Llullu Llama Mountain Lodge

We LOVED staying at Llullu Llama! We did the Quilotoa loop and Llullu was our first stay. It was perfect in every way. The bed was super comfy, the views were spectacular, and the food was amazing. They were super accommodating and let us check in a few hours early. Our only regret is that we didn’t stay longer. Seriously though, if you do stay here, we’d recommend staying at least two nights. We opted for a private room with a fireplace and it was such a cozy way to spend the evening. We did a morning yoga session before heading off on day two of our trek. The sauna/hot tub are well worth the price. Hot showers, full bar (even some hot drinks for those cold nights), and a game room. We’ve already started planning our next trip to Ecuador and plan on staying here again (taking a bus there instead of doing the trek again). Llullu Llama is well worth the price.

Amazing stay! The views are absolutely breathtaking — the rooms have large picture windows overlooking the mountains. The dining room is spacious with great food and drinks. Trail maps are provided, making it easy to explore and stay on track. Loved everything about this place!

We stayed here for about 4 days. We had a memorable time and loved all the many people we met. It was also interesting learning about how poor this and other areas of Ecuador are, the challenges they face and how the Lodge supports the local community. We understand that the Lodge is owned by a Dutch/Equadorian couple. They have really hit the nail on the head regarding what people are after and how to run a sustainable and ethical business. We did not do the Quilitoa loop hike but based on other detailed reviews we knew we would have a lovely time. In fact many guests staying for only one night were sad to move on. We did see the Quilitoa Lake on the day we hired a private taxi to take us to a Saturday market (cost was about USD 70 I think, for both of us) and got an excellent sense of the wider area and communities, thanks to our wonderful driver. Location: remote - in a good way, but does mean it takes a bit of time to get there. From Quito we took 2 public buses (each a bit over 2 hours - about $2.50 per bus) and a 35 minute camioneta taxi from Sigchos to Isinlivi (fixed price of $12 - we didn't know this and were charged $15). On the way back we took the 45 mins milk bus with the locals (9am on Mondays only - we paid $1.50 as did the locals, but it felt like the driver made up the price on the spot at the end). I highly recommend the experience - although you'll need to duck branches if you're standing! The Lodge is really helpful in providing transport support, such as all relevant bus timetables - including a private taxi option. Do not try to do a private taxi or Uber yourself because you'll really appreciate having someone that knows the steep, winding and near non-existent road for the section closest to Isinlivi. Atmosphere: friendly, cosy and even luxurious. One of the highlights is getting to know other guests over dinner and breakfast. Because we stayed for a few nights we also had the pleasure of getting to know some of the lovely people working there too. Rooms: we had a private room with an incredible view of the mountains and, on one clear-ish night, the moon and stars! It felt very luxurious. Due to the dry/compost toilets in the private rooms, I would recommend that you have room cleaning every day. We typically don't, but by the afternoon of the 2nd day the smell suddenly became really bad. Reception immediately identified it was probably the toilet and recommended room cleaning - which did indeed sort out the problem. The private rooms have a fireplace but we didn't use it because our room was well insulated. Value: excellent. There are many interesting activities. Cleanliness: squeaky clean. Noise level: people seemed to be respectful of the polite notice in the common area of the quiet areas. Plus most people while we were there wanted to get a good night's sleep before setting off for Day 2 out of 3 of the Quilitoa Loop hike. Service: all staff were so friendly and helpful, including through promptly responding