7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Valle de Los Chillos

Valle de Los Chillos, nestled in the picturesque Andean foothills near Quito, Ecuador, is a haven for digital nomads seeking a blend of serene landscapes and suburban convenience. While the valley offers a peaceful environment for productivity, the weekends are a perfect time to explore the surrounding areas. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, the region boasts a variety of destinations that cater to all tastes. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply in need of a relaxing escape, these seven weekend getaways provide the perfect respite from your work routine.

Quilotoa Crater Lake

Quilotoa Crater Lake is a stunning natural wonder that's a must-visit for anyone in the Valle de Los Chillos area. The turquoise waters of this volcanic crater lake are a sight to behold, and the surrounding area offers excellent hiking opportunities. You can trek around the rim of the crater for breathtaking views or descend to the lake's edge for a closer look. Kayaking is also available for those who want to explore the waters.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Quilotoa Crater Lake is by car or bus. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours from Valle de Los Chillos.

Travel Tip: Make sure to acclimatize to the altitude before attempting any strenuous hikes, as the crater sits at over 3,900 meters above sea level.

Where to Stay: Hostal Chukirawa offers a comfortable stay with stunning views of the lake, while Quilotoa Crater Lake Hotel provides a more upscale experience.

Where to Eat: Café Taita Cristobal at the crater rim serves traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a view that's hard to beat.

Baños de Agua Santa

Baños de Agua Santa, commonly known as Baños, is a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure. This small town is famous for its thermal baths, waterfalls, and adventure sports like bungee jumping and zip-lining. The Tungurahua volcano looms nearby, offering a dramatic backdrop for your weekend getaway. Don't miss the chance to ride the famous "Swing at the End of the World" at La Casa del Árbol.

How to Get There: Baños is about a 3-hour drive from Valle de Los Chillos. Buses also run regularly between Quito and Baños.

Travel Tip: Visit the Pailon del Diablo waterfall, one of the most powerful and beautiful in the area.

Where to Stay: Luna Runtun offers luxury accommodations with spa services and a view of the volcano, while Hostal Chimenea is a budget-friendly option with a cozy atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Swiss Bistro Baños serves up hearty European fare, perfect after a day of outdoor activities.

Mindo Cloud Forest

The Mindo Cloud Forest is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. This biodiverse area is home to hundreds of species of birds, butterflies, and orchids. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and chocolate tours at local factories. The serene environment makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

How to Get There: Mindo is approximately a 2-hour drive from Valle de Los Chillos. Buses are also available from Quito.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the butterfly farm where you can see and learn about the various stages of butterfly metamorphosis.

Where to Stay: El Monte Sustainable Lodge offers eco-friendly accommodations and a unique stay in the heart of the cloud forest.

Where to Eat: El Quetzal de Mindo is known for its homemade chocolate and offers a delightful chocolate tour with tastings.

Papallacta Hot Springs

Just a short drive from Valle de Los Chillos, the Papallacta Hot Springs offer a tranquil escape with therapeutic thermal baths surrounded by high Andean landscapes. The hot springs are part of a complex that includes a spa and wellness center, where you can indulge in massages and treatments. The nearby Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve also provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.

How to Get There: Papallacta is about a 1.5-hour drive from Valle de Los Chillos. Buses from Quito to Baeza pass through the town of Papallacta.

Travel Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds that flock to the hot springs on weekends.

Where to Stay: Termas de Papallacta offers comfortable lodging with direct access to the hot springs and spa services.

Where to Eat: The restaurant at Termas de Papallacta serves delicious local trout, a regional specialty.

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve, one of only two inhabited volcanic craters in the world. The lush crater is home to a unique ecosystem and small farming communities. Hiking and horseback riding are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the crater's diverse flora and fauna.

How to Get There: Pululahua is about a 1-hour drive from Valle de Los Chillos. Public transportation is limited, so a car rental or taxi is recommended.

Travel Tip: Visit the viewpoint at the crater rim for a panoramic view of the entire caldera and its patchwork of agricultural fields.

Where to Stay: There are a few guesthouses within the reserve, such as El Crater Hotel, which offers stunning views and a unique location on the crater's edge.

Where to Eat: El Crater Restaurant provides not only tasty meals but also an incredible view of the crater.

Ilaló Mountain

Ilaló Mountain is a dormant volcano that offers a less crowded hiking experience with rewarding views of the surrounding valleys and volcanoes. The trails are suitable for all levels, and the summit provides a panoramic vista of the Quito area. It's a perfect spot for a day hike and a picnic with friends or family.

How to Get There: Ilaló is easily accessible from Valle de Los Chillos, with the base of the mountain being only a 30-minute drive away.

Travel Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise from the summit.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations on the mountain itself, the nearby town of Tumbaco has several charming bed and breakfasts, such as Casa de Hacienda La Jimenita.

Where to Eat: La Casa de Rafa offers a delightful dining experience with traditional Ecuadorian cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.

Yunguilla Valley

Yunguilla Valley is a hidden gem located to the southwest of Quito. This less-traveled destination is known for its pleasant climate, fruit orchards, and small-scale coffee plantations. It's an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in rural Ecuadorian life and enjoy some agro-tourism activities like fruit picking or coffee tasting.

How to Get There: The Yunguilla Valley is approximately a 2-hour drive from Valle de Los Chillos. A private vehicle is the most convenient way to explore this rural area.

Travel Tip: Visit the community-run conservation project "Jocotoco Antpitta Reserve" to see the rare and elusive Jocotoco Antpitta bird.

Where to Stay: There are several eco-lodges and guesthouses in the area, such as the Yunguilla Community Guesthouse, which supports local conservation efforts.

Where to Eat: Many lodges and guesthouses offer home-cooked meals using fresh, local ingredients. Be sure to try the locally grown coffee.