Nature & adventure Factory & workshop tours Outdoor activities Neighborhood tours Guided tours Day Trips From Day trips Tours Culture & history Landmarks & monuments Private tours National parks Viewing points Educational activities Workshops & classes Sightseeing UNESCO sites Hiking

Explore the Andean region on a day trip from Quito. Visit Don Julián’s home, a Tigua mask workshop, the Toachi River Canyon, and the Quilotoa Lagoon.

Highlights

• Immerse yourself in the warmth of Andean hospitality at Don Julián’s home
• Discover the art of Tigua mask-making and purchase unique pieces
• Marvel at the Toachi River Canyon, a stunning volcanic formation
• Enjoy breathtaking views of Quilotoa Lagoon from the Shalala viewpoint
• Descend to the lagoon’s shore and enjoy optional kayaking (not included)

Description

Begin your journey with a pickup from your hotel in Quito. Head towards the Andean region, enjoying breathtaking landscapes and the majestic volcanoes that crown the Andes mountain range. Stop at Don Julián’s house, a traditional Andean home. Get a close look at the community’s customs and daily life, share with his family, and observe the raising of their animals — a genuine encounter with the warmth of Andean hospitality. Continue to a Tigua mask workshop, where local artisans keep alive an ancestral tradition. These colorful, hand-crafted masks depict scenes of community life and the indigenous worldview. Observe the creative process and even purchase unique pieces directly from their creators. Next, stop at the Toachi River Canyon, an impressive volcanic formation approximately 40 meters deep. This striking landscape, sculpted by pyroclastic flows from Quilotoa volcano more than 1,800 years ago, offers a spectacular view of the Toachi River, the main watercourse in the area. Visit the Shalala viewpoint, one of the best panoramic points overlooking Quilotoa Lagoon. This community-managed viewpoint features a suspended glass platform projecting over the cliff, providing a breathtaking view of the emerald-green waters surrounded by Andean peaks. In addition to its unique scenery, this visit directly supports local families who manage the site. Finally, arrive at the Quilotoa Lagoon, located in the parish of Zumbahua, considered one of the 15 most beautiful volcanic lakes in the world. Its emerald-green waters, with shades that change depending on the light and dissolved minerals, create an unforgettable landscape. Those who wish may descend to the lagoon’s shore (about 1h walk), enjoy kayaking (optional and not included in the tour), and then hike back up (about 1h30). After the visit, take a break to enjoy lunch at a local community restaurant, with a delicious Andean menu (lunch not included in the tour). In the late afternoon, begin your return to Quito, with arrival at your hotel at approximately 17h30.

Includes

Hotel pick-up and drop-off Comfortable and safe tourist land transportation English-speaking certified national tour guide Visit to Don Julián’s house Visit to the Tigua mask workshop Visit to the Toachi River Canyon Visit to the Shalala viewpoint Visit to Quilotoa Lagoon

Important Information

• The tour involves walking and hiking, so a moderate level of fitness is required. Weather can be cold and windy, especially at higher altitudes, so dress accordingly.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund