Quilotoa Lagoon: Full-Day Tour from Quito

Ecuador



Admire the spectacular nature and beauty of the Quilotoa Lagoon on this day tour.

Quilotoa Lagoon Day Trip from Quito with Hiking and Cultural Visits

This full-day tour from Quito suits active travelers interested in hiking, cultural experiences, and natural landscapes near Quilotoa Lagoon.

Highlights

  • Explore Quilotoa Lagoon and its surrounding Andean landscape with an experienced guide
  • Hike down to the lagoon and along connecting trails
  • Visit local community viewpoints and a Tigua craft workshop
  • Learn about traditions and daily life of the highland community

Description

Depart Quito heading south toward Quilotoa Lagoon, stopping at the Shalala viewpoint to admire the Andean scenery. Visit the community viewpoint before hiking down to the crater lagoon. Free time is allocated to explore and hike the area. On the return, follow the path connecting the lagoon to the community viewpoint. The hike is physically demanding; participants not in good condition can take a mule ride back to the viewpoint.

After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a Tigua craft workshop, known for its vibrant, hand-painted artworks, followed by a stop at Toachi Canyon for additional scenic views.

Includes

  • Transportation from Quito
  • Bilingual guide (English-Spanish)
  • Visit to a local family in the moorland community
  • Entry fee to Quilotoa community area

Excludes

  • Mule ride
  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • Park access and visitation conditions may change without notice due to COVID-19 health guidelines

Cancellation Policy

Cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For best experience, bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, water, and dress for changeable weather. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes guided hikes around Quilotoa Lagoon, visits to local highland communities, and a stop at a Tigua craft workshop.
The hike involves descending to the lagoon and walking along connecting trails, suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels interested in active outdoor activities.
The tour departs from Quito and returns to the city after visiting Quilotoa Lagoon and nearby cultural sites.
Yes, the tour includes visits to local communities where you can learn about Andean traditions and daily life, including a stop at a Tigua craft workshop.
Yes, transportation between Quito and Quilotoa Lagoon is included in the full-day tour.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing for changing weather, water, and sun protection for the outdoor activities in Ecuador's Andes.
The tour operates year-round, but dry season months in Ecuador from June to September offer clearer skies and easier hiking conditions.
Meal inclusion varies by provider, so check the tour details for information about meals during the day trip from Quito.
The full-day tour typically lasts about 10 to 12 hours, including travel, hiking, and cultural visits.
The tour is best suited for older children or teens who can manage moderate hikes and enjoy cultural experiences in Ecuador's highlands.

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