Nestled deep within the captivating Ecuadorian Andes, the Quilotoa Lagoon beckons travelers with its stunning turquoise hues and volcanic origins. This full-day excursion promises an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and cultural riches, led by knowledgeable bilingual guides. From Quito, the journey unveils breathtaking vistas, offering visitors a chance to uncover the lagoon’s secrets and explore the vibrant indigenous heritage that thrives in this remarkable landscape. What awaits those who embark on this adventure?
About Your Stay
- Set out on a full-day excursion to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a volcanic crater lake in the Ecuadorian Andes.
- Enjoy a guided tour with a bilingual guide, transportation, breakfast, and lunch included.
- Explore the lagoon’s vibrant turquoise waters and hike to the crater’s edge or descend into the caldera.
- Immerse in the indigenous Quechua culture, interact with local artisans, and savor authentic Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Benefit from a maximum group size of 15 for an intimate and personalized experience.
Tour Overview
The Full-day Quilotoa tour takes visitors on an immersive journey to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a breathtaking volcanic crater lake located in the Ecuadorian Andes.
This full-day excursion departs from Quito, offering a bilingual guide, authorized transportation, and entrance to the lagoon.
Travelers can expect a well-rounded experience, including breakfast, lunch, and the option to partake in activities like kayaking or horseback riding for an additional cost.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides an intimate and personalized exploration of this natural wonder.
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Inclusions
The Full-day Quilotoa tour includes a bilingual guide to provide informative insights throughout the day. Authorized transportation and an entrance ticket to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon are also included. Travelers can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and lunch, though alcoholic beverages and extra food/drinks must be paid for separately. Optional activities like kayaking and horseback riding are available at an additional cost. The tour is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Group size is limited to 15 travelers maximum.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| — | — |
| Bilingual guide | Alcoholic beverages |
| Authorized transportation | Extra food and drinks |
| Entrance ticket to Quilotoa Lagoon | Tips |
| Breakfast and lunch | Optional activities (kayak, horse riding) |
| | Anything not listed as included |
Meeting and Pickup
The Full-day Quilotoa tour offers pickup from Centro Histórico in Quito, Ecuador, as the primary meeting point.
Alternatively, travelers can meet at the Friends Hotel & Rooftop, located at Junín Oe1-61 y.
Pickup from hotels inside or outside the Historic Center is available for a small additional cost.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, and infants mustn’t sit on laps.
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, but transportation arrangements are available for groups over four.
Additional Information
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Full-day Quilotoa tour. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required. Infants must not sit on laps, and strollers are not allowed. Pets are also not permitted. The maximum group size is 15 travelers, but transportation arrangements are available for groups over four.
| Criteria | Details |
|———-|———|
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Not accessible |
| Recommendation for Pregnant Travelers | Not recommended |
| Recommendation for Travelers with Medical Conditions | Not suitable for those with heart problems or serious conditions |
| Fitness Level Required | Moderate |
| Infants | Must not sit on laps |
| Stroller Accessibility | Not accessible |
| Pets | Not permitted |
| Maximum Group Size | 15 travelers |
| Transportation for Larger Groups | Available for groups over four |
Exploring the Quilotoa Lagoon
Quilotoa Lagoon, the centerpiece of this tour, beckons visitors with its striking turquoise waters nestled within a breathtaking volcanic crater.
Travelers can marvel at the lagoon’s natural beauty from the crater’s edge or venture down into the caldera for a closer look. The descent and ascent require moderate fitness, but the panoramic views and serene atmosphere make the effort worthwhile.
Travelers can marvel at the lagoon’s natural beauty from the crater’s edge or venture down into the caldera for a closer look. The descent and ascent require moderate fitness, but the panoramic views and serene atmosphere make the effort worthwhile.
Visitors can also opt for optional activities like kayaking or horseback riding to explore the lagoon further.
With its unique geological features and captivating scenery, the Quilotoa Lagoon is a highlight of this immersive full-day excursion.
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Cultural Immersion
As visitors descend into the Quilotoa Lagoon’s caldera, they’ll be immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Guides provide insights into the indigenous Quechua culture, explaining their traditions and way of life. Travelers can interact with local artisans, learning the intricate techniques behind vibrant textiles and handicrafts.
Lunch features authentic Ecuadorian cuisine, allowing participants to savor the flavors that have been passed down through generations.
Throughout the day, the tour offers opportunities to connect with the community, fostering a deeper appreciation for the vibrant cultural heritage of the Andes.
Traveler Reviews
What do travelers have to say about the Full-day Quilotoa tour? According to the reviews, the tour is highly recommended for its unique stops and overall experience.
Travelers praised the tour led by guide Javier for his informative insights into the local culture. The tour is rated 5.0 stars out of 8 reviews, indicating a positive experience.
However, the tour may not be suitable for all travelers, as it requires moderate physical fitness and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or for pregnant individuals.
Questions About Your Stay
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?
The weather can vary throughout the day, with cool temperatures in the morning and afternoon. Visitors should dress in layers and bring sun protection, as the high altitude can make the sun intense.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but additional items purchased on the tour, beyond the included breakfast and lunch, will incur an extra cost. The tour provides the necessary meals and transportation.
Is There a Discount for Groups Larger Than 15?
The tour’s information doesn’t mention any group discounts for parties larger than 15 travelers. However, it notes that transportation arrangements are available for groups over four, suggesting the operator may offer special pricing for larger groups.
How Long Is the Travel Time From Quito to Quilotoa?
The travel time from Quito to Quilotoa is approximately 3 hours each way. The tour company provides authorized transportation to take travelers on the roughly 2-hour drive to reach the iconic Quilotoa Lagoon.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions, but it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Infants must not sit on laps, and the tour may not be suitable for young children.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The Quilotoa excursion offers a captivating adventure in the Ecuadorian Andes. Travelers can explore the stunning volcanic crater lake, enjoy the rich indigenous culture, and enjoy optional activities like kayaking and horseback riding. With a small group size and a bilingual guide, this full-day tour provides an intimate and breathtaking experience surrounded by the region’s natural beauty.
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