Mother's Day at Quilotoa

Our Mother/ Daughter trip just happened to actually fall on Mother's Day, so I was hoping to make this day even more special for my mom. We had just returned from the Galapagos Islands, a tough experience to top. After spending a very restful night in Quito at the Quito Go Hotel and gorging ourselves on the largest, most incredible breakfast spread I have ever seen at a hotel (The entire rooftop floor was a walk through of buffet options), we again set off with our Guide Daniel to the highlands, this time heading 3 hours south of Quito to the Cotopaxi area.  I had planned a day visit up to the Quilotoa Volcanic crater lake as a special treat for Mom. Unknown to me, Daniel had also planned a Mother's Day surprise for my mom, organizing a surprise stop at an Ecuadorean Rose farm and a private walkthrough of the greenhouses and gardens. Roses are my mom's favorite, so this was truly an incredible treat. The Greenhouse guide even cut my mom a full bouquet of fresh fragrant roses as we walked the grounds. Ecuadorean roses are famous around the word, and one of Ecuador's largest exports. They are known for their heartiness, fragrance and range of colors, due to the specific high elevation and climate they are grown in. It was fascinating to learn about!

We continued on with our scenic drive through the Andean countryside, where the dramatic landscapes shifted from lush valleys to towering volcanic mountains. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of Quilotoa Lake, its vibrant turquoise waters framed by steep volcanic walls.

Daniel prepped us for walking at the very high elevation (12,000 ft) and took us for a slow paced hike around part of the rim of the crater. Along the way, giving us insight into the area’s geology and cultural significance. The high altitude presented just a slight challenge, but the crisp mountain air and stunning views kept us motivated. We purchased some hot chocolate from one of the local cafes for an energy boost while Daniel shared fascinating stories about the lake’s formation and the legends from indigenous cultures that call this region home.

After our hike, we indulged in some delicious local cuisine in the village at Quilotoa. We savored hearty dishes made from fresh, local potatoes and herbs that showcased the flavors of the high Andes. It was a delightful way to recharge after our hike and before we continued on to Hacienda el Porvenir, where we would be taking a cooking lesson and spending out last evening together in the Highlands. 

The entire experience at Quilotoa allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in high Andean culture. The warmth and hospitality of the local people, combined with the stunning natural beauty of the lake, made for a memorable day. As we stood at the rim of the crater, looking out over the shimmering waters, we felt a profound connection to this incredible landscape.