoa Loop.
Rucksack | If you can, leave your big travel backpack in Latacunga and pack all stuff into a smaller and comfortable one. A 40-liter backpack per person should be sufficient enough.
T-Shirt | When hiking, it was really very hot most of the time from 10 AM to 4 PM. Pack two functional t-shirts with you for the three days hike.
T-Shirt with Long Sleeves | Mornings and evenings are chilly on the Quilotoa Loop, so pack two functional t-shirts. We use them as an additional layer and always try to keep one t-shirt clean for sleeping and free time in the hostel.
Leggings | When it's cold, I prefer to hike in leggings while Martin brings his as an extra layer just in case. He usually wears them under shorts when it is cold. You can also sleep in them.
Shorts | Although in the mountains, afternoons are usually warm in Ecuador, and we always prefer to wear shorts when it is not too cold.
Hiking Pants | It is always better to have extra layers to strip off rather than to be cold; that's our rule of thumb, that's why we always have hiking trousers with us.
Rain Pants | If the weather forecast looks unpromising, we recommend packing rain pants that you can quickly pull over your hiking pants.
Fleece Jacket | Fleece jacket is useful when in the hostel or when you decide to take a break during the hike - the cold wind can make you feel uncomfortable within a minute.
Rain Jacket | A proper rain and waterproof jacket is a must-have when hiking in the mountains. The weather can change there any minute.
Down Jacket | No matter how light we want to pack, we hate to feel the cold. That's why we always have a down jacket with us - it is incredibly useful when you stop hiking or when you want to feel cozy in the hostel. And it's super light.
Rain Poncho | During the downpours, we take out the classic rain poncho, which covers backpacks as well. It might sound old-fashioned, but we actually haven't yet found clothing that would work better.
Hiking Boots | If you need to buy new hiking shoes before your trip to Ecuador, try to break them before walking the Quilotoa Loop. Sturdy shoes with good soles are a must.
Hiking Socks | It is important to have at least one pair of dry hiking socks for every day to prevent blisters. And yes, your regular socks are not good for hiking.
Underwear | We prefer wearing functional underwear for hiking.
Sports Bra | Obviously, for girls only.
Trekking Poles | Carrying hiking poles depends on if you are used to them or not. It is not that necessary as on the Inca Trail because the trail is not that hard, but I always find them useful. Especially in the high altitude.
Sunglasses | You need to keep your eyes protected at all times because the sun in the mountains is strong.
Gloves | Check the weather forecast and if it is going to be chilly, pack gloves with you.
Multifunctional Headwear | You can take either warm hat or hat against the sun, whatever works better for you. Being said that, we usually use multifunctional headwear as it works great also against dust.
Sneakers | We always prefer to change shoes so we do not wear our (wet) hiking shoes in the hostel. Also, flip-flops are perfectly fine for Quilotoa Loop.
TOILETRIES
When it comes to toiletries, try to pack as little as possible. No one expects you to look glamorous on the trek!
Because we stayed in hostels in private rooms along the Quilotoa Loop, we did not pack with us soap or travel towel because it was provided.
Toothpaste | Bamboo Toothbrush | Wet Wipes | Hand Sanitizer | Manicure Set | Travel Comb | Here are essential items for your toiletries packing list. If you prefer to use your favorite brand of toiletries such as shampoo or conditioner, keep in mind that it is an extra weight in your backpack.
Glasses | Contact Lenses | Multi-Purpose Solution | In case you wear contacts or glasses.
Sunscreen | Sun on the equator is strong. Having a good sunscreen with high SPF is a must.
Lip Balm With Sunscreen | We always also bring it otherwise our lips are a mess because of the sun and wind.
Bug Repellent | It depends on the time of the year, but we would say it's optional.
GEAR
Here is our take on what you need for Quilotoa Loop. Once again, don't overthink it. It's only for three days.
Folding Knife | You only need a lightweight knife for hiking in the wilderness.
Silk Liner | Accommodation on the Quilotoa Loop was considerably clean, but we also bring cocoon alias silk liner just in case. We also use it as an additional layer when it is cold at night. This item is optional.
Duct Tape | When your backpack or boots break down, duct tape might do the magic.
Headtorch | We did not do any hiking early in the morning or late at night still, headtorch is a thing we never set on a hike in the mountains without.
First-Aid Kit | Quilotoa Loop is quite remote, so it is wise to carry your own first-aid kit altogether with the personal medicaments you use daily.
ELECTRONICS
Hostels along the Quilotoa Loop have electricity and wi-fi, so you don't need to bring with you your power bank.
