One-day Guided Tour: Quilotoa from Baños to Quito
Pichincha, Ecuador
You'll enjoy spectacular mountain scenery, learn about the local culture, and have the chance to hike or ride a horse to the crater's edge.
Quilotoa Guided Tour with Transportation from Baños to Quito
This full-day guided tour travels from Baños to Quito, exploring the Quilotoa Lagoon and surrounding Andean landscapes. It suits travelers interested in nature, hiking, and local culture.
Highlights
- Visit to the Tigua Gallery at the 'Cóndor Huasi' Cultural Center
- Stop at the Mirador del Cañón del Río Toachi vantage point
- Hike to the edge of the Quilotoa Lagoon
- Ascent to the edge of the lagoon on foot or horseback
Description
Optimize your route with transportation from Baños to Quito on this guided tour of the Quilotoa Lagoon, Ecuador's iconic turquoise volcanic crater. The trip combines adventure hikes, cultural visits, and opportunities to relax amid natural landscapes.
The itinerary begins with a 6:30 AM private vehicle pick-up from Baños de Agua Santa. After a transit and transfer stop at 8:30 AM, the journey continues through scenic areas with several stops:
- Cultural immersion at a Kichwa Andina community to learn about local traditions and support sustainable tourism
- Visit to the Tigua Gallery at the 'Cóndor Huasi' Cultural Center to see traditional crafts
- Panoramic views at the Toachi River Canyon vantage point
Between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, the tour proceeds towards Zumbahua, passing colorful rural landscapes featuring indigenous crops, livestock, and traditional adobe homes, with views of Cotopaxi Volcano.
At noon, arrive at Quilotoa Lagoon (3,800 meters / 12,467 feet). From 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, walk to the lagoon’s edge with options to kayak or enjoy the scenery. Between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM, ascend to the edge on foot or horseback (horse rental available for an additional $10 USD). Lunch is served from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The tour ends with arrivals at various Quito tourist-area hotels by 6:00 PM.
Includes
- Lunch
- Certified tour guide
- Travel assistance
- Reserve entrance fee
- Tourism transportation
Excludes
- Kayak rental
- Horse rental
- Additional drinks and snacks during the tour
Important Information
- Gear: Bring warm, waterproof clothing, trekking shoes, sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, water, and snacks.
- Fitness Level: A good level of fitness is required for hiking and downhill biking activities.
- Acclimatization: Acclimate to the altitude before the hike by spending at least one day in Baños (1,820 meters / 5,971 feet).
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Bring a camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and at least 1 liter of water. Dress in warm, comfortable clothes and footwear. The best time to visit is during dry weather for safer hiking conditions.
