Frequently asked questions

We recommend booking your Ecuador day tours in advance, especially for popular destinations like Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Otavalo, or the Mindo Cloud Forest. While we accept last-minute bookings, tours often fill up quickly, particularly in high season (June–September and December–January).

It’s possible, but not guaranteed. Some day tours from Quito or other cities have guaranteed departures, but others depend on minimum group size or transportation availability. If you’re already in Ecuador, contact us directly to check last-minute availability.

When you book a day tour on our website, you’ll get instant confirmation by email, including all the essential details: pickup time, location, and an emergency number. If there’s any issue, we’ll reach out within 24 hours.

Yes, absolutely. You can book directly on our website using our secure online booking system. We accept all major credit cards and you’ll receive a confirmation email instantly after payment.

Yes, many of our most popular Ecuador day tours—like Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, or Otavalo—run with guaranteed departures on set days of the week. Check our group day tours calendar or ask us directly.

Private tours are possible any day.

Group tours are shared with other travelers, follow a fixed itinerary, and usually depart on set days. They’re great if you want to save money and meet other people.

Private tours are just for you (or your group), and offer more flexibility with timing, pace, and even route.

It depends on your travel style. If you prefer personal attention, a slower pace, or you’re traveling with kids or a group, a private tour is often worth the extra cost. You also have more input over the schedule and stops.

Yes, custom day trips are one of our specialties. You can adjust pickup times, add or skip stops, and even combine destinations like Cotopaxi + Quilotoa in one day. Just tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll help design the perfect itinerary.

We keep our group sizes small, usually between 6 and 12 people. This makes for a better experience with your guide, more time at each stop, and less waiting around.

Yes, just let us know in advance and we’ll give you the price difference. You’ll get a private vehicle and guide, and we can tweak the schedule to suit your interests.

Most of our day tours last between 8 and 10 hours, depending on the destination. Tours to Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Otavalo, and Mindo are full-day trips. If you’re short on time, we also offer some shorter Quito city tours or customized private trips.

Most full-day tours include lunch or a lunch stop at a local restaurant. Details are listed on each tour page. If you have dietary restrictions, let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Yes, most tours include some free time, whether it’s to walk around a town like Otavalo, take photos at scenic spots like Quilotoa, or explore a short trail at your own pace. Our guides try to balance structure with flexibility so you don’t feel rushed.

Yes, all our day tours include round-trip transportation, usually from central locations like Quito Old Town. We use comfortable, licensed vehicles and professional drivers. No need to figure out bus schedules or taxis, just show up and enjoy the day.

For private tours, we offer pickup and drop off at your accommodation.

For group day tours, we offer set locations in main areas located near hostels and hotels. The exact location is listed on each tour page, and we’ll confirm pickup when you book.

Most tours start around 7:00–8:00 AM and return between 4:00–6:00 PM, depending on the destination. The exact schedule is listed on each tour page, and we’ll confirm pickup time when you book.

We don’t offer regular airport pickups for day tours, but private tour options can include airport or out-of-town pickups for an extra fee. Contact us to check availability.

Most of our Ecuador day tours are designed for the average traveler so there’s no need to be an athlete. You should be comfortable walking for short distances and spending time at higher altitudes. Some tours include optional hikes or activities, but you can often choose how active you want to be.

Yes, we can recommend options for travelers with limited mobility. Some destinations, like Otavalo Market or Quito’s historic center, are more accessible than others. However, places like Cotopaxi or Quilotoa involve uneven terrain or altitude. Let us know your needs in advance, and we’ll suggest suitable tours or modify the experience if possible.

We can also recommend booking a private tour so you can adjust the experience where necessary, while still enjoying the beauty of Ecuador.

Altitude varies depending on the destination. Quito itself sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 ft). Tours to Cotopaxi or Quilotoa can reach over 4,000 meters (13,000+ ft).

If you’re not used to high altitude, take it easy on your first days in Ecuador. Drink water, rest, and avoid alcohol the night before.

Some tours include hikes, such as walking down to Quilotoa Lake or up to Cotopaxi’s refuge. These hikes can be challenging due to the elevation, but they’re not technically difficult. You can usually go at your own pace or opt out of the hike if needed. If hiking is a concern, ask us before booking, we’re happy to help you choose the right tour.

Yes, most day tours in Ecuador operate all year. Thanks to the country’s location on the equator, there are no extreme seasons, just wet and dry periods. Even in the rainy season, mornings are often clear, and tours still run unless weather conditions make it unsafe.

That depends on where you’re going.

The Andes region (Quito, Cotopaxi, Quilotoa) tends to be driest from June to September, which many consider the best time for hiking and mountain views.

In the Amazon, it’s humid year-round, but wildlife is active in all seasons.

Coastal areas and the Galápagos are great between December and May, with warmer seas and calmer waters.

Tours don’t usually get canceled because of rain since it’s a normal part of life in Ecuador. We recommend bringing a light rain jacket or poncho just in case.

If severe weather affects safety (like volcanic activity or road closures), we’ll work with you to reschedule or offer a refund. Local guides monitor conditions closely and always prioritize your safety.