Hiking Day-Trip to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito

Setting out on a day-trip to Quilotoa Lagoon from Quito is a breathtaking adventure. This guided tour offers round-trip transportation, a visit to local markets, and a hearty lunch, all while accommodating a small group for personalized service. The moderate trek requires a reasonable fitness level, featuring a 30-minute descent and a 1-2 hour uphill return. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the vibrant culture of the Tigua community and their unique artwork, making this expedition truly unforgettable. For those seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience, this day-trip is not to be missed.

Key Points

• A full-day guided hiking trip from Quito to the scenic Quilotoa Lagoon, a volcanic crater 103 miles from the city.
• Includes round-trip transport, visits to local markets, and a hearty lunch, as well as optional mule or horse hire for the return hike.
• Small-group tour limited to 12 participants, requiring a moderate fitness level for the 30-minute descent and 1-2 hour return hike.
• Opportunity to learn about the unique artwork and mountain life of the Tigua community during the cultural experience.
• Proper preparation and gear, such as warm layers and sturdy hiking shoes, are essential due to the high elevation of Quilotoa at 12,467 feet.

Overview of the Hiking Trip

This full-day guided hiking trip from Quito takes visitors to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a vibrant Andean destination.

The tour includes round-trip transport, a visit to a local market, and a hearty lunch. Trekkers will experience the region’s rich cultures and hike into a volcanic crater.

The small-group tour, limited to 12 people, offers personalized service. Participants will explore a mountain village known for its traditional artwork.

With moderate fitness required, the trek down to the lagoon takes about 30 minutes, while the return uphill hike is 1-2 hours, with an option to hire a mule or horse.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at 6:45 AM when participants meet at HELADOS CAPRICHITO FRESH "4 A" in Quito for a 7 AM departure.

The group will travel on the Pan-American Highway, stopping in Latacunga. Depending on the day, they’ll visit an indigenous market in Saquisil, Pujili, or Zimbahua.

The tour travels the Pan-American Highway, stopping in Latacunga, and may visit indigenous markets in Saquisil, Pujili, or Zimbahua.

The main highlight is hiking to Quilotoa Lagoon, a collapsed volcanic crater 103 miles from Quito. The descent takes 30 minutes, but the uphill return hike is 1-2 hours, climbing 919 feet. An option to hire a mule or horse is available for the return.

After the hike, the group will enjoy a local lunch and visit the community of Tigua known for its unique artwork.

Hiking to Quilotoa Lagoon

Although the trek down to Quilotoa Lagoon is relatively short, taking around 30 minutes, the return hike up to the rim is a more strenuous endeavor.

The uphill climb spans approximately 1 to 2 hours, covering an elevation gain of 919 feet (280 meters). Visitors have the option to hire a mule or horse for the return trip if desired.

The hike requires a moderate fitness level and isn’t recommended for those with back problems or limited mobility. Proper preparation and appropriate gear, such as sturdy hiking shoes and warm layers, are essential for this scenic but challenging trek.

Lunch and Cultural Experience

After the challenging hike, visitors can enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant.

This cultural experience allows them to learn about the Tigua community, known for its unique artwork using chicken feather brushes on sheep hide.

Through the art, travelers gain insights into the mountain life and traditions of the region.

The art offers travelers unique insights into the mountain life and traditions of the region.

The lunch and visit to the community provide a well-rounded understanding of the local culture, complementing the physical exploration of the Quilotoa Lagoon.

This all-inclusive tour offers an immersive experience beyond just the hiking itself.

Important Information

Quilotoa’s elevation of 12,467 feet (3,800 meters) means proper acclimatization is recommended before tackling this day trip.

The hike isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, as the trail requires a moderate level of fitness.

Visitors should come prepared with:

1. Warm clothes, waterproof jacket, gloves, sunscreen, hat, and hiking shoes with extra socks and pants.

2. The descent to the lagoon takes about 30 minutes, but the return uphill hike can take 1 to 2 hours, climbing 919 feet (280 meters).

3. An option to hire a mule or horse is available for the return journey.

Booking and Review Information

The tour price starts from $83.00 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour has a review rating of 4.0 based on 1 review, with positive feedback on the stops and guide’s knowledge, but a note about the difficulty of the trail.

The booking process is straightforward, and the reviews suggest a solid hiking experience, albeit with some physical challenges.

Travelers should carefully consider their fitness level before booking this Quilotoa Lagoon day-trip from Quito.

Getting to the Starting Point

Travelers meet at HELADOS CAPRICHITO FRESH "4 A" in Quito at 6:45 AM for a 7 AM departure on this Quilotoa Lagoon day-trip.

From there, the group travels along the Pan-American Highway, making a stop in Latacunga.

The itinerary includes:

1. Stopping at an indigenous market, such as Saquisil, Pujili, or Zimbahua, depending on the day.

2. Hiking to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a collapsed volcanic crater located approximately 103 miles (166 km) from Quito.

3. Enjoying a hearty lunch at a local restaurant and visiting the community of Tigua, known for its unique feather-brush artwork on sheep hide.

Sum Up

The Quilotoa Lagoon day-trip from Quito offers an unforgettable adventure. Explore the stunning volcanic crater, trek through the picturesque landscape, and learn about the vibrant local culture. With round-trip transportation, a guided tour, and a delicious lunch, this small-group excursion provides a hassle-free and personalized experience. Don’t miss the chance to witness the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon and create lasting memories on this exceptional hiking day-trip.