Private Full Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito

Exploring the Quilotoa Lagoon is a must-do experience for any visitor to Ecuador. This private full-day tour from Quito promises to whisk you away to one of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll embark on a scenic drive through the Andes before embarking on a hike around the lagoon’s rim. While the journey may be challenging at times, the stunning views of the emerald-green waters below make it well worth the effort. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour offers an opportunity to learn about Ecuador’s captivating landscapes.

About Your Stay

• Private full-day tour from Quito to Quilotoa Lagoon, covering approximately 12 hours with a 3-hour scenic drive through the Andes.
• 30-minute walk to the lagoon banks followed by a 2-hour hike and viewpoint climb, with mules available for hire for uphill assistance.
• Professional bilingual guide, private transportation, entrance fees, food, and drinks included in the tour package.
• Moderate fitness level required, with challenging uphill stretches on the trail, and not recommended for individuals with back problems or serious medical conditions.
• Tour priced from $128.00 per person, with free cancellation option available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

This private full-day tour takes travelers from Quito to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon, a crater lake nestled in the Andes mountains.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from 7 AM to 6 PM. Guests will enjoy a 3-hour scenic drive through the Andes before embarking on a 30-minute walk to the lagoon’s banks.

They’ll then hike along the lakeside and climb to viewpoints, with mules available for hire to assist with the uphill stretches.

The tour includes a professional bilingual guide, private transportation, entrance fees, and food and drinks.

It’s recommended for travelers with a moderate fitness level, excluding those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.

Inclusions

The private full-day tour to Quilotoa Lagoon from Quito includes a professional bilingual guide to lead the way.

Hotel or port pickup and drop-off are provided for convenience. Visitors will have private transportation throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Entrance fees to the Quilotoa Lagoon are covered, allowing easy access to this natural wonder. The package also includes food and drinks, so travelers can focus on enjoying the tour without worrying about meals.

Gratuities are even included, eliminating the need to carry extra cash. With all these inclusions, the tour offers great value and a hassle-free exploration of the stunning Quilotoa Lagoon.

Itinerary

The tour begins with pickup from a central Quito hotel at 8 am. Travelers then embark on a 3-hour scenic drive through the majestic Andes. Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy a 30-minute walk to reach the banks of the Quilotoa Lagoon. The main highlight is a 2-hour hike along the lakeside, culminating in a climb to a viewpoint. For those who need assistance, mules are available for hire at an additional cost to tackle the uphill stretches.

Time	Activity
8:00 AM	Pickup from Quito hotel
11:00 AM	Arrive at Quilotoa Lagoon
11:30 AM	30-minute walk to lagoon banks
1:30 PM	2-hour hike and viewpoint climb

Physical Requirements

A moderate physical fitness level is required for this tour, as the hike along the Quilotoa Lagoon can be challenging. The trail includes some uphill stretches, and travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions may find the hike difficult.

To ensure your comfort and safety, the tour operator recommends the following:

1. Wear comfortable, athletic clothing suitable for all weather conditions.
2. Bring sunscreen and a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
3. Mules are available for hire at an additional cost to assist with the uphill sections of the hike.

Reviews and Ratings

According to the available reviews, travelers generally rate the Quilotoa Lagoon tour from Quito as a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

The tour has received a total of 2 reviews. Travelers highlight the scenic drive through the Andes and the cultural insights provided by the guide as positives.

The breathtaking views of the crater lake and the challenging hike are also noted. However, some travelers mention that the uphill stretches can be strenuous, and they recommend using mules for assistance.

Booking Information

The Quilotoa Lagoon tour from Quito is priced from $128.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.

Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later, making the booking process more convenient. On top of that, the tour offers a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience begins, providing flexibility in case plans change.

The booking process is simple:

1. Reserve your spot online or by contacting the tour provider.
2. Receive confirmation of your booking immediately.
3. Pay for the tour at your convenience, either in full or with a deposit.

Getting There

Although the tour starts from central Quito, the journey to Quilotoa Lagoon takes approximately 3 hours through the stunning Andean countryside. The drive offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, rolling hills, and traditional Andean villages.

Road Conditions	Terrain
Paved	Mountainous
Winding	Steep in parts
Well-maintained	Scenic vistas

During the drive, your guide will provide insights into the region’s history, culture, and ecology, making the journey an integral part of the overall tour experience. Travelers should be prepared for the high altitude and potential changes in weather conditions.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Quilotoa Lagoon?

The best time to visit Quilotoa Lagoon is during the dry season, from June to September. The weather’s mild, and the clear skies offer stunning views of the vibrant blue-green crater lake.

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

Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes food and drinks, but allowing guests to bring their own provides more flexibility and choice during the day’s activities.

Is There an Option to Do a Shorter Hike Around the Lagoon?

Yes, there’s an option to do a shorter hike around the lagoon. The itinerary includes a 2-hour hike along the lakeside and a viewpoint climb, but travelers can opt to do just the shorter loop hike if they prefer.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Exploring the Lagoon Area?

The tour allots 2 hours for hiking along the lakeside and climbing to viewpoints. Visitors can opt to hire mules for the uphill stretches, which may allow for more time to explore the Quilotoa Lagoon area.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?

The tour includes mule hire for uphill stretches, which is an additional cost. Otherwise, the provided inclusions cover the main expenses of the tour, like transportation, entrance fees, and guide services.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Quilotoa Lagoon’s private full-day tour from Quito offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Ecuador’s breathtaking landscapes. With a professional bilingual guide, scenic drives, and a moderate hike, this all-inclusive adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking stunning views or a challenging trek, this tour caters to a variety of interests and fitness levels, ensuring a memorable exploration of one of the country’s most captivating natural wonders.