This day trip offers you the chance to explore the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, which is situated roughly 2.5 hours to the south of Quito. This unique emerald-hued lake is truly extraordinary. The trip also includes a visit to a nearby indigenous marketplace and a trek down to the water– you can even take a dip if you’re so inclined!
This day trip offers you the chance to explore the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, which is situated roughly 2.5 hours to the south of Quito. This unique emerald-hued lake is truly extraordinary. The trip also includes a visit to a nearby indigenous marketplace and a trek down to the water– you can even take a dip if you’re so inclined!
Quilotoa, a stunning emerald lake nestled within a volcanic crater, is a true treasure of the Andes. Situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters, the lake is surrounded by vibrant indigenous communities. The journey to Quilotoa takes you through the scenic Zumbahua canyon and past various indigenous towns and farmlands.
Depending on the day, visitors will…
Quilotoa, a stunning emerald lake nestled within a volcanic crater, is a true treasure of the Andes. Situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters, the lake is surrounded by vibrant indigenous communities. The journey to Quilotoa takes you through the scenic Zumbahua canyon and past various indigenous towns and farmlands.
Depending on the day, visitors will explore either the Saquisilí (on Thursdays) or Pujilí (on Sundays) indigenous markets, offering a unique contrast to those found in the Imbabura province (Otavalo).
Upon arrival at Quilotoa National Park, the adventure begins with a descent to the lake. Visitors can choose to hike back up or rent a mule for the return journey. After enjoying lunch, the tour continues to Shalala, a community renowned for its exquisite handicrafts.
The weather in Quilotoa can be quite unpredictable, so it is advisable to come prepared with warm and waterproof clothing, with layers being particularly beneficial.
Itinerary
- 7:00 am: Pick up in the New Town (Magic Bean Cafe)
- 7:15 am: Pick up in the Old Town (Plaza San Blas)
- Depart for Saquisili / Pujili / Indigenous markets (depending on the day)
- Arrive at Quilotoa and trek around the crater
- Lunch
- Visit the Tigua community
- Return to Quito
Points of Interest
-
Laguna Quilotoa
-
Free Walking Tour Ecuador
-
Community Adventures
- Private transportation
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- Driver/guide
- Lunch
- Private transportation
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- Driver/guide
- Lunch
- Entrance fees ($2 entrance to park)
- Breakfast
- Additional fees (mule $10 or canoe ride $5, Toachi cañon $1)
- Entrance fees ($2 entrance to park)
- Breakfast
- Additional fees (mule $10 or canoe ride $5, Toachi cañon $1)
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
