Quilotoa Crater Lagoon: Hiking and Cultural Small Group Full Day Tour

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, the Quilotoa Crater Lagoon beckons adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike. This small group tour offers a chance to explore this stunning natural wonder and take in the rich indigenous heritage of the region. From marveling at the vibrant colors of a traditional market to hiking the crater’s edge, participants can expect an unforgettable day filled with breathtaking vistas and authentic cultural experiences. But the true magic of this tour lies in the unexpected…

About Your Stay

• A full-day tour exploring Quilotoa Crater Lagoon and indigenous villages with a limited group size for a personalized experience.
• Highlights include traditional markets, hiking around the crater, and culture with the Tigua community.
• Comfortable air-conditioned transportation provided from Quito, and knowledgeable, multilingual guides available throughout the tour.
• Moderate fitness level recommended due to physical activity, and travel insurance is required.
• Opportunity to observe traditional Tigua painting and textile weaving demonstrations, and enjoy cultural performances.

Tour Overview

This full-day Quilotoa Crater Lagoon and indigenous villages tour takes visitors from Quito on a small-group adventure.

The tour is limited to 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience. Highlights include exploring traditional markets, hiking around the mesmerizing Quilotoa Crater Lagoon, and visiting the Tigua community to learn about Ecuador’s indigenous heritage.

Transportation from and to Quito hotels is provided in a comfortable air-conditioned bus. Knowledgeable, multilingual guides are on hand to provide educational insights throughout the day.

With a 5.0 rating from 8 reviews, this tour offers an immersive cultural experience at a cost of $96.02 per person.

Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary for this Quilotoa Crater Lagoon and indigenous villages tour offers a well-rounded cultural experience.

Explore traditional markets in Saquisili or Pujili, where you’ll find an array of local handicrafts and produce.

Then, trek around the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lagoon, an easy to moderate hike with an optional mule ride for the uphill sections.

Visit the Tigua community to learn about Ecuador’s indigenous heritage and way of life.

The tour includes a typical Ecuadorian lunch, served around 3:30 PM, to immerse you in the local cuisine.

A typical Ecuadorian lunch is served around 3:30 PM, immersing you in the local cuisine during this tour.

This comprehensive itinerary provides a glimpse into the region’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Transportation and Assistance

To ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience, private transportation is provided from and to Quito’s hotels in a modern, air-conditioned bus.

Knowledgeable, multilingual guides are available throughout the tour to offer educational insights and 24/7 assistance in Dutch, English, and Spanish.

Their expertise ensures smooth navigation and a deeper understanding of the local culture and history.

Whether you need help with logistics, have questions about the itinerary, or simply want to learn more, the guides are there to provide the necessary support and make your tour a memorable one.

Important Information

What should you prepare for this tour? Ensure you have warm and waterproof clothing, water, sunblock, sunglasses, and your passport. Given the moderate physical activity, a reasonable fitness level is recommended. Pregnant travelers, those with serious medical conditions, or back problems should avoid this tour. Travel insurance, including personal medical coverage, is necessary.

| Preparation | Health Considerations |

| — | — |

| Warm/waterproof clothing | Moderate fitness level |

| Water, sunblock, sunglasses | Not suitable for medical issues |

| Passport | Travel insurance required |

Food safety should also be prioritized. Wash your hands before eating and avoid untested street food to prevent potential illness. Flexibility is key, as the itinerary may change due to weather, park regulations, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Additional Notes

Although the itinerary may change due to weather, National Park regulations, or unforeseen circumstances, tour organizers strive to maintain flexibility.

Travelers should exercise caution with food to avoid illness. A small donation to local communities visited is appreciated as a gesture of goodwill. Tipping for guides and drivers is encouraged, as their base pay is often low.

Local Culture and Tradition

One of the highlights of the Quilotoa Crater Lagoon tour is the opportunity to visit the Tigua community and learn about Ecuador’s indigenous heritage. The Tigua people are known for their vibrant paintings and traditional textiles. Visitors can enjoy the local way of life, observing artisans at work and gaining insights into their cultural practices.

| Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Painting Demonstration | Observe Tigua artists creating their iconic paintings on sheep leather. |

| Textile Weaving | Watch skilled weavers using traditional looms to produce colorful textiles. |

| Cultural Performance | Enjoy a traditional music and dance performance by the Tigua community. |

The Tigua visit provides a unique window into the rich cultural tapestry of Ecuador, allowing travelers to connect with the country’s indigenous roots.

Booking and Pricing

The Quilotoa Crater Lagoon tour can be booked directly through the tour provider’s website. Prices start at $96.02 per person for the full-day excursion.

The small-group tour is limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Quito, a local guide, and a typical Ecuadorian lunch.

Travelers should ensure they’ve the necessary travel insurance and prepare for the moderate hiking involved. While the itinerary is generally fixed, there may be minor changes due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot on this popular tour.

Questions About Your Stay

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness. Pregnant guests or those with serious medical conditions may want to consult their doctor before booking.

Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Tour Booking?

Yes, you can cancel or reschedule your tour booking. Cancellations made at least 24 hours prior to the tour date are eligible for a full refund. Rescheduling is also possible subject to availability.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is typically fixed, but the company may be able to accommodate customizations for private groups or special requests. Travelers should inquire about any flexibility or personalization options when booking the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. However, a typical Ecuadorian lunch is included, so you may want to save your snacks for the hike around the Quilotoa Crater Lagoon.

What Is the Group Size on a Typical Tour Day?

The tours typically have a small group size, limited to 15 people. This allows for a more personalized experience as you explore the Quilotoa Crater Lagoon and indigenous villages with your guide.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Quilotoa Crater Lagoon tour offers an immersive experience exploring Ecuador’s stunning landscapes and rich indigenous heritage. With a small group, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation, participants can fully appreciate the cultural and natural beauty of this unique destination. The tour’s highlights include a hike around the breathtaking crater lagoon and a visit to the Tigua community to witness vibrant art and textiles.