Exploring the majestic Quilotoa Lagoon is a must-do for any adventurous traveler. The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an all-inclusive package that promises an unforgettable experience. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch, this tour caters to the needs of modern explorers. While the descent into the crater may present some challenges, the stunning landscapes and expert guidance make this tour a highly recommended choice. Discover why travelers rave about this unique cultural adventure.
Key Points
- The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa includes private transportation, a professional guide, and lunch, with the hike and descent to the lagoon covered in the price.
- The tour offers moderate hiking to the lagoon’s edge, with challenging descent options, and rental equipment like hiking sticks or horse rides available for an additional cost.
- The tour has mixed reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and the Quilotoa Lagoon experience, but some concerns about hidden fees and delays.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infants are allowed on laps, and the tour operator is committed to improving services based on customer feedback.
- The tour has an impressive 4.8-star rating based on 11 reviews, with the guides playing a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience.
Tour Overview and Details
The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an immersive hiking and descent experience to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. Priced from $135.50 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a professional guide, and lunch.
Departing from Quito, the tour takes travelers on a journey to explore the local culture, markets, and indigenous communities. The moderate hike to the lagoon’s edge and descent is challenging but rewarding, with an option to rent hiking sticks or ride a horse.
The tour ends back at the starting point, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Fascinated by the past? Here are other historical experiences we've covered in Quito
Inclusions and Exclusions
As part of the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa, the package includes private transportation, a professional tourism guide, and a provided lunch.
Visitors can also expect to enjoy tourist visits and the descent to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. The entrance fee to the lagoon is covered by the tour.
However, personal expenses and some hidden fees, like a $4 donation, aren’t included.
While the tour is moderate in difficulty, options like renting hiking sticks or taking a horse ride up are available for an additional cost.
Physical Requirements and Accessibility
Moderate physical fitness is required for the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa. The hike to the lagoon and descent down into the crater can be challenging.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome to sit on laps. Travelers can rent hiking sticks for $10 or pay the same amount for a horse ride up from the lagoon.
The tour is suited for most travelers, though those with mobility issues may struggle with the steep terrain. The hike is rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the lagoon, but comes with physical demands that participants should consider before booking.
Traveler Experiences and Feedback
Eleven reviews have been left for the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa, and all travelers have recommended the experience.
Tourists consistently praise the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, like Kevin, Gabriel, and Victor, who provide a culturally immersive experience. The breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon is described as a highlight, though the challenging hike down is rewarding.
Knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides like Kevin, Gabriel, and Victor provide a culturally immersive experience, with the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon as a highlight.
Some travelers noted delays and hidden fees, but overall, they enjoyed the educational visits to local markets and indigenous homes.
The tour operator expresses gratitude for traveler support and commitment to improving services based on feedback.
Guides and Customer Service
How do the guides contribute to the overall experience of the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa? The tour’s knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, like Kevin, Gabriel, and Victor, play a crucial role in making the experience exceptional. They provide valuable insights into the local culture, history, and ecology, enriching the educational aspect of the tour. Their positive interactions with travelers and emphasis on culture create a welcoming atmosphere. The host’s commitment to addressing traveler concerns and improving services further enhances the customer service experience. This dedication to quality is evident in the tour’s impressive 4.8-star rating based on 11 reviews.
| Guide Traits | Kevin | Gabriel | Victor |
| — | — | — | — |
| Knowledge | Excellent | Comprehensive | Insightful |
| Enthusiasm | Engaging | Captivating | Energetic |
| Interactions | Positive | Welcoming | Personable |
| Cultural Insights | Enriching | Informative | Immersive |
| Commitment to Quality | Proactive | Responsive | Attentive |
Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in Quito
What to Expect on the Cultural Tour
Travelers embarking on the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa can expect a dynamic and immersive experience that showcases the region’s natural wonders and vibrant indigenous culture.
The tour includes private transportation and a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead the group on a hike down to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. Along the way, visitors will have the opportunity to explore local markets, interact with indigenous communities, and savor a included lunch.
While the hike down can be moderate, an option to rent hiking sticks or hire a horse is available. The tour offers a well-rounded culture.
Preparing for the Quilotoa Lagoon Adventure
Preparing for the Quilotoa Lagoon Adventure
Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes and dress in layers. Bring sun protection, snacks, and plenty of water. The hike down to the lagoon is moderate, but the return climb can be challenging.
Consider renting hiking sticks or hiring a horse if needed. Prepare for some hidden fees, like the $4 for required donations.
The tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch, but personal expenses are extra.
With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to explore the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon and learn about the local culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the Hiking and Descent?
The tour guides provide safety equipment like hiking sticks and ensure participants’ abilities match the moderate fitness level required. They also monitor the group closely during the descent to the lagoon to prevent accidents.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour includes lunch, but you’re welcome to pack additional items for the day if you’d like. Just be mindful of any dietary restrictions or permissions.
Is There Any Age Limit or Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There’s no age limit, but infants must sit on laps. The tour is suitable for a range of ages, though a moderate fitness level is required for the hiking and descent to the lagoon.
Do I Need to Have Prior Hiking Experience to Join This Tour?
You don’t need prior hiking experience to join this tour, but a moderate fitness level is required. The hike down to the lagoon is challenging, though the tour offers options like renting hiking sticks or taking a horse ride back up.
What Should I Do if I Experience Altitude Sickness During the Tour?
If experiencing altitude sickness, notify the guide immediately. They’re trained to handle such situations and can provide oxygen, rest breaks, or recommend returning to a lower elevation if needed to ensure the traveler’s safety and comfort.
The Sum Up
The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an unforgettable adventure at $135.50 per person. Travelers can expect a moderate hike, stunning landscapes, and a knowledgeable guide. While the descent presents challenges, rental options are available. Reviewers praise the tour’s inclusions and the expertise of the staff, making it a highly recommended experience for those seeking an immersive cultural journey.
More City Tours in Quito
More Tours in Quito
More Tour Reviews in Quito
Still browsing? Here are more Quito experiences we've covered recently
- Private Hiking Tour to Ruco Pichincha & Teleferico
- Private Tour to Mindo With Hummingbird Reserve, Tarabita and Butterfly Farm
- Cotopaxi and Banos: an Journey Between Volcanoes and Waterfalls
- Ecuador in 9 Days
- Ecuador Volcano Avenue 5 Days
- Full Day Tour Baños
- Antisana Chronicles:Hiking Meets Biking in Natures Grand Arena!
- 2 Day 1 Night Tour Cotopaxi-Quilotoa With Hotel From Quito
- Tour to Mindo, Private and Shared
- Private Transpor for Tours, Transfers, Visits, Etc, for 8 Hours
- 17- Day Private Tour – Ecuador Colorful – Hotels Comfort Style
- Cotopaxi and Banos 2-Days From Quito