Cuicocha crater lake

Known also as the “Lake of the Gods” it is located 12 km Southwest of Cotacachi at 3.068 m / 10.250 ft. It was the maximum sanctuary for the religious cult of the local inhabitants, and it is one of the few provincial crater-lakes.

Cuicocha lake has a scenic lookout point, this is located on the high part of the crater rim around Lake Cuicocha, and from here the panoramic view gives over almost all of the Imbabura Valley: Lago San Pablo, Otavalo, the Mojanda peaks and Atuntaqui.
 
The lake sports two islands, Teodoro Wolf and Yerovi, separated by the Ensueño canal. This lake is apt for sea-kayaking, powerboat cruises and even high altitude scuba. The lake also has a loop trail, Gorky Campusano, apt for a 4-5 hour fairly strenuous hike.