When packing electronics, valuables, and other useful equipment, make sure you have the following:
iPhone | We love Maps.me app and found it essential to have a good map on the phone because the trail was not always clear.
Phone Cover | When you use your phone as a camera, take a phone cover because you will take it out of your pocket too often. I broke mine on the way to Laguna Paron.
GPS Watch | Smartwatch can track your activities, and you can find it useful for outdoor adventures.
Kindle | If you like to read in the evening, Kindle will make a great companion.
PHOTO GEAR
Bring only a compact and light travel camera for hiking. If you use only a smartphone for taking pictures, skip this part.
Canon EOS M6 Mark II | Light, compact, with great ergonomics and excellent image quality.
Battery Charger | Charge your camera (and other devices) every evening. Make it a habit!
Batteries | It's always better to have a spare battery in your pocket.
SD Cards | Bring extra memory cards. Believe us. Nature around Quilotoa is so beautiful that you will need them.
WHERE TO STAY ON QUILOTOA LOOP
Quilotoa Loop offers a perfect backpacking experience, and one of the best things is that you'll find several hostels in every settlement along the way that offers decent services.
Actually, we were more than happy with our rooms, the same as the food in restaurants.
Here is our tip on where to stay on Quilotoa Loop.
Sigchos: Not many travelers stay in Sigchos. It is a village where we started, and if you hike in the opposite direction, you will likely want to get to civilization. But just in case, check out this basic hostel, Starlight Inn.
Isinlivi: We stayed in pleasant Hostal Taita Cristobal, or there is another and more popular option with jacuzzi Hostal Llulu Lama.
Chugchilan: There are a few reasonable accommodations in this village. We decided on Hostal Cloud Forest, but other excellent lodgings such as Hostal El Vaquero are available.
Quilotoa: The most touristy village of all, because visitors can get there directly by bus from Latacunga. Prices are also a bit higher, and not all hotels include breakfast and dinner in the rate. Check out Hostal Chukirawa.
WATER ON THE QUILOTOA LOOP
Unfortunately, it's not possible to drink tap water in Ecuador. In order to reduce your plastic footprint, buy SteriPen.
Or consider purchasing this personal water filter.
Otherwise, you can buy water in your hostel or small shops along the way so you can fill your water bottle or camel bag.
Regardless of your choice, drink a lot of water during the day. Staying hydrated when hiking, especially at a high altitude, is really important.
FOOD & SNACKS
We did not take any snacks with us besides some bananas and energy bars for the first day.
We had an early lunch in Sigchos and later ate only in the hostels. We always had breakfast and dinner included in the room rate (it is a standard) and asked for a packed lunch for the next day, so you don't need to worry that you'll be hungry on the Quilotoa Loop.
To get some extra energy, we found these energy bars perfect for hiking.
It is possible to buy snacks in small stores in Sigchos, Isinlivi, Chugchilan, or Quilotoa.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We never leave our country without proper insurance, and even though it might sound a bit strict, we think you should not leave without travel insurance as well.
Simply put, you never know what will happen, and it is better to protect yourself from elements you cannot influence.
You will surely meet many strayed dogs on the trail, you might get sick because of the altitude, or your valuables can get stolen on the bus.
Although we sincerely hope your trip will be successful, this is only a shortlist of situations when you can find the insurance helpful.
Quilotoa Loop will take you through the rural countryside of Ecuador, and having a reliable travel insurance is essential!
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
MONEY
There is no ATM on Quilotoa Loop, so do not forget to take enough cash with you. You will need to pay for your transport, accommodation, and food - three days and two nights cost us roughly $100 for two people.
One of the things to know before traveling to Ecuador is that you often won't get far with a credit card, and basically, one of the most important things to pack for Quilotoa Loop is US dollar bills.
Make sure you have smaller coins and bills.
HOTELS & BAGGAGE STORAGE
Unless you want to train to be a porter, it is more than likely that you will need to store your belongings, which you do not want to carry with you along the Quilotoa Loop.
One of the best places to store your backpack is Latacunga, the nearest big city to Quilotoa, where you can also spend a night before and after the hike.
There are several hotels and hostels in Latacunga where you can safely store your valuables and belongings.
We've handpicked three accommodations in Latacunga for every budget where you can stay and leave your stuff while you'll be hiking the Quilotoa Loop.
Budget: Hostal Cafe Tiana | Mid-range: Hotel Llactacunga | Luxury: Hotel San Agustin Plaza
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
