From Quito: Quilotoa Lake & the Andean Highlands
Pichincha, Ecuador
Activity
Official tickets via GetYourGuide
Discover the beauty of the Ecuadorian Andes on a day trip from Quito. Visit Tigua, explore Toachi Canyon, and enjoy the views of Quilotoa Lake.
Highlights
- Discover the vibrant art of Tigua, a community known for its leather paintings
- Marvel at the breathtaking views of Quilotoa Lake from a scenic viewpoint
- Admire the dramatic landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes on a day trip from Quito
- Explore the impressive Toachi Canyon and capture its natural beauty in photos
- Enjoy the option to hike down to the shores of Quilotoa Lake or ride a mule
Description
Begin your experience with a pickup from your hotel in Quito. Travel south along the Pan-American Highway toward the southwestern Andes. After approximately three hours, arrive in Tigua, an Andean community renowned for its distinctive artistic tradition, particularly its colorful paintings created on leather, depicting scenes of everyday life, landscapes, and the cultural traditions of the indigenous communities of the region. Continue your journey to the impressive Toachi Canyon, where you will make a stop to admire and photograph this spectacular natural setting, surrounded by the characteristic landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. Ascend to one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural attractions: Quilotoa Lake. From the viewpoint, enjoy breathtaking views of its remarkable turquoise waters, surrounded by the dramatic crater walls and the extraordinary Andean landscape. For those wishing to experience the lake from a closer perspective, there is the option of walking down to the shores of the crater lake, always taking into consideration each passenger’s physical condition and personal preferences, as the return journey involves a significant uphill climb. Alternatively, horses or mules may be hired locally for the return journey from the lake. The cost of this service is not included in the tour price and is an optional service arranged directly on site. Rates may vary depending on the owner of the horse or mule and the conditions of the service at the time of the visit. At the end of your visit, begin your journey back to Quito, taking with you lasting memories of a day filled with breathtaking scenery, Andean culture, and authentic Ecuadorian experiences.Includes
Hotel pickup and drop-off Visit to Tigua community Visit to Toachi Canyon Visit to Quilotoa Lake Live tour guideExcludes
Horse or mule hire for return journey from Quilotoa Lake Tips Meals BeveragesImportant Information
- The return journey from Quilotoa Lake involves a significant uphill climb Horse or mule hire is an optional service arranged directly on site and is not included in the tour price