Cuicocha

Cuicocha is a volcanic crater lake in northern Ecuador. It lies within the Cotacachi-Cayapas Ecological Reserve in Imbabura Province, near the towns of Cotacachi and Ibarra. The lake formed in a caldera created by the eruption of the Cuicocha volcano during the late Pleistocene, and the caldera is about 3 kilometers in diameter. The lake sits at an altitude of roughly 3,000 meters above sea level. In the center of the lake are two small islands, which are prominent features for visitors and wildlife.

The water of Cuicocha is cold and clear, influenced by minerals from the crater walls. The surrounding landscape includes Andean cloud forest and paramo ecosystems, protected as part of the reserve. The area supports diverse birdlife and other high‑altitude fauna, making the site significant for biodiversity in the equatorial Andes. The rims and surrounding slopes provide scenic viewpoints that highlight the dramatic crater walls.

Tourism is the main activity at Cuicocha. Visitors typically take boat tours that circle the caldera and enjoy hiking on rim trails to viewpoints overlooking the lake and islands. The site is a popular day trip from Ibarra or Cotacachi, with local guides and facilities supporting visitors. Access can be temporarily restricted if volcanic gases are detected in the crater, reflecting ongoing monitoring of the volcanic environment.

Conservation: Cuicocha and the surrounding reserve are protected areas within the Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve. The reserve is recognized for its biodiversity and is designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its importance for conservation and sustainable tourism in the Andean region.