Experience the Beauty of Ecuador with the Quilotoa Full Day Tour

Starting early from Quito, this full-day guided tour takes you beyond the city limits to explore some of Ecuador’s most captivating natural and cultural sites. For $69 per person, we’re picked up from our accommodation and whisked away on a 12-14 hour adventure that includes visits to the spectacular Quilotoa Lagoon, a scenic drive past the Toachi River Canyon, a hearty breakfast at Chuquiragua Lodge beneath Cotopaxi Volcano, and an insightful stop at a local Tigua artisans’ workshop. What really impresses us is how well it balances outdoor activity with culture, all packed into one value-packed day.

Two standout features make this trip particularly appealing: First, the guided hike down to the crater lake offers a close-up view of one of Ecuador’s most stunning volcanic features. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Irene and Misael, praised repeatedly in reviews, elevate the experience with their enthusiasm and local insights.

However, a point to consider is the long drive—around four hours each way—which might be tiring for some. Still, the varied scenery and stops help break up the transit nicely.

This tour suits active travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes and cultural encounters, and who are prepared for a full day on the move. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want to see a diverse slice of Ecuador’s highlands and indigenous communities.

Key Points

Natural wonders: Visit the UNESCO-listed crater lake Quilotoa and see the volcanic landscapes of Cotopaxi.
Cultural insights: Explore a local Tigua artisan workshop and learn about indigenous Ecuadorian art.
Active experience: Hike down into the crater to see the lagoon up close.
Comfortable transportation: All included hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance every stop.
Value for money: At $69, this all-inclusive day offers a lot for a relatively modest price.

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The Full Breakdown of the Quilotoa Full Day Tour

Starting the Day: Quito Pickup and Early Morning Drive

The adventure kicks off at 7 a.m. with pickup from your Quito hotel or hostel. We like this convenience, as it means one less thing to organize. The initial drive to Cotopaxi takes about three hours, but we found it quite pleasant. The bus ride is comfortable, and the scenery along the way is stunning—rolling highland landscapes, volcanic peaks, and lush farmland. Several reviews highlight how relaxing this part of the trip is, especially with the reassurance of guides like Jose and Daniel, who keep the mood lively.

Breakfast at Chuquiragua Lodge

Before heading into the mountains, we stop at Chuquiragua Lodge beneath the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano for breakfast. The included meal is a thoughtful touch, giving everyone fuel for the day’s activities. The lodge itself offers sweeping views of the surrounding volcanoes, making it a scenic spot to stretch your legs and enjoy some local Ecuadorian hospitality.

The Highlight: Quilotoa Lagoon

The main event is the visit to Quilotoa Lagoon, a striking volcanic crater filled with emerald-green water. The highlight for many travelers is the guided hike down the crater rim—a descent of about 300 meters that takes roughly 30-45 minutes. Reviewers rave about the breathtaking views and the opportunity to get close to the lake, which is truly a sight to behold. One visitor described it as “gorgeous, especially the lagoon,” emphasizing how memorable this natural wonder is.

Once at the bottom, you can take time to relax, photograph the vibrant colors, or even dip your toes in the cool water. For those feeling energetic, the hike back up is a workout but well worth the effort for the spectacular vistas.

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Lunch and Free Time in Quilotoa

After the descent, the tour provides a lunch at a local restaurant. While the exact menu isn’t detailed, reviewers mention the meal as satisfying and authentic, adding to the value of the experience. Post-lunch, there’s free time to explore the Quilotoa community, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the scenery. The village’s humble charm and indigenous crafts make for an enriching cultural stop.

Cultural Stop in Tigua

On the way back, the tour pauses at a Tigua artisans’ workshop. Here, you’ll see the symbolic art of Tigua paintings, which reflect the culture and traditions of Ecuador’s indigenous communities. Reviewers highlight this visit as a meaningful glimpse into local life that adds depth to the tour. It’s a quick stop—around 30 minutes—but enough to appreciate the craftsmanship and perhaps buy a unique piece of art.

