Full-Day Tour to the Quilotoa Lagoon, Ecuador.

Quito , Ecuador

Full-Day Tour to the Quilotoa Lagoon, Ecuador.

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About this experience

Enjoy a full-day tour of one of Ecuador's most important natural attractions.
Enjoy Ecuador Tour Operator takes you to Quilotoa, a volcanic crater lagoon in the Cotopaxi Province, 2 hours 40 minutes from Quito.
We will make a stop at a craft painting workshop in Tigua, a small town that has great artists who make paintings on sheepskin with acrylic paint, in which they teach us about their day-to-day lives.
On this tour we will get to know one of the most beautiful places at the Ilinizas Ecological Reserve, if we have a sunny and clear day we will have the opportunity to observe the Quilotoa lagoon and its characteristic turquoise blue color.
We will visit the viewpoints made by the community of Quilotoa and also you will have time to visit the restaurants, handicraft shops, etc.
To finish the tour we will have time for lunch and then return to Quito.

Available options

Full-Day Tour to the Quilotoa Lagoon, Ecuador.

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Entrance to the Quilotoa Lagoon.

Detailed itinerary

We will make a stop at an artisan painting workshop in Tigua, a small town that has great artists who make paintings on sheepskin with acrylic paint, in which they teach us about their day to day life.

We will have the opportunity to visit the Toachi river canyon and its pine forest that give this paradisiacal place a special touch.
It is a beautiful natural attraction and ideal for taking pictures.
According to the community, the Toachi Canyon is the product of pyroclastic flows during the eruption of the Quilotoa volcano.

Stop 3

On this tour we will be able to see one of the most beautiful places in the Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve, if we have a sunny and clear day we will have the opportunity to observe the Quilotoa lagoon and its characteristic turquoise blue color.
We will visit the different community viewpoints that are in the Quilotoa.
They also have several craft shops and restaurants for tourists to visit.

What's not included

Tips.

Tickets and food not indicated in the itinerary.

Personal expenses.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Show your ticket to the tour guide at the of pick-up from your hotel.

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.