Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets in One Day From Quito

Setting out on a day tour from Quito to Quilotoa Lagoon and a local craft market promises an immersive cultural experience. Travelers can expect stunning vistas of the emerald crater lake, opportunities to engage with a highlander family, and a chance to explore the vibrant heritage of the region through traditional handicrafts. This well-organized excursion offers a blend of natural beauty and culture, making it an appealing choice for adventurous visitors seeking to delve deeper into Ecuador’s captivating highlands.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Quito to the Quilotoa Lagoon, an emerald crater lake, including a visit to a traditional craft market.
• Opportunity to learn about local culture and highland communities through a visit to a family home.
• Hiking or mule riding options available to explore the Quilotoa Lagoon, with breathtaking vistas.
• Lunch at a nearby restaurant with vegetarian options included in the tour price.
• Highly-rated tour with a 96% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Quito takes guests to the captivating Quilotoa Lagoon, an emerald crater lake nestled within the Quilotoa National Park.

It’s an ideal experience for nature lovers with limited time in Ecuador. The tour includes a visit to a traditional craft market and opportunities to hike or ride a mule to the crater rim for breathtaking views.

Lunch and all transfers are provided, making this a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the region.

With a 96% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 4.9, this tour is a highly-rated choice for travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 7:00 am with pickup from designated meeting points in Quito. First, visitors explore a local market, learning about the traditional crafts and way of life of the Highlander community. They then visit a family home, gaining insights into the local culture. The highlight of the day is the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, an emerald crater lake. Travelers can choose to hike or ride a mule to the crater rim, taking in the breathtaking vistas. Afterward, they enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant, with vegetarian options available.

Activity	Location
Local market visit	Quilotoa area
Highlander family home visit	Quilotoa area
Quilotoa Lagoon viewpoint	Quilotoa National Park
Lunch	Local restaurant

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price starts from $66.70 per person. This includes a delicious lunch, a knowledgeable driver/guide, private transportation, and entrance fees of $2.

Participants can also opt for additional activities like mule rides ($10), canoe rides ($5), and a visit to Toachi canyon ($1). The tour offers excellent value, considering the included experiences and services.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or interested in culture, this tour provides a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price.

Participant Requirements

Moderate physical fitness is required for the hike to the Quilotoa Lagoon crater rim, as the ascent can be challenging for some participants.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Service animals are allowed, but dietary requirements should be communicated at the time of booking.

Visitors should dress appropriately for varying weather conditions, as the location can experience significant changes in temperature and precipitation.

Traveler Experiences and Recommendations

Positive feedback from travelers on the tour guides’ deep knowledge and hospitable nature has enhanced the overall experience for many participants.

Some found the hike challenging, especially the ascent, but rewarding. Reviewers recommend packing snacks, water, and wearing appropriate footwear for the hike.

Despite the moderate difficulty, the tour is well-organized, offering a variety of engaging experiences. Participants consistently rate the Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets tour highly, with 96% recommending it and an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 25 reviews.

Exploring the Local Craft Market

A key highlight of the Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets tour is the visit to a local craft market.

Travelers can browse an array of handmade items, from vibrant textiles and intricate woodcarvings to vibrant ceramics and jewelry. This is an opportunity to interact with skilled artisans and gain insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Haggling is expected, so visitors can practice their bargaining skills to snag unique souvenirs. The market’s lively atmosphere and kaleidoscope of colors make it a captivating stop on the day’s itinerary, providing a glimpse into Ecuador’s thriving artisan community.

Visiting a Highlander Family Home

As part of the Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets tour, visitors have the opportunity to step into the home of a local Highlander family.

This unique experience allows them to learn about the traditional way of life in the Andes. Guests are welcomed into the family’s humble abode, where they’ll see the simple yet functional layout and handmade furnishings.

The host shares insights into their daily routines, customs, and the importance of community in their culture.

It’s a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the resilience and self-sufficiency of these highland communities.

Hiking and Mule Riding at Quilotoa Lagoon

Though the hike around Quilotoa Lagoon’s crater rim offers stunning vistas, some travelers may opt for a more leisurely approach by taking a mule ride instead.

The mule ride allows visitors to admire the lake’s emerald waters and mountainous surroundings without the physical exertion of hiking.

While the hike can be challenging, especially on the ascent, many travelers find the experience rewarding.

Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and bring snacks and water to ensure a comfortable trek.

Regardless of their chosen method, travelers are guaranteed breathtaking views and a memorable experience at the Quilotoa Lagoon.

Sum Up

This immersive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Quilotoa Lagoon and take in the vibrant local culture. From the vibrant craft market to the intimate encounter with a Highlander family, this well-organized day trip from Quito promises an unforgettable blend of nature and cultural discovery, making it a must-do for any traveler seeking an authentic adventure.