Scenic Drive Along Toachi River Canyon

As we head back towards Quito, we pass the Toachi River Canyon, a landscape sculpted by volcanic activity and eruptions, giving the scenery an unusual and dramatic quality. The views from the vehicle are impressive, and it’s a nice way to appreciate the geological history of the region without extra walking.

Return to Quito

The trip concludes around 8 p.m., with a drop-off back at your accommodation. The long day means you’ll want to be comfortable and prepared for an early start but also enjoy the convenience of door-to-door service. Some reviews commend the professionalism and friendliness of guides, making even the long drive feel engaging.

What We Love About This Tour

The combination of natural beauty and culture makes this trip stand out. The guided hike into Quilotoa gives an authentic experience of Ecuador’s volcanic landscapes, and the artisan workshop visit offers a taste of indigenous creativity. The guides, often praised in reviews, add a personal touch that makes a difference—sharing stories, ensuring safety, and helping you get the best photos.

The value is impressive for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering that all transportation, entrance fees, and meals (breakfast included) are covered. For travelers on a budget, this tour offers a well-organized, comprehensive experience that saves you the hassle of planning each step yourself.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The most common concern is the long hours of travel—around four hours each way. While the scenery is lovely, some might find the drive tiring, especially if you’re not used to long bus trips. The hike down into the crater is also physically demanding and might not suit everyone’s fitness level, as some reviews note the hike back up can be challenging.

Weather can be unpredictable, particularly at high altitude, so packing warm clothes is advisable. Some reviews mention the chilly temperatures at Quilotoa, so bringing layers is wise. Also, as with any full-day tour, there’s limited free time at each stop for deep exploration, so if you’re looking for a leisurely pace or multiple days to explore the area, this might not be enough.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a rich blend of outdoor adventure and cultural insight. It’s perfect if you’re short on time in Quito but still want to see some of Ecuador’s most iconic sights. The knowledgeable guides make it especially suitable for first-time visitors eager to learn about indigenous art and volcanic landscapes. However, it’s best for those prepared for a full day of movement and outdoor activity—it’s not a relaxed sightseeing trip.

The Sum Up

The Quilotoa Full Day Tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines stunning natural scenery with authentic cultural stops. The guided hike to the lagoon provides a personal connection to one of Ecuador’s most remarkable volcanic features, while visits to artisan workshops deepen your understanding of local traditions. The included transportation, breakfast, and thoughtful itinerary make it a great value for travelers seeking an active, educational day outside Quito.

If you’re someone who loves beautiful landscapes, engaging guides, and meaningful cultural encounters, this tour will likely meet—and possibly exceed—your expectations. It’s especially suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness and a desire to see a different side of Ecuador that’s full of color, history, and volcanic drama.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within designated areas in Quito, making logistics simple.

How long is the drive to Quilotoa?
Approximately four hours each way, which some travelers find long but manageable with scenic stops and a comfortable bus.

What is the main activity at Quilotoa?
The highlight is hiking down to the crater lake, a guided trek that offers close-up views of the colorful lagoon inside the volcanic crater.

Is the hike suitable for everyone?
The hike involves descending and ascending a significant elevation, so a good level of fitness is recommended. The return hike can be challenging for some.

What’s included in the tour price?
The cost covers hotel transportation, breakfast at Chuquiragua Lodge, entrance to the lagoon, and a visit to the Tigua artisans’ workshop.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at the lodge, and lunch is provided at a local restaurant after visiting Quilotoa. Dinner is not included.

What should I bring for the day?
Warm clothes, layers, sun protection, and comfortable shoes. Weather can be chilly and changeable at high altitude.

How about free time?
After the hike, there’s time to explore Quilotoa village and do some shopping or take photos.

What’s the best suited for this tour?
Active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and cultural stops will find this trip rewarding.

Whether it’s your first time in Ecuador or a return visit, this tour packs a lot into one day. It’s a chance to see the vivid colors of the crater lake, experience local artistic traditions, and enjoy Ecuador’s stunning mountain scenery—all with the convenience of guided logistics and good value.