Journey from Quito to Baños via Quilotoa

Quilotoa - The tour begins with an early morning departure from Quito. On the first day, the journey leads to Quilotoa Crater Lake, with several stops along the way. Depending on the departure day, there will be a visit to one of the traditional indigenous markets, either in Pujilí or Zumbahua, which operate weekly and where locals gather to sell their goods. Another stop includes the village of Tigua, renowned for its artists who have gained acclaim for painting indigenous traditions and Andean landscapes on goatskin. Additionally, there will be a stop at the Toachi canyons before proceeding to Quilotoa. Upon arrival, participants can hike part of the crater’s edge or descend to the lake (the hike is challenging, but mules can be hired for the return ascent at an additional cost). Lunch will be enjoyed at a locally owned restaurant before continuing to Baños, with a stop to sample traditional ice creams made in the region.

Full Day in Baños

Baños - After breakfast at the hotel, the tour heads east to explore the stunning route of the waterfalls. There is an opportunity to take a short gondola ride across the vast Pastaza River for a close-up view of the “Manto de la Novia” waterfall. Another highlight is the “Pailon Del Diablo” or Devil’s Cauldron waterfall, reached by a 45-minute hike through a forest path. Lunch will be in Baños, followed by an afternoon visit to the famous swing at the end of the world and a tour of the town. The remainder of the afternoon is free for personal exploration.

Return to Quito via Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi National Park - On the third day, the return journey to Quito begins. The first stop is to visit the Salasacas indigenous community and their textile shops in the town’s main square. The tour continues to “Cotopaxi Volcano and National Park,” home to the 5,897-meter-high volcano, considered the highest active volcano in the world. If weather permits, this is a breathtaking sight. During the visit to the National Park, the natural environment, flora, and fauna will be explored with insights from a naturalist guide. There will be a hike around Limpiopungo Lake, situated at the volcano’s base. Lunch will be in the Cotopaxi area before returning to Quito.

• 2 nights accommodation
• National Park fees included
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Quito Area
• All meals provided: breakfast, lunch, and light refreshments
• Bottled water provided
• Knowledgeable driver/guide who is also a photographer
• All activities during the tour are included

• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Gratuities
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
• Dinners

The most popular highlights in the Andes of Ecuador in a personalized trip: We start our visit to the green waters of Quilotoa Crater Lake. We will continue to the adventurous but at the same time relaxing Baños town. We will visit the route of the Waterfalls and the Swing at the end of the world. And for the end of the trip we will hike the trails of the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano. All these destinations in a 3 days tour with Green Adventures, accompanied by our Naturalist Guides - photographers.

• May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Operates in warm and cold weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Passport information is required to print the permits to the National Park

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.