Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch

Exploring the breathtaking Quilotoa Lake is a must-do activity for travelers in Ecuador. The Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch offers an immersive experience, taking visitors on a scenic journey through the country’s stunning landscapes. Rated 4.5/5 and awarded the Badge of Excellence, this tour provides round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable bilingual guide, and a delicious Ecuadorian lunch. Suitable for moderately fit travelers, the tour features a variety of activities, from hiking to visiting artisan workshops, allowing participants to fully enjoy the local culture. With small group sizes, this personalized experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ecuador.

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Lunch Experiences In Quito.

Key Points

• A full-day tour of Quilotoa Lake, including round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and a traditional Ecuadorian lunch.
• Opportunity to hike down to the lake’s edge and explore the Toachi River Canyon.
• Small group sizes for personalized attention and accommodation of individual needs and interests.
• Suitable for moderately fit travelers, with an optional mule ride for the return journey.
• Positive customer reviews highlighting the tour’s breathtaking scenery, friendly guides, and attention to detail.

Tour Overview

The Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch is a highly rated, full-day excursion from Quito, Ecuador that takes visitors to explore the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake and its surrounding cultural attractions.

Earning a 4.5/5 rating based on 23 reviews, this tour has been awarded the Badge of Excellence and is priced from $75 per person, with the exact cost varying based on group size.

The tour includes round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and a delicious Ecuadorian lunch.

Highlights include hiking down to the lake’s turquoise waters, visiting artisan workshops, and learning about the region’s history and legends.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for moderately fit travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 7:00 am with a visit to the stunning Quilotoa Lake, a volcanic crater filled with turquoise waters. Guests then have the opportunity to hike down to the lake’s edge, allowing them free time to explore this natural wonder. The itinerary also includes stops at an artisan workshop in Tigua and the Toachi River Canyon, where participants can learn about the region’s history and legends. For those who prefer a less strenuous return, an optional mule ride back up the steep slopes is available.

Activity	Duration
Visit Quilotoa Lake	–
Hike down to the lake	–
Visit artisan workshop in Tigua	25 minutes
Visit Toachi River Canyon	–
Optional mule ride back up	–

Group Size and Guide

Small group sizes ensure more attention from the bilingual (Spanish – English) guides on this Quilotoa tour.

These knowledgeable guides accompany the group throughout the day, providing insightful commentary on the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

The small group setting allows for a more personalized experience, with the guide able to cater to individual needs and interests.

Travelers can expect a friendly and informative tour led by professionals who are passionate about sharing the beauty of Quilotoa.

The provided tourist transport ensures a comfortable and convenient journey to the various sites, allowing guests to fully enjoy the cultural and scenic highlights of this remarkable destination.

Additional Information

Prior to the tour, travelers receive a pickup confirmation one day in advance.

However, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with serious medical conditions, as the itinerary involves moderate physical fitness, including a hike down to the Quilotoa Lake.

Pregnant travelers should also exercise caution when considering this excursion. The tour isn’t recommended for those who may struggle with the steep slopes and challenging terrain.

It’s important for participants to have a good level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience. While the scenery is breathtaking, the journey can be demanding, so travelers should assess their capabilities before booking the tour.

Customer Reviews

Customers have generally provided positive feedback on the Quilotoa Tour, praising the tour guides’ friendliness and knowledge, as well as the breathtaking scenery and delicious Ecuadorian lunch.

Many reviewers have been impressed by the tour’s attention to detail, with one noting that the guides "clearly love what they do and are passionate about sharing the history and culture of the region."

However, some have cautioned that the 3-hour drive and steep hikes may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness or with knee issues.

Cultural Experience

Along With the natural wonders of Quilotoa Lake, the Quilotoa Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the local culture of Ecuador.

Travelers can visit the town of Pujili to learn about the traditional guinea pig culture, spending 20 minutes with a local family free of charge.

On top of that, the tour includes a stop in the artist town of Tigua, where visitors can discover the unique Naif art that has been developed by the indigenous Kichwa community over generations.

The cultural experience on this tour provides an opportunity to:

1. Witness the traditional ways of life in Pujili

2. Appreciate the vibrant Naif art of Tigua

3. Interact with local communities

4. Gain a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s diverse heritage

Booking and Pricing

The tour’s booking price starts at $75.00 per person, with the final cost varying based on the group size.

Travelers can conveniently cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience begins without incurring any fees.

Pickup for the tour is confirmed the day before, ensuring a smooth start to the day.

The small group size ensures participants receive more personalized attention from the bilingual (Spanish-English) guides throughout the adventure.

With the tour including transportation in a tourist vehicle, travelers can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to the Quilotoa region.

Cancellation Policy

One of the attractive features of the Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch is its flexible cancellation policy, which allows travelers to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours prior to the tour’s start without incurring any fees. This policy provides peace of mind and flexibility, ensuring that customers can plan their trip with confidence.

The key benefits of this cancellation policy include:

1. No financial penalties for last-minute changes in plans.

2. Ability to reschedule the tour if needed.

3. Hassle-free booking process, as customers don’t have to worry about non-refundable deposits.

4. Convenient for those with unpredictable schedules or unexpected events that may arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Hike Down to the Lake?

For the hike down to the lake, one should bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, sun protection, and layers of clothing. It’s also a good idea to bring trekking poles to assist with the descent and ascent.

Is There an Option to Skip the Hike and Just Visit the Lake?

Yes, there is an option to skip the hike down to the Quilotoa Lake. Visitors can take a mule ride instead, which allows them to reach the lake without the strenuous hike down and back up the steep slopes.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include More Stops or Activities?

Yes, the tour can likely be extended to include more stops or activities. Tour operators often offer customizable itineraries that allow travelers to tailor the experience to their interests and fitness levels.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has moderate fitness requirements and is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. There are no strict age restrictions, but younger children may struggle with the hiking involved.

Can the Tour Be Customized for My Specific Interests?

The tour can likely be customized to suit your specific interests. Many tour operators offer the flexibility to tailor itineraries based on traveler preferences, such as adding or adjusting activities within the overall tour schedule. It’s best to inquire directly about customization options.

Recap

The Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch offers travelers a chance to enjoy Ecuador’s stunning natural beauty.

With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch included, this tour provides a well-rounded and personalized experience.

Suitable for moderately fit individuals, the tour features scenic hikes, cultural interactions, and visits to artisan workshops, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to explore Quilotoa’s breathtaking landscapes.