Full-day Quilotoa

The Quilotoa full-day tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy Ecuador’s stunning Andean landscape. Featuring the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, the tour also includes visits to vibrant indigenous markets, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers can expect a well-organized experience, with a certified bilingual guide, authorized transportation, and entrance to the lagoon. Sustainability and community engagement are at the forefront of this adventure, ensuring a meaningful and eco-conscious exploration of Ecuador’s natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the region’s stunning vistas or its cultural wonders, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.

Key Points

• The full-day Quilotoa tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Quilotoa Crater Lake, a stunning volcanic feature with vivid turquoise waters.
• The tour emphasizes sustainability, cultural connections, and immersion in the Andean landscape, including visits to local indigenous markets.
• The tour includes a certified bilingual guide, authorized transportation, and entrance ticket to the Quilotoa Lagoon, with pickup options from Quito’s old town.
• Visitors can experience the 12,000-foot deep caldera, hike around the rim, and enjoy various perspectives of the crater lake during the tour.
• The tour promotes eco-friendly practices, supports local businesses, and preserves indigenous cultural heritage through responsible tourism initiatives.

Tour Overview

The full-day Quilotoa tour in Quito, Ecuador offers an exceptional adventure, boasting an impressive 5.0 rating from 8 reviews.

This unique experience emphasizes sustainability, cultural connections, and the breathtaking Andean landscape. Guests will be accompanied by expert bilingual guides and transported comfortably throughout the day.

The tour features the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, a must-see destination for any traveler. Pickup is available directly from the hotel for an additional cost, with a convenient meeting point at Friends Hotel & Rooftop.

The itinerary includes a visit to the vibrant Saquisilí or Pujilí indigenous markets, providing an immersive cultural experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a certified bilingual guide for each activity, as well as authorized transportation and an entrance ticket to the Quilotoa Lagoon.

It doesn’t include alcoholic beverages, breakfast, or any extra food and drinks.

This full-day Quilotoa tour emphasizes sustainability, cultural connections, and the stunning Andean landscape.

Pickup is available at your hotel for an additional cost, or you can meet the group at the designated meeting point near notable landmarks in Quito’s old town.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, not recommended for pregnant travelers, and not suitable for pets.

Pickup and Meeting Points

Pickup is available directly at your hotel for an additional cost, while the designated meeting point is at Friends Hotel & Rooftop, Junín Oe1-61, in Quito’s old town.

This central location is near several notable landmarks, including:

• Santa Catalina de Siena Monastery
• Sucre School
• Manuela Saenz Museum
• Plaza de la Independencia
• Basilica del Voto Nacional

The tour conveniently departs from this easily accessible meeting point at 7:15 AM, ensuring a timely start to the full-day Quilotoa adventure.

Visiting Quito Old Town

After the convenient pickup and transport, the tour begins with a visit to Quito’s historic Old Town.

This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases the city’s colonial architecture, cathedrals, and plazas. The guide provides insights into the area’s rich history and cultural significance. Guests have 20 minutes to explore the area, taking in the sights and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

The tour then moves on to the indigenous markets, offering a glimpse into the vibrant local traditions and way of life.

Throughout the experience, the focus remains on sustainability, cultural connections, and the breathtaking Andean landscape that defines this unique adventure.

Exploring Saquisili Market

Following the pickup and transport, guests are taken to the vibrant indigenous markets of Saquisilí and Pujilí.

These markets offer a unique cultural experience, showcasing the traditional dress, crafts, and produce of the local Andean communities. Visitors can explore the bustling stalls, bargaining for handmade textiles, pottery, and fresh produce.

The markets are a hub of activity, with vendors enthusiastically showcasing their wares and the sounds of lively chatter filling the air.

Key highlights include:

• Browsing the colorful array of locally-crafted textiles and handicrafts
• Observing traditional Andean dress and cultural practices
• Sampling freshly-harvested fruits, vegetables, and other regional specialties
• Engaging with the friendly, welcoming local vendors
• Capturing the vibrant, lively atmosphere of these centuries-old marketplaces

Discovering Quilotoa Crater Lake

The tour then moves on to the highlight of the day – the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake. Formed by the collapse of a volcano, the lake’s vivid turquoise waters and rugged, steep walls create a breathtaking natural wonder. Visitors can peer into the 12,000-foot deep caldera and soak in the serene, otherworldly atmosphere. An optional hike around the rim offers unparalleled views of the crater and the surrounding Andean landscape. The table below showcases the visual splendor of this remarkable destination:

Perspective	Description
Aerial	The lake’s vibrant blue hue contrasts dramatically with the surrounding grey rock.
Waterfront	Towering cliffs frame the still, glassy surface of the crater lake.
Rim Trail	Hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the crater and distant mountain peaks.
Sunrise	The first light of day paints the lake in ever-changing shades of blue and purple.
Sunset	The fading sun casts a warm, golden glow over the serene waters and rugged landscape.

Cultural Connections and Sustainability

Along With the natural wonders, the Quilotoa tour emphasizes cultural connections and sustainability.

Visitors engage with local indigenous communities, learning about traditional ways of life and crafts. The tour also highlights the region’s sustainable tourism initiatives, such as:

• Supporting small, locally-owned businesses
• Promoting eco-friendly transportation
• Educating travelers on environmental conservation
• Preserving indigenous cultural heritage
• Collaborating with community leaders on responsible development

This multifaceted approach ensures the Quilotoa experience isn’t only breathtaking but also meaningful, fostering deeper understanding and appreciation for the region’s people and environment.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking the Full-day Quilotoa tour is a straightforward process, with visitors able to secure their spot online or by contacting the tour operator directly. The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure.

Booking	Cancellation	Refund
Online or Direct	Free up to 24 hours	100%
Confirmation Provided	Fee after 24 hours	None
Lowest Price Guarantee	No-shows forfeit	N/A

This policy provides guests with ample flexibility to adjust their plans as needed, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience for the Quilotoa Crater Lake adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Quilotoa Crater Lake?

The best time to visit Quilotoa Crater Lake is during the dry season from June to September. The clear skies and mild temperatures make it an ideal time to enjoy the stunning turquoise waters and scenic Andean landscape.

Are There Any Altitude Sickness Precautions I Should Take?

Visitors to Quilotoa Crater Lake should take altitude sickness precautions as it’s located at over 12,000 feet. Drink plenty of water, go slowly, and consider taking altitude sickness medication to prevent symptoms like headaches and nausea.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, travelers can extend the tour to include additional activities. They can speak with the tour provider to customize the itinerary and add optional excursions, such as visiting nearby villages or exploring the surrounding Andean landscape.

What Should I Pack for the Day Trip?

For this day trip, travelers should pack a reusable water bottle, light layers of clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and any necessary medication. Bringing snacks is also recommended to fuel the adventure.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options Available?

The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions, but it’s recommended to bring your own snacks and drinks. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options may not be readily available, so it’s best to plan accordingly.

Recap

The Full-day Quilotoa tour offers a captivating adventure through Ecuador’s stunning Andean landscape. Travelers can enjoy the vibrant indigenous culture, explore the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, and engage with the local community. With a certified bilingual guide, convenient transportation, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises a memorable and sustainable experience in Ecuador’s natural beauty.