1-Day Walking Down to Quilotoa Lagoon

The Quilotoa Lagoon, a stunning volcanic crater lake in Ecuador, beckons adventurous travelers to embark on a captivating 1-day walking excursion. This immersive experience allows visitors to trek through scenic landscapes, interact with local cultures, and witness traditional crafts. While the hike requires moderate fitness, mule rides are available for those needing assistance. With stops at vibrant markets and opportunities to explore the crater’s beauty, this tour promises an unforgettable journey. What awaits those who accept the challenge?

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Key Points

Full-day excursion from Quito to explore the stunning Quilotoa volcanic crater lake.
Opportunity to hike down to the bottom of the crater, requiring a moderate fitness level.
Visits to local markets and cultural hubs provide insights into the Andean region.
Option to kayak across the turquoise lagoon waters for an additional cost.
Small-group tour with personalized attention from a professional guide.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day excursion from Quito takes visitors on a journey through Ecuador’s stunning "Avenue of the Volcanoes" to the Quilotoa volcanic crater lake.

Along the way, you’ll visit the town of Machachi, the local market in Pujili, and the cultural hub of Tigua.

The highlight is the opportunity to walk down to the bottom of the Quilotoa crater, with the option to kayak across the turquoise lagoon waters for an additional cost.

This small-group tour provides personalized attention from a professional English-speaking guide and driver throughout the day.

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Inclusions and Pricing

The tour is priced from $98.00 per person, with the price varying based on group size.

The cost includes a professional English-speaking guide/driver, pick-up/drop-off from Quito airport, admission to the Quilotoa reserve, travel insurance, and lunch.

Mule back riding is available for an additional $10 USD per person.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for flexibility.

This is a private tour, ensuring personalized attention from the guide throughout the day’s activities in Ecuador’s "Avenue of the Volcanoes."

Group Size and Experience

Offered as a private tour, only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide throughout the day’s activities in Ecuador’s "Avenue of the Volcanoes."

The small group size allows for a more intimate experience, catering to your interests and needs. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, so you can plan your day with confidence.

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation. However, it may not be suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions or physical limitations, so please review the health and accessibility information carefully before reserving your spot.

Health and Accessibility Information

Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is located near public transportation.

The hike down to the Quilotoa crater requires a moderate fitness level. Travelers with back problems, pregnant women, and those with heart conditions or serious medical issues shouldn’t attempt the descent.

The challenging trail isn’t recommended for those unable to handle steep, uneven terrain. However, mule rides are available for $10 if needed.

Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Quilotoa Lagoon tour, with a perfect 5.0 rating across 4 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor.

The tour company thoroughly vets all reviews for authenticity, ensuring transparency.

Reviewers highlight the guide’s expertise, the breathtaking scenery, and a well-organized itinerary that allows ample time to explore the crater.

Several mention the option to hike down to the lagoon’s edge, praising the challenging yet rewarding experience.

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Exploring the Quilotoa Crater

As visitors approach the rim of the Quilotoa crater, they’re immediately captivated by the vibrant turquoise waters that fill the volcanic basin.

The trek down to the lagoon’s edge is a challenging but rewarding experience. The path is steep and rocky, requiring sturdy footwear. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the crater’s dramatic walls and the shimmering lake below.

Once at the bottom, travelers can explore the shore, skip stones across the tranquil waters, and even opt for a kayak ride to fully enjoy this unique volcanic landscape.

Cultural Immersion Along the Route

The journey to Quilotoa offers more than just the stunning volcanic lake. Along the way, travelers can enjoy Ecuador’s vibrant culture.

They’ll stop in the town of Machachi, known for its lively local market filled with handicrafts, produce, and traditional dress.

In Pujili, they’ll discover a bustling artisan community showcasing handwoven textiles and pottery.

And in Tigua, they’ll visit with indigenous families to learn about their centuries-old painting techniques.

These cultural encounters provide rich insights into the history and daily life of the Andean region, complementing the natural wonders of the Quilotoa crater.

Preparing for the Hike and Descent

Before embarking on the hike down to Quilotoa Lagoon, it’s important to prepare properly.

Wear sturdy, non-slip hiking boots and dress in layers to account for the changing weather. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Trekking poles can make the descent easier on your knees.

Start early in the day to avoid the midday heat. The trail is well-marked, but it’s still a good idea to have a map or GPS.

Be mindful of your fitness level, as the hike down and back up can be strenuous. Take breaks as needed and listen to your body.

With the right preparation, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views.

Sum Up

This 1-day walking adventure to Quilotoa Lagoon offers an unforgettable experience. Witness stunning landscapes, interact with local cultures, and explore the beauty of the volcanic crater. With support options like mule rides, the hike is accessible to different fitness levels. Enjoy the vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and indigenous communities along the route for an authentic exploration of Ecuador’s natural and cultural treasures.