Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa: Hiking and Descent to the Lagoon All Included

The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the captivating Andean landscape and vibrant indigenous culture. Guided by knowledgeable bilingual experts, participants can embark on a journey that combines hiking and a scenic descent to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon. With options for both adventurous hiking and leisurely horseback riding, the tour caters to a diverse range of preferences, ensuring an enriching experience for nature and culture enthusiasts alike. As the tour includes transportation, lunch, and opportunities for culture, it presents an alluring and accessible way to explore this remarkable region.

Good To Know

• All-inclusive tour package covering hiking, descent, and culture at Quilotoa Lagoon, with transportation, guide, and lunch provided.
• Opportunities for hiking around the crater rim and optional horseback riding, offering stunning views of the turquoise lake.
• Visits to indigenous market, indigenous homes, and Mirador del Quilotoa viewpoint for a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Shared group tours available on Thursdays and Sundays, with private tours offered daily, at prices starting from $68.50 per person.
• Tour not wheelchair accessible, requires moderate physical fitness, and may include an additional $4 fee per person for community donations.

Tour Overview and Inclusions

The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an all-inclusive experience that combines hiking and descent to the mesmerizing Quilotoa Lagoon.

The tour includes a professional bilingual guide, lunch, and transportation from Quito to Quilotoa and back. Participants can choose between shared tours on Thursdays and Sundays or private tours available daily.

Prices start from $68.50, varying based on group size, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour also provides opportunities for additional activities like horseback riding and observations of the Cotopaxi Volcano, weather permitting.

Activities and Visits

Hiking and horseback riding options are available for participants during the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa.

The tour includes visits to an indigenous market, an indigenous house, the Mirador del Quilotoa viewpoint, the stunning Laguna del Quilotoa, and the Toachi River Canyon.

Depending on weather conditions, participants may also be able to observe the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.

These activities allow visitors to enjoy the local culture and appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

The tour provides a well-rounded cultural experience that educates and delights participants.

Transportation and Accessibility

Private transportation is included as part of the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa. The tour provides transport from Quito to Quilotoa and back.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves hiking and descending to the Laguna del Quilotoa.

While the transportation is inclusive, there may be additional fees for community donations, which can cost around $4 per person.

Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly recommended the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa, with an impressive 99% recommendation rate based on 11 reviews.

The tour boasts an overall rating of 5.0, with 9 five-star reviews and 2 four-star reviews.

Reviewers have highlighted several standout features:

• The knowledgeable and engaging guides who provided an enriching educational experience
• The breathtaking beauty of the Laguna Quilotoa, a stunning emerald-green crater lake
• The opportunity to immerse in the local culture through visits to indigenous markets and homes

The consistently positive feedback suggests this tour offers an exceptional cultural and natural exploration of the Quilotoa region.

All-inclusive Tour Options

The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an all-inclusive package that covers the key highlights of the region.

The tour includes a professional bilingual guide, lunch, and transportation from Quito to Quilotoa and back. Visitors can choose between shared tours on Thursdays and Sundays or private tours available daily. Prices start from $68.50 per person and vary based on group size.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience. The tour provides access to the indigenous market, an indigenous house, the Mirador del Quilotoa, the Laguna del Quilotoa, and the Toachi River Canyon.

Observation of the Cotopaxi Volcano is possible, depending on weather conditions.

Hiking and Horseback Riding

For those interested in more active exploration, the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers hiking and horseback riding options.

The hike around the Quilotoa crater rim provides stunning views of the vivid turquoise lake below. Those seeking a more leisurely experience can opt for a guided horseback ride through the surrounding Andean countryside.

The tour also includes visits to local indigenous markets and homes, offering a well-rounded culture.

• Hike the Quilotoa crater rim for panoramic vistas
• Explore the Andean landscape on a guided horseback ride
• Discover indigenous culture through visits to markets and homes

Indigenous Experiences and Observations

Along With the active outdoor pursuits, the Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers immersive experiences with the indigenous communities of the region.

Participants can visit an indigenous market to browse local handicrafts and produce. They’ll also have the chance to step inside an indigenous home, learning about traditional lifestyles and customs.

The tour includes stops at the Mirador del Quilotoa, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the stunning crater lake. Weather permitting, the tour may also provide observations of the mighty Cotopaxi Volcano in the distance.

These cultural encounters provide a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous heritage and way of life.

Additional Tour Details and Fees

Aside from the core tour activities, participants should be aware of a few additional details and potential fees. The tour confirmation is provided at booking, and personal expenses as well as any additional tickets or contributions aren’t included in the base price.

Notably, there may be a hidden fee of $4 per person for community donations.

• Guests should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps during transportation.

• A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the experience involves hiking and descent to the lagoon.

• Unexpected weather conditions may limit visibility of Cotopaxi Volcano during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hiking Trail?

The hiking trail is of moderate difficulty, with the physical fitness of participants required. The descent to the lagoon can be challenging, but options like horseback riding are available for those who prefer a less strenuous activity.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour package includes lunch, and any additional personal expenses or contributions are not covered by the tour price.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Tour Participants?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but infants must sit on laps during the included private transportation. Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as the tour involves hiking and other activities.

Is There an Option to Explore the Lagoon by Boat?

The tour does not include an option to explore the Laguna Quilotoa by boat. Visitors can only access the lagoon by hiking down to the shore or by taking a guided horseback riding tour.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Horseback Riding Activity?

The horseback riding activity has no special requirements. Participants must have moderate physical fitness, but no prior experience is needed. Participants will be provided with safety equipment and instructions from knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

The Cultural Tour Laguna Quilotoa offers an immersive experience that combines hiking, scenic vistas, and culture. Guided by bilingual experts, participants can explore indigenous markets and homes while discovering the stunning Andean landscape. With options for both hiking and horseback riding, the all-inclusive tour provides a well-rounded adventure for nature and culture enthusiasts at an affordable price of just $68.50.