Excursion Day to Quilotoa Lagoon from Quito

Quito , Ecuador

Excursion Day to Quilotoa Lagoon from Quito

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

The Quilotoa is a 3 km (2 mi) wide water-filled caldera formed by the collapse of this dacite volcano followed by an eruption of VEI-6 approximately 812 years ago, which produced a pyroclastic flow and lahars ( mud flows) that reached the Pacific Ocean, which deposited volcanic ash through the air along the northern Andes.

Available options

Excursion Day to Quilotoa Lagoon from Quito

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Private Tour

Hotel pick up and drop-off ( Hotel pick up inside the Urban perimeter of Quito)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Early in the morning we head south of the city along the Avenida de los Volcanes, so called because, weather permitting, we can see hills and volcanoes such as Pasochoa, Corazón, Cotopaxi, Ilinizas, among others. We will pass through the town of Pujilí and continue to the indigenous community of Tigua, famous for its Andean indigenous-themed crafts. Here we will visit an artisan workshop to observe these works of art up close, we will continue until we reach the Zumbahua Community where we will do a stop at the viewpoint of the Toachi River. We continue until we reach the viewpoint of the lagoon from where we will have a great view of the entire crater of the extinct volcano and inside a large lagoon of turquoise color and other shades of green and blue of Quilotoa, from this site the walk begins, with our With our guide, we will descend until we reach the shores of this beautiful lagoon, and they will have time to take a boat or kayak ride in its waters (not included).

After the fun we take the way back and we will ascend to the starting point, upon arrival our guide will recommend you and give you the necessary time to have lunch. After recovering our strength, we headed to another entrance to the lagoon in the community of Shalalá to visit its viewpoint and have another angle and the last view of this jewel embedded in the mountains. In the afternoon return to Quito and our guide will drop you off at his hotel.

What's not included

Entrance Fees

Food and Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wear warm clothes, scarf, wool hat, sunglasses, cold gloves, comfortable walking shoes with preferred styling

We provide Multilingual guide

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Meeting spot given by the operator (near the hotel of the passenger)

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.