Quilotoa Lagoon and Volcanoes Avenue Day Trip with Entrances

Exploring Ecuador’s Natural Wonders: The Quilotoa Lagoon and Volcanoes Avenue Day Trip

This full-day tour from Quito costs $89 per person, lasts about 10 hours, and offers a chance to witness some of Ecuador’s most striking landscapes — from the brilliant turquoise crater lake to the towering peaks of the Avenue of Volcanoes. Led by knowledgeable guides like Diego and Javier, you’ll travel in comfortable private transport, visit indigenous communities, and enjoy a delicious local lunch. It’s an experience that balances adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Two things we love about this trip are the accessibility of these remote landscapes — thanks to the round-trip hotel transfer and private guide, it’s easy to relax and focus on the scenery — and the authentic cultural interactions, especially the visit to the indigenous Tigua community, which offers real insights into local life.

A possible consideration is that the hike down and back up the volcano crater can be quite challenging, especially at high altitude. The hike is rated as 4 out of 10 in difficulty going down, but 10 out of 10 on the way back up, so good footwear and some physical preparation are advisable.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate stunning vistas, cultural encounters, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity — especially hiking. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, well-organized day away from the city, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: View the vibrant turquoise lake within the caldera of Quilotoa, a volcanic crater formed in 1280.
• Cultural insights: Visit the Tigua indigenous community to see traditional art and learn about their daily life.
• Comfortable transport: Round-trip hotel pickup and private van make the long drive manageable.
• Inclusive experience: Entrance fees, guide, and lunch are included, providing good value.
• Adventure and challenges: The hike down to the lagoon is rewarding but steep and strenuous on the return.
• Authentic encounters: Interact with local artisans and see their craft firsthand.

Discovering Ecuador’s Volcanoes and Indigenous Culture

When we think about Ecuador’s landscape, the Avenue of Volcanoes often tops the list. This tour takes you beneath its majestic peaks, offering sweeping views and a sense of how powerful nature can be. The drive itself—passing through lush mountain scenery—sets the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural richness.

At the heart of this trip is the Quilotoa Lagoon, a surreal sight. Imagine a crater filled with a strikingly bright turquoise water—it’s the result of volcanic minerals mixing in the caldera. When the volcano last erupted in 1280, it left behind this enormous crater, now a popular spot for hiking and mule rides. Many reviewers mention how even with clouds moving in, the lake’s color and the landscape remain breathtaking. One noted, “the crater and lagoon are beautiful,” even when the weather isn’t ideal.

The hike down to Quilotoa is a highlight for many. The descent offers stunning views and a chance to experience the environment up close. As one traveler explained, “The views are breathtaking,” and another highlighted how “the hike was as stated — a great way to see Quilotoa.” If you’re physically up for it, taking a mule back up the steep trail for $10 can save some energy and add to the adventure.

Understanding local life is another big plus. The visit to the Tigua community is more than just a stop; it offers a look into traditional art, culture, and hospitality. The community is known for its naïve paintings, and many reviews mention how Diego, the guide, shared extensive knowledge about their way of life. One traveler shared, “Diego showed all his knowledge about the region and was very careful,” making the visit both educational and respectful.

Lunch is a surprise highlight. The included menu offers authentic Ecuadorian dishes, and many travelers appreciated the tasty, reasonably priced meals. One reviewer called it “delicious and very cool,” emphasizing how good food adds value to the day.

The drive back is as scenic as the morning. Passing volcanoes along the Avenue of Volcanoes, with opportunities to photograph Cotopaxi and other peaks, adds to the memorable experience. The guides’ commentary makes the journey both informative and entertaining.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Laguna Quilotoa
This is the tour’s centerpiece. The crater’s size—about 3 km across—is impressive, and the color of the water is truly remarkable. Visitors often mention the surreal quality of the environment, with some experiencing altitude sickness but generally managing well thanks to the guide’s advice. The hike to the lakeshore is optional but recommended for views and photos. Many reviews praise the experience, calling it “amazing” and “breathtaking.”

