Hiking Day-Trip to Quilotoa Lagoon from Quito
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About This Experience in Quito
Why Visit Quito?
Quito, Ecuador offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Quito provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Quito
You can reach Quito, Ecuador by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.
What's Included
- Lunch
- Transportation from Quito to Quilotoa and back (hotels within the urban perimeter ONLY)
- Guided Hike in Quilotoa Lagoon and visit to a local market (market place depends on day of the week)
- Bilingual Guide
What's Not Included
- Items/ activities not mentioned on the itinerary
- Breakfast or other meals aside form Lunch
- Gratuities
- Laguna Quilotoa
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- What to bring: Warm clothes, eaterproof jacket, gloves, sunscreen, hat, hiking shoes, extra pair of socks, extra pants
- Clothing Suggestions: Comfortable and warm clothes (appropriate for location). Comfortable hiking shoes, walking stick
- Note: The tour is not private. Travelers will share services with a group. Maximum people per tour is 12
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Meeting and Pickup
Meeting Point
Early in the morning, the trip starts by driving 89 km south from Quito through the Panamericana HwyPickup Information
Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
Early in the morning, the trip starts by...
Early in the morning, the trip starts by driving 89 km south from Quito through the Panamericana Hwy. aka “The Avenue of the Volcanoes”. The first stop will be Latacunga City at Cotopaxi Province. From this point, head west for a 1-hour drive through the unforgettable Andean scenery towards the village of Quilotoa. Visit a local town and get in contact with the Andean culture (either Saquisilí or Pujilí). Get the chance to mix with the rich Andean culture of the local community that inhabits the surrounding area by visiting either Saquisil, Pujili or Zimbahua Indian markets (depends on the day).
The lovely town of Zimbahua comes right before...
The lovely town of Zimbahua comes right before we start hiking down towards the turquoise colored Quilotoa Lagoon. Trek around this natural wonder of water holding strong minerals, formed by the collapsed volcanic caldera. From the rim hike down towards the banks of the lagoon and then climb back up. Have lunch at a local restaurant and then stop at the small town Tigua famous for the Tigua art. In the late afternoon, head back to Quito. The weather in the area of the Quilotoa Lagoon is unpredictable so please bring warm and waterproof clothing. Quilotoa is located at 3,800 masl and the temperatures usually hovers around the 12°so we recommend acclimatizing at least one day prior to this trip. Please don’t make this excursion you first right after arriving Ecuador. The hike is easy and you need no climbing expertise, however, we do recommend to climb back up from the lagoon on a mule or horse (cost not included in the price of the tour). Swimming in the lagoon is not recommended.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
