Traveling from Quito to Quilotoa offers a rare chance to escape the city’s hustle and discover some of Ecuador’s most striking landscapes and vibrant local traditions. This full-day tour, costing around $75 per person, typically lasts about 12 hours, and includes visits to charming artisan towns, a scenic drive, and a rewarding hike to the edge of a dormant volcano’s crater lake. Our guide, whose knowledge and friendliness come highly recommended, makes the journey enjoyable and packed with authentic insights.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural scenery with meaningful cultural stops. The view from the quilted crater rim is truly unforgettable—worth every step of the hike back up or the mule ride, if you’re not keen on walking uphill. Also, the opportunity to visit a local artisan workshop in Tigua and learn about Ecuadorian Naif art adds a colorful, cultural touch that makes the experience more than just a sightseeing trip.

However, a potential consideration is the drive time—roughly three hours each way on winding roads—so if you’re prone to motion sickness, prepare accordingly. The roads can be a bit bumpy, and the journey is part of the adventure. This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, moderate physical activity, and cultural discovery, especially those eager to see a volcano crater lake and support local artisans.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The scenic drive and crater overlook provide incredible photo opportunities.
Cultural Insights: Visits to local towns and artisan workshops deepen your understanding of Ecuadorian traditions.
Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with stories, history, and local tips.
Balanced Activities: Includes hiking, sightseeing, and cultural stops for a well-rounded day.
Value for Money: All entrances, transport, and a traditional Ecuadorian lunch are included.
Considerations: Long drive, possible motion sickness, and moderate physical activity required.

Exploring Ecuador’s Natural and Cultural Heartland

This tour offers an authentic glimpse into Ecuador’s diverse landscapes and vibrant communities, making it a favorite among travelers looking for more than just a quick snapshot of the country. We found that the scenic drive itself is rewarding, with views of the Andean highlands, rolling hills, and small towns that seem to pause in time. The highlight is undoubtedly the Laguna Quilotoa, a volcanic crater filled with strikingly blue-green water, created by sulfur deposits.

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The First Stops: Pujili and Tigua

Your day begins with a visit to Pujili, a traditional family home where you can learn about local guinea pig farming—an important part of Ecuadorian cuisine and culture. The review from a traveler who appreciated the local culture noted that this stop offers a genuine look at everyday life.

Next, you’ll explore Tigua, a lively town famed for its Naif art—bold, colorful paintings that often depict local legends, animals, and scenes of community life. Visitors frequently mention the friendly guides and the chance to see artisans at work, making this stop both visually and culturally engaging.

The Main Event: Laguna Quilotoa

The star of the tour is the viewpoint over Quilotoa, a volcanic crater that has become one of Ecuador’s most photographed sites. You’ll have the chance to hike down the steep slope to the water’s edge or opt for a mule ride back up if you prefer. One reviewer praised the well-maintained trail and the breathtaking scenery from multiple viewpoints.

The crater’s color—a mixture of blue, green, and sulfur yellow—is a striking reminder of its dormant volcanic nature. Legends abound about gods and battles, adding a layer of mythic charm to your visit.

Local Art and Craftsmanship

After soaking in the views, you’ll visit a Tigua artisan workshop, where the vibrant works reflect the community’s love of color and storytelling. Many travelers find these crafts a meaningful souvenir and appreciate learning about the symbolism and techniques used by local artists.

The Return Journey and Final Sights

On the way back to Quito, the group often stops at the Toachi River Canyon for photos and brief walks, offering one last chance to enjoy Ecuador’s rugged natural beauty. The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back, often after a delicious local lunch—a highlight for many, who praise the authentic flavors and generous portions.

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Why This Tour Works Well for Travelers

This tour combines natural wonder with culture—perfect for those wanting a full day away from the city buzz but still looking for comfort and meaningful experiences. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures more personal attention from guides like Daniel, who are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The price point includes all entrance fees, transport, guidance, and lunch, making it a good value—especially when you consider the cost of individual entrances and meals if you self-organize. For those who enjoy moderate hikes and are comfortable with a three-hour drive each way, this tour provides an excellent balance of activity and relaxation.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Pujili: A Cultural Glimpse

The day kicks off with a quick visit to Pujili, where the focus is on local traditions. The chance to learn about guinea pig culture provides insight into a culinary tradition that’s deeply rooted in Ecuadorian life. This approximately 20-minute stop offers a peek into rural life and an opportunity to interact with welcoming local families.

