Quilotoa Loop 1 Day Tour From Quito

The Quilotoa Loop 1 Day Tour from Quito offers travelers an unforgettable adventure in Ecuador’s Andean landscapes. Visitors will journey to the stunning Quilotoa Crater Lake, known for its vibrant turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic backdrop. The tour includes opportunities for hiking, exploring local indigenous communities, and enjoying panoramic views. With a knowledgeable guide, participants can enjoy the region’s rich culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an adventure seeker, this day trip promises an experience you won’t soon forget. Discover the wonders that await as you embark on this captivating journey.

Good To Know

• The Quilotoa Loop 1 Day Tour departs from Banos, not Quito, and includes transport, activities, and a guided tour of Cotopaxi’s crater lake, Yambo Lake, and llamas.
• Participants can choose from kayaking, horseback riding, or hiking around the crater lake, with flexible pacing and a private guide.
• The tour includes pickup, lunch, and all necessary fees, with a meeting point at Imagine Ecuador in Banos.
• Highlights of the tour include the stunning volcanic crater lake, opportunities to observe Andean llamas, and an immersive cultural experience with a knowledgeable guide.
• The tour is non-refundable, and reviews praise the amazing views, great stops, and friendly guide, with an overall 5-star rating.

Tour Overview

Travelers can experience Cotopaxi’s crater lake on an all-day adventure with this convenient tour from Baños, Ecuador.

The tour includes pickup and transport with a personal driver-guide to the Andean town of Pujili. Participants can choose from a range of activities, such as kayaking, horseback riding, or hiking around the stunning Lake Quilotoa.

The itinerary also features a visit to Yambo Lake and the opportunity to see Ecuador’s iconic llamas. A delicious lunch is included during the tour, which provides a flexible pace and private vehicle for a personalized experience.

Itinerary and Schedule

The tour begins at 7:00 am and ends back at the meeting point – Imagine Ecuador – Tour Operator in Baños.

This flexible-paced tour offers a private vehicle and guide, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

The itinerary includes a visit to the Andean town of Pujili, where you can choose from activities like kayaking, horseback riding, or hiking around the stunning Lake Quilotoa.

You’ll also get to see Yambo Lake and Ecuador’s iconic llamas.

A delicious lunch is included during the tour, making it a well-rounded and convenient day trip from Baños.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price starts from $92.00 per person. This includes:

• A driver/guide to escort you throughout the day
• Private transportation with fuel surcharge
• Landing and facility fees, lunch, and gratuities
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Baños

The tour is non-refundable, so no refunds will be provided for cancellations.

However, the pace is flexible, and you’ll enjoy the trip at your own leisure with a private vehicle and guide.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for this Quilotoa Loop day tour is Imagine Ecuador – Tour Operator, located on the corner of St. Luis A. Martínez & 16 de Diciembre in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador.

The exact coordinates are 1.3943°S, 78.4271°W, which can be opened in Google Maps by searching for "16 de Diciembre and Montalvo."

This central location in Baños serves as the convenient starting and ending point for the tour.

Participants will be picked up from this meeting point in the morning and dropped off here at the conclusion of the day’s activities.

Exploring Cotopaxi’s Crater Lake

An exciting journey awaits as visitors embark on the Quilotoa Loop day tour.

The highlight of the experience is exploring Cotopaxi’s captivating crater lake. Adventurers can:

1. Kayak on the serene waters, taking in the stunning views of the volcanic landscape.
2. Hike along the lake’s perimeter, witnessing the ever-changing hues of the water.
3. Marvel at the geological wonder as they peer into the depth of the crater.

This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allows travelers to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and gain a deeper appreciation for Ecuador’s volcanic heritage.

Kayaking, Horseback Riding, and Hiking

As visitors embark on the Quilotoa Loop day tour, they’ll have the opportunity to choose from a variety of exciting activities. The tour offers three main options: kayaking, horseback riding, and hiking. Whether you prefer to glide across the stunning Quilotoa crater lake, explore the region on horseback, or challenge yourself with a hike, the day tour has a lot to offer.

Activity	Duration	Price
Kayaking	1 hour	$10
Horseback Riding	1.5 hours	$10
Hiking	2-3 hours	N/A

Whichever activity you select, you’re sure to be rewarded with breathtaking views and a memorable experience on the Quilotoa Loop.

Visiting Yambo Lake and Llamas

After exploring the crater lake, the tour continues to Yambo Lake, where visitors will have the chance to see Ecuador’s iconic llamas.

The stop at Yambo Lake offers several highlights:

1. Observing the gentle llamas grazing and wandering the scenic lake shores.
2. Learning about the cultural significance of llamas in Andean communities.
3. Capturing breathtaking photos of the llamas set against the stunning Andean backdrop.

This portion of the tour provides a delightful opportunity to appreciate Ecuador’s natural wonders and indigenous wildlife.

With the guidance of the driver-guide, guests can enjoy the serene environment and gain a deeper understanding of the country’s unique cultural heritage.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

Travelers consistently praise the Quilotoa Loop Day Tour, with a perfect 5-star rating based on 3 reviews.

One reviewer highlights the "amazing views, great stops, and a friendly guide", noting the challenging hike down Quilotoa was worth it for the stunning vistas.

Travelers rate the overall experience a perfect 10/10, with the option to take horses for $10 to assist with the return hike.

The tour’s flexible pace and private vehicle and guide allow visitors to enjoy the journey at their own tempo.

With convenient pickup in Baños and a delicious included lunch, the Quilotoa Loop Day Tour offers an immersive Andean adventure that leaves travelers thoroughly satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Cotopaxi?

The best time to visit Cotopaxi is during the dry season from June to September. Skies are clear, temperatures are mild, and conditions are ideal for exploring the volcano’s stunning crater lake and hiking the surrounding trails.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children as it involves activities like kayaking and hiking around the crater lake. However, some families with older children may find the tour enjoyable with proper preparation and precautions.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Travelers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour provides a delicious lunch, but having additional refreshments can make the day more comfortable, especially during hikes or other activities. Check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy – no refunds are provided for cancellations. Travelers should be aware of this policy before booking to ensure it meets their needs.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

The tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing travelers to customize activities like kayaking, horseback riding, or hiking to fit their preferences. The driver-guide can accommodate individual needs to create a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

The Quilotoa Loop 1 Day Tour from Quito provides an incredible opportunity to explore Ecuador’s stunning Andean landscapes. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking Quilotoa Crater Lake, hike through the region, and enjoy the local culture. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can make the most of this day trip, creating unforgettable memories amidst the natural beauty of the Andes.