Stop 2: Tigua
A short drive from the lagoon, this indigenous community is known for its colorful, naive-style paintings. It’s a wonderful chance to see traditional crafts and meet local artisans. Travelers often find this stop authentic and insightful—some even say it’s a highlight of the trip.

Additional activities
While mule rides are optional, they add a bit of fun. Kayak rentals are also available at a modest price if you want a different perspective on the lake. Some reviews mention how the guides are flexible, and the team takes weather and conditions into account, ensuring you get the best experience possible.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Experiences and Guide Excellence

Reviewers consistently mention how Diego and Javier enhance the tour with their knowledge and friendly approach. One said, “Diego was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable and made us feel welcomed,” which highlights how a good guide can elevate the experience. Another shared, “the guide was helpful and gave us space,” emphasizing the balance between guidance and personal exploration.

The scenery—from the volcanic peaks to the lake—receives universal praise. One traveler noted, “the crater lake is wonderful,” and many appreciated the opportunity to see Cotopaxi and the Avenue of Volcanoes from the van windows, often mentioning the “stunning views.”

Food and cultural interactions also shine. Several reviewers mention how the lunch was “delicious” and “reasonably priced,” and that the indigenous crafts and art gave a genuine glimpse into local life. The storytelling and explanations provided by guides help deepen the appreciation of Ecuador’s volcanic and cultural landscape.

Practical Considerations: What You Need to Know

Timing is key. The tour begins early with hotel pickup around 7:15 AM, ensuring you beat some of the crowds and have ample time at each stop. Expect about 3 hours of driving each way, with a few short breaks for coffee or snacks.

Hiking and physical readiness matter. The descent into the crater is manageable but steep, and the return hike is quite demanding at high altitude. Wear sturdy shoes—most reviews recommend hiking boots for comfort and safety.

Weather can change quickly in the mountains. The tour operates in all conditions, so pack layers, rain gear, and sun protection. The guide’s flexibility means you’ll be taken to the best spots based on weather, but prepare for fog or clouds that might obscure views.

Cost and value. For $89, including entrance fees, lunch, guide, and transport, the trip offers a lot of value. It’s especially good for those interested in combining scenery, culture, and moderate physical activity without worrying about logistics.

Booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about a month ahead, to secure a spot and organize their schedule.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see Ecuador’s volcanic landscapes up close, this trip checks all the boxes. It’s ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers willing to hike, and those interested in indigenous culture and art. The personalized guide service and inclusive nature of the tour suit travelers who prefer a structured yet authentic experience.

Keep in mind that it’s best suited for those comfortable with physical activity, as the hike can be strenuous, especially on the return. But if you’re looking for photos, immersive cultural moments, and breathtaking vistas, this day trip delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Quilotoa Lagoon and Volcanoes Avenue Day Trip offers a well-rounded Ecuador experience, blending spectacular natural beauty, authentic cultural visits, and smooth transportation. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without hassle, and who appreciate guides who share their knowledge with warmth and humor.

While the hikes can be challenging, the views and cultural insights more than compensate. The tour’s inclusion of local food, friendly guides, and seamless logistics makes it a practical, memorable way to explore Ecuador’s volcanic heart.

Whether you’re a dedicated hiker, a cultural enthusiast, or simply love striking landscapes, this trip will leave you with photos to marvel at and stories to tell for years.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
You’ll get hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, entrance fees, a guided visit, and a menu lunch.

How long is the drive from Quito?
The total drive is approximately 3 hours each way, with stops for coffee or sightseeing, making for a long but scenic day.

Can I do the hike down to the lagoon?
Yes, the hike is part of the experience. It’s about 4/10 in difficulty for those in good shape, but the climb back up is much tougher at 10/10, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult. Be aware of the physical demands of hiking and altitude.

What should I wear?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, and rain gear, as mountain weather can change rapidly.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s best to book about 35 days in advance, but last-minute bookings might still be possible if spots are available, especially off-season.

This trip from Quito offers a thoughtful blend of adventure, culture, and scenery, making it a standout choice for those wanting an authentic Ecuadorian experience without the fuss.