Tigua: Art and Color

Next, we stop in Tigua, a lively town with a boisterous arts scene. Here, you’ll see Naif art—bright, playful paintings that tell stories of local legends and everyday life. Many visitors mention the friendly guides who explain the symbols and techniques, adding depth to what might otherwise be just pretty pictures. In about 25 minutes, you’ll get a taste of Ecuadorian artistic expression and maybe pick up a unique souvenir.

Laguna Quilotoa: The Main Attraction

The core of the tour is the Laguna Quilotoa. From the viewpoint, you’ll gaze down into a spectacular volcanic crater filled with jade-green water, a result of sulfur deposits. The hike down to the lake’s edge is about as steep as it looks, but the effort is rewarded with unmatched views and the chance to stand at the water’s edge—if you’re up for it.

One review highlights that viewing the lake from multiple viewpoints is worthwhile, and that the hike back up can be a challenge for those with limited stamina. Alternatively, a mule ride is available for a fee, which many find a fun and less tiring way to return.

Artisan Workshop: Colorful Stories

After the crater, you’ll visit a local artisan workshop in Tigua. The community’s bright, geometric paintings are more than just decorative—they tell stories and embody local Mythology and culture. Many reviews mention the friendly guides and the colorful, lively atmosphere of this stop.

Final Stops: Toachi River Canyon

On the way back, stopping at the Toachi River Canyon offers a final dose of stunning natural scenery, a perfect place for photos and reflection on the day’s journey.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Timing: The tour starts early at 7:00 am, so be prepared for a full day.
Transportation: The bus is described as comfortable with large windows, ideal for scenic views, though some travelers suggest it might be a bit rough if you’re sensitive to motion sickness.
Physical Activity: The hike down and back up is moderate but manageable for most, though those with bad knees might find the ascent challenging.
Inclusions: The lunch, all entrance fees, and guidance make this a hassle-free experience.
Cost-Effectiveness: Given the transportation, guided insights, and meals included, many find this tour offers good value.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re eager to see one of Ecuador’s most iconic natural sites and enjoy cultural visits in a small, friendly group, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for moderate walkers, curious travelers, and those who appreciate guided stories that bring the landscape and local traditions alive. Travelers who want comfort, convenience, and the chance to support local artisans will find this experience rewarding.

The Sum Up

The Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch offers a well-rounded glimpse into Ecuador’s natural beauty and cultural richness at a reasonable price. With stunning views, a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to explore local towns and crafts, it suits travelers who like a mix of activity and leisure, along with authentic local flavor.

While the long drive might be tiring for some, the scenery and experiences along the way make it worthwhile. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful day trip that combines spectacular landscapes with cultural storytelling—a memorable way to deepen your understanding of Ecuador beyond the city limits.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Quito to Quilotoa?
The drive takes about three hours each way on winding roads, offering scenic views but possibly challenging if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Ecuadorian lunch, which many travelers find to be delicious and filling.

Can I hike down to the lake?
Yes, you can hike down the steep slope to the lake, or opt for a mule ride back up if preferred.

What should I wear on this tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the hike, and layers are advisable due to variable weather at high altitude.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
The moderate hike and long drive mean it’s best for those in moderate physical condition. Small children or mobility issues may find the ascent challenging.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrances to the stops are included in the price.

What is the group size?
The tour generally operates in small groups of up to 20 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention.

Will I have free time at the crater?
Yes, you’ll have free time to explore around the crater, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

What makes this tour a good value?
All transportation, guidance, entrance fees, and lunch are included, offering a hassle-free experience at a reasonable price.

Is the tour suitable for photographers?
Absolutely, the views from multiple viewpoints and the vibrant local art make it perfect for capturing memorable photos.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if the Quilotoa Tour Full Day With Lunch fits your travel style. It’s a fantastic way to experience Ecuador’s volcanic landscapes and meet artisans who keep local traditions alive—an enriching day that combines natural awe with cultural insight.