Quilotoa Tour: 1 day in a dream landscape from Quito.

Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador



A tour of Quilotoa from Quito? Is it possible? Yes! The impressive turquoise volcanic crater offers you a wonderful view from above the crater, and you could go down to its edge by donkey or on foot.

Quilotoa Lagoon Day Tour with Indigenous Market Visit

This full-day tour in Ecuador’s Cotopaxi province suits nature and culture lovers seeking local markets, artisan workshops, and volcanic landscapes.

Highlights

  • Visit Saquisilí Indigenous Market to experience typical gastronomy and local atmosphere.
  • Discover Tigua’s traditional leather painting workshop near Quilotoa Lagoon.
  • Trek or observe the spectacular views around Quilotoa volcanic crater.
  • Explore Toachi Canyon to observe its dry environment and unique natural changes.
  • Quilotoa Lagoon ranks among Ecuador’s 15 most beautiful lagoons.

Description

The tour begins early with a visit to Saquisilí Market, where locals sell fresh produce, textiles, crafts, and livestock. En route to Quilotoa, stop at an indigenous family home to learn about their daily life.

Next, visit Tigua, known for its distinctive leather paintings, to see local artists at work. Continue to Toachi Canyon for panoramic views of this dry canyon landscape.

Arrive at Quilotoa Lagoon, a volcanic crater lake with emerald and turquoise waters. Spend time at the lookout points or descend to the lagoon’s edge by foot or on a donkey to enjoy the landscape from below.

Includes

  • Pick up and drop off
  • Bilingual tour guide
  • Entrance to Quilotoa Lagoon
  • Lunch
  • Water bottle
  • Comfortable transportation

Excludes

  • Breakfast
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips

Cancellation Policy

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

For best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera. The tour operates year-round; mornings offer cooler temperatures and clearer skies for photography. Book in advance to secure your spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to Saquisili Indigenous Market, a Tigua painting workshop, trekking or donkey riding at Quilotoa Lagoon, and views of Toachi Canyon in Ecuador.
The tour typically lasts one full day, starting early in the morning and returning to Quito by evening.
Saquisili Indigenous Market is located in the central highlands of Ecuador, en route to the Quilotoa Lagoon region.
Yes, you can trek or ride a donkey to the edge of Quilotoa Lagoon to explore the volcanic crater lake and its surroundings.
The tour offers light trekking suitable for most fitness levels, with options to ride donkeys for those preferring less walking.
The tour includes visiting the Saquisili Market for local crafts and gastronomy, and exploring the Tigua painting workshop near Quilotoa Lagoon.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, sun protection, water, and a camera to capture Ecuador’s volcanic landscapes.
The tour can be done year-round, but weather conditions can vary, so check the website for current information before booking.
No prior experience is needed; the trekking is light and suitable for beginners and casual hikers.
The tour starts and ends in Quito, Ecuador, usually with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

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