Quito , Ecuador

Private Quilotoa Enchanted Crater Lake

Active

(23 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This full-day cultural tour begins with a visit to a local indigenous market at Saquilisilí or an historic church in Pujilí (Thursday/Sunday). The drive to Laguna Quilotoa displays a beautiful view of the Andean mountains, passing the ancient canyon of Zumbahua and many indigenous towns and farmlands. Before arriving at Quilotoa we will visit and incredible local gallery in Tigua, where we will have a short painting class to learn about the ancient techniques in this charming town. The tour includes a hike down into the Laguna Quilotoa, a sparkling emerald lake inside the inactive volcano crater. The return hike takes one hour, or there is the option of renting a mule for $12. We will arrive back to Quito in the early evening.

We will arrive back to Quito in the early evening.

Available options

Private Quilotoa Enchanted Crater Lake

Pickup included

What's included

Hiking sticks

Lunch

Fees and entrance to Quilotoa reserve, hike to the lake.

Transportation: Comfortable land transportation.

Trip Leader: Certified AJ expert English-speaking adventure trip leader

Detailed itinerary

We will visit The Quilotoa lagoon, one of the most beautiful volcanic lagoons on the planet. The most significant feature of this lagoon, with a depth of 250 meters, is its turquoise green waters. The Quilotoa is the westernmost volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes, within its crater a caldera with a diameter of almost 9 km has been formed. We will hike down to appreciate how the minerals have given the surface a greenish and bluish hue when it is hit by sunlight. Inside, there are springs that, from the shore, can be seen as bubbling trails that rise to the surface.

We will visit the traditional Tigua town, where artists have always been known for decorating masks and drums for their festivals with precision and vibrant color. Their talented hands create an extravaganza of color and beauty that is beyond what would be expected from self-taught artists. Once in here you will have a painting lesson with the ancestral technique of painting on a sheepskin. You will take your creation as a souvenir to remember this unconventional experience.

We will visit the viewpoint of Toachi Canyon, a great geographical accident in the form of a gigantic ravine that partly crosses the reserve and is visible from a natural viewpoint in the vicinity of Sigchos. This geographical feature has a viewpoint to appreciate its beautiful landscape in whose deep interior runs the Toachi River, the main hydrographic axis of the Area.

What's not included

Tips

Souvenirs

Optional rent of a horse/mule ($12) on the way back up from the lake

Painting Taller (15 USD per person)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

23 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

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.