Quilotoa Crater Lake Private Day Tour: Trekking, Market, Art and Llamas
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A tour to the Quilotoa Crater Lake is a must if you are visiting Ecuador. It´s a perfect day, where you can explore the beautiful Andes region. On the way to Quilotoa you will be able to take in the sights of the Avenue of Volcanoes including the Cotopaxi. Before going up to Quilotoa we will first stop and visit a traditional indigenous market, then we will make a stop at the town of Tigua renowned for its unique art style and handcrafted wooden masks of endemic wildlife and local legends, you will also have a chance to take a picture with a llama and traditional Andean homes at the Toachi Canyon. Once you arrive at Quilotoa you will have time to take in the amazing sights, trek down to the lake bottom, kayak on the lake and come back up riding a mule or horse. We will have lunch in town and head back to Quito before the fog comes down. Truly a fun packed day with tons of culture, art, landscapes and outdoor activities.
Available options
Quilotoa Crater Lake Private Day Tour: Trekking, Market, Art and Llamas
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Certified Bilingual Guide
Snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
On the way up to Quilotoa you will make a stop in the Andean town of Tigua. This town is renowned for its local artists. We will make a quick stop at some art galleries which showcase this unique local art style.
2
The town of Tigua is also famous for its hand crafted wooden masks. I love making a quick stop at a workshop where you can see how these masks are made and you have a choice of multicolored masks representing local animals and legends. Among these you´ll find, an andean fox, amazon monkey, wolf, rooster, Diablo Huma, and many more. Its a great stop for souvenirs.
3
Stop 3
Once we make it to the town of Quilotoa, you will have time to walk around the touristy town a the top of the crater, take in the sights of the crater lake from the various lookout spots and trek down to the lake bottom where you can rent kayaks. If you are too tired you can take a mule or horse back to the top. Quilotoa Crater Lake is a breathtaking experience. Highly recommended!
4
Pujili is a small Andean town on the way to Quilotoa. They have a great market here open on Wednesdays and Sundays. If your trip falls on either day we will make a stop here so you can experience a bit of Andean culture and see how a market works and operates in this corner of the World.
5
Zumbahua is a small Andean town on the way to Quilotoa. They have a great market here open on Saturdays. If your trip falls on a Saturday, we will make a stop here so you can experience a bit of Andean culture and see how a market works and operates in this corner of the World. The Zumbahua market is a very traditional indigenous market.
6
Saquisili is a small Andean town on the way to Quilotoa. They have a great market here open on Thursdays. If your trip falls on a Thursday we will make a stop here so you can experience a bit of Andean culture and see how a market works and operates in this corner of the World. Also a very traditional indigenous Andean market.
7
The Toachi Canyon is called the Ecuadorian Grand Canyon. On the way up to Quilotoa we can make a short stop at a lookout point where you will be able to take in the beautiful sights of the Toachi Canyon. You can also take a picture with a llama and visit an Andean hut where you can see how the Andean indigenous live.
What's not included
Entrance fees to attractions
Lunch
Gratuities
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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2
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of Quito
The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
Historical
Half to full day
Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums
TelefériQo
A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.
Adventure
1-2 hours
Moderate
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.
Historical
Half day
Moderate
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
Nature
Half to full day
Budget
Basílica del Voto Nacional
One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.
Religious
1-2 hours
Budget
Capilla del Hombre
A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Llocro de Papa
A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Cuy Asado
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
Dinner
Contains meat
Encebollado
A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.
Lunch
Contains fish
Empanadas de Viento
Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park
Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest
Paragliding over Quito
Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs
Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances
Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace
Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center
Exploring local markets and shopping areas
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.
Getting there
By air
- Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center
By bus
Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)
Getting around
Public transport
Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.
Taxis
Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
La Floresta
González Suárez
El Panecillo
Day trips
Cotopaxi National Park
50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day
A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Mindo Cloud Forest
80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day
A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.
Papallacta Hot Springs
65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day
Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Festivals
Fiestas de Quito • Early December
Inti Raymi • June 21-24
Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
- Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
