From Quito: Quilotoa Lagoon Full-Day Tour with Lunch

Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador



Discover the Quilotoa Lagoon on a full-day tour from Quito. Visit the Saquisili(only Thursday)/ Romerillos(only Sunday) indigenous market, see the Toachi Canyon, and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Discover the Quilotoa Lagoon full-day tour from Quito, ideal for travelers interested in indigenous culture, nature, and outdoor activities.

Highlights

  • Visit an indigenous market (only Sundays and Thursdays)
  • Experience the daily life of an indigenous family and see their crop cultivation
  • Stop at Toachi Canyon for views of the dramatic canyon
  • Hike to the shores of Quilotoa Lagoon and rent a kayak or horse
  • Enjoy lunch while exploring the paintings, culture, and landscape of Tigua

Description

This full-day guided tour departs from Quito and includes lunch. Begin at the Saquisilí indigenous market, open on Thursdays and Sundays, known for trading animals and regional produce. Engage with local vendors and explore traditional fruits and vegetables.

Next, visit an indigenous hut near Toachi Canyon to observe family life, their diet, and agricultural practices. It is customary to leave a small tip of $1 to $3 for the family.

At Toachi Canyon, stop to admire the expansive views before heading to Quilotoa Lagoon. Hike down to the lagoon's shore and choose to rent a kayak or a horse for the ascent.

Conclude the day with lunch while appreciating the local art and culture in Tigua, followed by a brief visit to Romerillos market on Sundays.

Includes

  • Lunch
  • Transportation
  • Permits to enter protected areas
  • Bilingual certified guide (Spanish/English)

Excludes

  • Additional snacks and refreshments
  • Souvenirs
  • Horse rental (optional, $10)
  • Kayak rental (optional, $5 for 15 minutes)
  • Tips
  • Admission to Quilotoa Lagoon ($2 per person)

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring sturdy shoes for hiking, sun protection, and cash for optional rentals and tips. The market visits occur only on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan your trip accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to an indigenous market, Toachi Canyon, hiking to Quilotoa Lagoon, lunch in Tigua, and opportunities to rent a kayak or horse.
The Saquisilí indigenous market is open on Sundays and Thursdays, which is when the tour visits it.
The hike down to Quilotoa Lagoon typically takes about 45 minutes, depending on your pace.
Yes, lunch is included and takes place in Tigua where you can also explore local culture and paintings.
Yes, visitors have the option to rent a kayak or a horse to explore Quilotoa Lagoon more closely.
Toachi Canyon is along the route from Quito to Quilotoa Lagoon and is noted for its impressive natural landscape.
Yes, the tour includes interactions with an indigenous family to observe daily life and agriculture practices.
The tour involves hiking and outdoor activities, so suitability depends on individual fitness levels; check with the provider for specific recommendations.
Transportation from Quito to Quilotoa Lagoon is provided as part of the guided full-day tour.
Check the official tour website or local information sources for up-to-date hours and availability.

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