Quilotoa Culture & Hike
$55 per person
A full-day group tour from Quito to Quilotoa:
- - Visit a local market
- - Meet a local Andean family
- - Tigua community art
- - Toachi Canyon viewpoint
- - Hike to Quilotoa Lake (3,900 m)
- - Lunch included
- Tuesday
- Thursday
- Sunday
Itinerary
“Put on your hiking shoes, I want to show you the most beautiful view in the Andes.”
Every Tuesday, Thursday, & Sunday
This is a group tour. We guarantee departures, even with one person.
Our first stop is an authentic local market usually Saquisili (or Romerillos on Sundays). You will have time to see local products, try fresh fruits, and buy snacks for the day.
Note: The market visit is not available on Tuesdays.
We visit a traditional highland home to see how the local community lives. You will see alpacas and cuy (guinea pigs) and learn about life in the mountains.
Tip: These families live from community tourism; if you enjoyed the visit, a small tip is a great way to show your thanks.
Along the way, a local artist from Tigua may join us to explain their famous colorful folk art.
On our way to Quilotoa, we stop at a viewpoint to see the impressive Toachi Canyon, a natural landmark formed by volcanic activity.
When we reach Quilotoa crater (3,900 m), you can hike down the trail to the lake shore to see the water up close. Going down takes about 45 minutes (easy), but the walk back up can take 1 hour and 15 minutes because it’s steep.
Tip: You can rent a mule for the climb up or choose to stay at the top and enjoy the view.
Enjoy time at the bottom of the crater to relax by the shore.
Optional: If time, weather and availability allow, you can rent a kayak from the local community on the spot (not available for pre-booking).
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Note
Our itinerary may change based on the weather or other factors. Your guide will always make the best decision for the group. All times are approximate and may be adjusted during the day.
Pricing
Every Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday
- ZIncluded
- - Certified & bilingual national guide
- - Authorized tourist transport
- - Lunch (menu-type meal)
- Excluded
- - Entrance fee to Quilotoa and Toachi: $3 (cash payment)
- - Mule ride: $10 (optional, cash payment)
- - Kayaking: $4 (optional, cash payment)
- - Extra food, snacks and drinks
- - Tips
- - Taxes: Only applicable to Ecuadorian citizens and companies
- What to Pack
For this tour wear comfortable clothing, shoes and be ready for weather conditions. Since we’ll be in the Andes, we recommend bringing:
- - Gloves, scarf, and a hat
- - A waterproof jacket
- - Sunscreen and sunglasses
- - Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes and warm socks
- - Water and snacks for energy
This list is a recommendation for extra comfort, it’s not required.
- Good to Know
- - On Tuesdays, there is no market activity
- - This tour is always in English and Spanish
- - Our guide is always there to support you
- - Wear layers to stay ready for changing weather
- - The guide may adjust the itinerary and schedule if necessary
Frequently Asked questions
Quilotoa Crater Lake
Q: What time do the day tours to Quilotoa Lagoon start?
The tour departs early to make the most of the day. We have two meeting points in Quito: Plaza Foch at 07:00 AM and Plaza San Blas at 07:15 AM. Please arrive a few minutes early so the group can leave on time.
Q: Are meals included in the Quilotoa day tour?
Yes. A traditional Ecuadorian lunch (starter, main course, and drink) is included in the price. We recommend bringing your own water and some light snacks for the hike.
Q: Is the hike to Quilotoa Crater Lake difficult?
The hike down to the lake is easy and takes about 45 minutes. However, the hike back up is very steep and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Because of the altitude (3,900m), it can be physically demanding. If you prefer not to walk back up, you can rent a mule from the local community for $10.
Q: Can children participate in the Quilotoa Day Tour?
Yes! Children are welcome. The cultural visits to the local market and the Andean family are very popular with families. If the hike is too much for small children, they can stay at the top viewpoint with a guardian or ride a mule back up from the lake.
Q: What should I bring for the Quilotoa day tour?
Because the weather changes quickly, we recommend dressing in layers. Bring a warm waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat. Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must, as the reflection of the sun on the lake is very strong. Also, please bring small cash for the $3 entrance fee and optional activities like mules or kayaking.
Q: Is there a restroom available during the tour?
Yes. There are restrooms available at our breakfast stop, at the local market, and at the top of the Quilotoa crater. Please note that local community restrooms usually charge a small fee (around $0.25), so it is helpful to have coins ready.
Cotopaxi Hike & Bike
From Quito
group tour
Hike and downhill bike Cotopaxi volcano for the ultimate adventure.
Departures
Wed - Fri - Sat - Sun
Duration
Full day
Highlights
Hike & bike
Physical level
per person
