Discover Quilotoa and Baños in a Day From Quito

Setting out on a day trip from Quito to Quilotoa and Baños is an opportunity to take in Ecuador’s natural wonders. This unforgettable tour promises stunning landscapes, captivating cultural experiences, and a chance to explore the mesmerizing Quilotoa Lagoon. With convenient hotel pickup and a carefully curated itinerary, travelers can effortlessly discover the highlights of these remarkable destinations. Whether you opt for kayaking, horseback riding, or simply take in the breathtaking views, this day-long adventure guarantees an unforgettable experience. The best part? The journey doesn’t end at Quilotoa, as the tour continues to the enchanting town of Baños, where waterfalls and treetop adventures await.

About Your Stay

• This full-day tour from Quito takes you to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon and the charming town of Baños, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Andes.

• Highlights include exploring the vibrant Quilotoa Crater Lake, engaging with local artisans in Tigua, and discovering the breathtaking Toachi River Canyon along the way.

• Travelers can choose from various activities at Quilotoa, such as hiking, kayaking, and horseback riding, to enjoy the stunning landscape.

• The tour includes hotel pickup in Quito and drop-off in Baños, providing a seamless and convenient experience for exploring these two popular destinations.

• The tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate fitness level, with a maximum of 6 participants to ensure a personalized and intimate experience.

Overview of the Tour

This day tour from Quito offers travelers a chance to discover two of Ecuador’s top destinations: the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon and the charming town of Baños.

Priced from $110 per person, the tour provides hotel pickup in Quito and drop-off in Baños.

Along the way, you’ll stop at Tigua, Toachi River Canyon, and the Quilotoa Lagoon, where optional activities like kayaking or horseback riding are available.

The tour has a maximum of 6 travelers and starts at 8:30 am.

While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate fitness level required makes this tour suitable for most adventurous visitors to Ecuador.

Highlights of the Itinerary

The day tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Quito, whisking travelers away to the picturesque town of Tigua.

Here, visitors explore the local art gallery, showcasing the vibrant textile traditions of the region.

The journey continues to the breathtaking Toachi River Canyon, where travelers can marvel at the natural wonder of the landscape.

The highlight of the tour is the visit to the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, where optional activities like kayaking or horseback riding allow visitors to fully enjoy the beauty of this volcanic crater lake.

The tour then concludes with a drop-off in Baños, offering the opportunity for further exploration of the town’s renowned waterfalls and tree houses.

Transportation and Pickup Details

Travelers can choose from several pickup points in Quito, including the convenient location of Basílica del Voto Nacional. The tour guide will contact participants a few days before the trip to confirm the pickup arrangements. The tour will end at Oriente 1253, Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador.

Pickup Points	Start Time	Dropoff Location	End Time
Basílica del Voto Nacional	8:30 AM	Oriente 1253, Baños de Agua Santa	Around 7:30 PM
Hotel in Quito	8:30 AM	Oriente 1253, Baños de Agua Santa	Around 7:30 PM
Customized Pickup	8:30 AM	Oriente 1253, Baños de Agua Santa	Around 7:30 PM
Meeting Point	8:30 AM	Oriente 1253, Baños de Agua Santa	Around 7:30 PM

Quilotoa Lagoon Exploration

How does the Quilotoa Lagoon exploration unfold? After the drive from Quito, travelers arrive at the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, a caldera lake nestled in the Andes.

Visitors are free to:

• Hike down to the turquoise waters and gaze upon the crater’s vibrant colors.
• Kayak across the serene lagoon for a unique perspective.
• Take a horseback ride around the rim, enjoying panoramic views.
• Explore the small artisan village of Quilotoa, known for its traditional textiles.
• Savor a traditional Andean lunch before continuing the journey to Baños.

The Quilotoa Lagoon offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture, setting the stage for an unforgettable day trip from Quito.

Toachi River Canyon Adventure

Next, the tour heads to the Toachi River Canyon. This dramatic gorge offers a chance to witness Ecuador’s stunning natural beauty.

Visitors can admire the towering cliffs and observe the rushing Toachi River below. The canyon’s unique geology and diverse wildlife provide an exhilarating experience. Guests may spot native birds and animals as they explore the area.

The stop at the Toachi River Canyon allows travelers to enjoy the region’s impressive landscapes before continuing on to the Quilotoa Lagoon.

This diverse array of natural wonders makes the day trip a truly unforgettable adventure.

Tigua Art Gallery Visit

The Tigua Art Gallery offers visitors a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Tigua people. This stop on the Quilotoa and Baños tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the vibrant artwork and traditional crafts of the region.

• Visitors can browse the gallery’s collection of colorful paintings, intricate textiles, and handcrafted ceramics.

• Knowledgeable local artisans are on hand to share the stories and techniques behind their work.

• Guests can purchase unique souvenirs and support the local artisan community.

• The gallery showcases the impressive artistic talent and cultural preservation efforts of the Tigua people.

• Exploring the Tigua Art Gallery adds a cultural dimension to the day’s adventure.

Health and Safety Considerations

While the cultural exploration at the Tigua Art Gallery provides a captivating experience, it’s crucial to consider the health and safety aspects of the overall Quilotoa and Baños tour.

This trip isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with heart conditions or serious medical concerns. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour includes hiking and other activities.

It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. However, service animals are permitted.

Travelers should carefully assess their capabilities and health status before booking this excursion to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy is flexible – full refunds are available up to 24 hours before the tour, and partial refunds for cancellations within 24 hours. Guests are advised to review the policy carefully when booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Travelers can customize the itinerary to include additional activities, though it may incur extra costs. The tour provider is generally open to accommodating reasonable requests, but specifics should be discussed and confirmed with them prior to booking.

Is Food and Drink Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t include meals or drinks. You’ll need to budget for your own food and refreshments during the day. The provider can offer recommendations on where to eat in Quilotoa and Baños if requested.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 6 travelers. The tour provider aims to keep the groups small, which allows for a more personalized experience and easier coordination throughout the day’s activities.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour provider does not explicitly mention any COVID-19 safety protocols in place. Travelers should expect standard precautions such as mask-wearing and social distancing, but specific details are not provided in the tour overview.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This unforgettable day tour from Quito showcases the best of Ecuador’s natural wonders. Travelers will be captivated by the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon, enjoy the vibrant Tigua art scene, and explore the breathtaking Toachi River Canyon. The trip culminates in the charming town of Baños, where visitors can discover cascading waterfalls and unique treehouses, creating a perfect blend of adventure and culture.