Quilotoa Lagoon Tour: Andes Culture & Views

Take pleasure in a comprehensive day trip to Quilotoa Lagoon commencing from Quito. Relish the stunning panorama of the Avenue of Volcanoes coupled with the Ecuadorian Andes during the journey. Gather knowledge about the native Andes cultures and customs. Undertake a moderate hike around the lagoon.

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Laguna Quilotoa - When the Quilotoa volcano last erupted in 1280, it left behind a gaping caldera 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) across, which is now filled with brilliant turquoise water. The word
    quilotoa
    comes from the local Quechua language, a group native to the central Andes region.
  • Mira Andes Ecuador - Enjoy Andes Mountains Views
  • Tigua - Enjoy naif paintings, culture, and landscape of Tigua
What's Included
    • Guided activities
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Visit to the Tigua Painter’s Community
    • Entrance ticket included
    • Complimentary menu lunch (with private service)
What's Not Included
  • Mule ride ($10.00USD, subject to change)
  • Kayak rental ($3.00USD, subject to change)
  • Meals
  • Tips
Additional Information
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Location
Laguna Quilotoa
Laguna de Quilotoa
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.9
(114 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Reilika_m
Mar 6, 2026
It’s a long drive from... - It’s a long drive from Quito, but the view at the end is very beautiful. The hike down to the bottom of the crater is easy, but the climb back up is very difficult. It’s worth realistically assessing your physical condition, as the altitude is high and it’s hard to breathe. At the end of the day, we asked the guide to visit a rose farm as well, and he arranged it. Many thanks to her!
Review provided by Viator
Sara_h
Feb 23, 2026
Amazing experience MUST DO - I had the absolute best experience hiking Quilotoa with Pamela as my guide. She is incredibly knowledgeable, so sweet, and extremely attentive throughout the entire hike. From the start, she made everyone feel comfortable and supported, and her passion for what she does really shows. The hike back up is definitely steep and challenging, but Pamela gives the best motivation and encouragement exactly when you need it most. She checked in often, kept the energy positive, and made the whole experience enjoyable and rewarding. She truly is amazing at her job, and I couldn’t have asked for a better guide. I had such a wonderful time and would highly recommend Pamela to anyone visiting Quilotoa!
Review provided by Viator
Pamela
Feb 2, 2026
A unique view of the Quilotoa - Hiking through the Quilotoa crater is a super interesting adventure since in order for you to see the sunrise, you have to leave the hotel type 4:30 A. M. So when you walk through the crater you can see the sunrise.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Roger_w
Feb 1, 2026
Memorable and great value experience - Due to a scheduling complications I ended up taking a day trip to Baños instead of this one. However, this was not an inconvenience and trip was still fantastic. Irene was a highly knowledgeable, friendly and entertaining guide and made sure the day was memorable and went smoothly. The day was filled with some wonderful sights and experiences. Thank you and highly recommended!.
Review provided by Viator
Njgirl19671
Dec 22, 2025
Great Day - Long but enjoyable day. The scenary all the way and back was breathtaking. Carlos kept us in time with his safe driving. Irene was the best guide that money can buy. Her knowledge and enthusiasm was awesome and much appreciated. Thanks for a great day.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cori_o
Dec 8, 2025
Great day trip from Quito - This was a great day trip from Quito and worth doing separately from Cotopaxi if you want to do the hikes. We had an unbelievably sunny day for it being the rainy season, and we were able to see so many beautiful mountain peaks on the drive. Our guide Pamela was so friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. The hike is short but quite steep. Our driver Ivan was also great, and the pick up/drop off from the hotel is a nice touch.
Review provided by Viator
Taiyang_l
Dec 1, 2025
Beautiful lake - Diego drove us to and from the lake, along with a couple stops to visit the local people to see how they lived. The lake was very beautiful and must be hiked quickly before the clouds and rain come in around 2 pm. Recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, rain jacket and water to hike to and from the lake.
Review provided by Viator
Deborah_w
Nov 19, 2025
The experience at... - The experience at Quilotoa Lagoon & Volcanoes Avenue exceeded our expectations. Our guide Javier was so informative about Quito, Ecuador and the sights. We learned so much and also experienced the mule ride back up the mountain from the lagoon.
Review provided by Viator
Shula_r
Jul 30, 2025
The incredible Lagoon tour - Seeing a lagoon that is the result of a volcanic eruption is amazing. The tour guide Joshua is amazing . His knowledge of the area and the culture is extensive , his English is perfect. He has great relationships and he builds immediate rapport with the group.
Review provided by Viator
Carla
Feb 3, 2026
The color water is unreal - No matter how many photos you see, nothing prepares you for the deep turquoise blue of the lagoon inside the crater. The view from the glass viewpoints is breathtaking. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Ecuador. I recommend going down to the shore to appreciate the magnitude of the volcano walls and, if you can, rent a kayak. A place that leaves you speechless!"
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $89
up to 12 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).