Private Quilotoa Lake Culture, Nature and Hike Day Tour

The Private Quilotoa Lake Culture, Nature, and Hike Day Tour promises an immersive experience that blends the stunning natural beauty of the Andes with a deep dive into Andean culture. Departing from Quito, guests embark on a personalized journey to the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, where they can explore the vibrant turquoise waters and learn about its volcanic origins. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. The tour also includes visits to local communities renowned for their distinctive artworks, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. With knowledgeable guides and ample opportunities for scenic hikes, this tour sets the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Ecuador’s captivating landscapes and traditions.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Quito.

Good To Know

• Immersive cultural experience exploring the Andean art and legends of the Tigua community.
• Breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes and Quilotoa Crater Lake throughout the tour.
• Guided hike along the edge of the vibrant turquoise Quilotoa Crater Lake.
• Knowledgeable and experienced guides providing historical context and local insights.
• Convenient private transportation with hotel pick-up and accessibility features for a comfortable journey.

Tour Overview

The Quilotoa Lake Culture, Nature and Hike Day Tour offers a private excursion from Quito, Ecuador to explore the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake and the surrounding communities.

Priced from $189, the tour includes private transportation, a knowledgeable national guide, admission fees, lunch, and gratuities. Guests will depart Quito at 7:30 am and stop at local markets before visiting the Tigua community known for its Andean art and legends.

The tour provides scenic views of the Andes mountains and the crater lake. Transportation is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available.

With a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews, the tour is praised for its culture and knowledgeable guides.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing Quito at 07:30 am, the tour starts with a stop at either the Saquisili market on Thursdays or the Zumbahua market on Saturdays.

Guests have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant local culture and browse the stalls for handcrafted Andean goods.

Alternatively, the tour may visit the Maca community to learn about their traditions.

The next stop is the Tigua community, known for its Andean art and legends.

Throughout the day, guests enjoy scenic views of the Andes and the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, which takes center stage at the end of the itinerary.

Transportation and Accessibility

Private transportation is provided for the Quilotoa Lake tour. Guests are picked up from their selected hotel at the established departure time of 7:30 am.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with transportation and surfaces that accommodate those with mobility needs. Infant seats are also available for families with young children.

The transportation ensures a comfortable and seamless journey to the Quilotoa Crater Lake and the surrounding areas of cultural and natural significance.

This accessibility allows all guests to fully enjoy the breathtaking scenery and enriching experiences that this tour offers.

Guide Experience and Reviews

Experienced guides Patricio and Kathy lead the Quilotoa Lake tour, known for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging approach.

Guests consistently praise the guides’ ability to provide historical context and local insights, creating a comfortable and informative experience.

The positive reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and dedication, with guests appreciating their efforts to ensure everyone enjoys the tour.

From arranging personalized mule rides for the return trip to leading early morning hikes to avoid crowds, the guides go above and beyond to make the tour memorable.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Guests consistently emphasize the breathtaking views, culture, and enjoyable hikes during the Quilotoa Lake tour.

They commend the guides for their professionalism and dedication, highlighting the historical context and local insights provided.

Notable experiences include early morning hikes to avoid crowds and personalized mule arrangements for return trips.

Overall, guests enthusiastically recommend the tour for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.

The tour’s positive reviews reflect the guides’ ability to create comfortable and informative experiences, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Scenic Views of the Andes

The Quilotoa Lake tour offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Andes mountain range throughout the day.

As you travel from Quito, you’ll be treated to majestic vistas of snow-capped peaks and rolling hills. The tour culminates at the Quilotoa Crater Lake, where the shimmering turquoise waters are framed by towering Andean slopes.

Along the way, you may also catch glimpses of traditional Andean communities nestled amidst the dramatic landscape.

The tour’s scenic route provides ample opportunities to admire the natural beauty of Ecuador’s highlands, making it a must-see for anyone seeking to experience the grandeur of the Andes.

Andean Art and Legends

Along the Quilotoa Lake tour, travelers will visit the Tigua community known for its vibrant Andean art and rich cultural legends.

This picturesque town nestled in the Andes is home to skilled artisans who create colorful paintings, weavings, and wood carvings reflecting their indigenous heritage. Visitors can browse the local market and interact with the artists, learning about the stories and symbolism behind their work.

The community also preserves a wealth of folklore, with tales of ancient deities, heroic figures, and natural phenomena passed down through generations.

Immersing oneself in Tigua’s artistic and legendary traditions provides a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s cultural tapestry.

Quilotoa Crater Lake Exploration

After departing the Tigua community, the tour makes its way towards the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake. The group will have the opportunity to explore the lake’s vibrant turquoise waters and hike around the crater’s rim.

Some key highlights include:

1. Taking in the stunning panoramic views of the Andes mountains surrounding the lake.
2. Learning about the lake’s volcanic origins and the local legends associated with it.
3. Enjoying a guided hike along the crater’s edge, offering a unique perspective of the natural wonder.
4. Arranging for a mule-assisted return trip for those who prefer a more relaxed descent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended. Guests can customize the itinerary and add more stops or activities, such as longer hikes or visits to additional cultural sites, for an additional cost. The tour operator is flexible in accommodating special requests.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit guests’ preferences. The provider offers flexibility to modify the itinerary, such as adding extra stops or adjusting the duration, based on the travelers’ interests and needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and hiking shoes. Layering is advised as the temperature can vary during the day.

Are There Any Additional Costs Beyond the Listed Price?

The tour price covers private transportation, a national guide, admission fees, lunch, and gratuities. There are no additional costs beyond the listed price of $189 per person.

How Can We Best Prepare for the Hiking Portion of the Tour?

To prepare for the hiking portion, wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes and bring layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather. Pack snacks, water, and sun protection. Start the hike early to avoid crowds and heat.

The Sum Up

The Private Quilotoa Lake Culture, Nature, and Hike Day Tour offers an immersive experience blending breathtaking natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and guided exploration. From the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake to the vibrant Andean communities, this tour provides a memorable adventure for those seeking to discover the beauty and wonder of Ecuador’s highlands.