Chugchilán

Chugchilan is a small Andean village in the county of Sigchos, Provincia Cotopaxi. Because it is more or less in the center of the Quilotoa Loop, it is a great location for hiking and/or horseback riding in the high Andes - with elevations ranging from 8,500 feet to 12,800 feet (2600 to 3800 meters). Nearby natural attractions include high altitude cloud forest in the Iliniza Ecological Reserve, deep canyons of the Rio Toachi and Laguna Quilotoa - a volcanic crater lake. Other attractions are a local Swiss style cheese factory and fine handcarved furniture coop.

Chugchilan is approximately 3 hours from Latacunga either via Zumbahua or via Sigchos. Some of the most comfortable tourist accommodations on this loop are located in the village of Chugchilan and rates range from US$10 to $80 per person, usually including food. Most activities can be arranged with the local lodges.