Afar reaching, fully packed day tour that takes you to the stunning emerald crater lake of Quilotoa. An impressive 3 km wide caldera filled with turquoise water, set at an elevation of roughly 3800 meters (12,467 feet), Quilotoa offers an unparalleled view of the crater and the Andean surroundings. A rewarding but lengthy day tour with about 4 ½ hours of travel per way that takes you through a trail of Andean volcanoes and mountains, there is some striking viewpoints along the way where you can stretch your legs and appreciate the scenic landscape. Available activities at the crater are a few, travelers can hike down to the edge of the lake (approximately 30 minute hike per way), rent a mule, hike to the highest peak or in the surroundings.
Quilotoa Gallery
Attractions, People & Surroundings
Quilotoa Features
Quilotoa Highlights 1/3
Andean Trail
With a lengthy ride to reach Quilotoa, your journey to the lake plays a significant part of your tour, it goes without saying that you will truly appreciate and get to observe many volcanic and Andean landscapes along the way. Your guide will brief you about the different volcanoes and mountains you pass by, all full of history and culture.
Quilotoa Highlights 2/3
Markets
Markets are a great way of complimenting your Quilotoa tour, a welcome addition that is only available on certain days of the week: (Saquisili = Thursdays), (Zumbahua = Saturdays). A fantastic experience where you get to observe first hand how locals do their trading and shopping, vending articles vary from fruits and vegetables – to animals and clothing.
Quilotoa Highlights 3/3
Hiking
Hiking the in and outs of the crater is the main attraction at Quilotoa lagoon, a variety of hiking activities are available to explore the lake; all of them been optional. If you just came for the view, consider yourself a satisfied customer. A descending hike to the edge of the lake is the most popular activity, a certain level of fitness is required considering the altitude in the area.
Quilotoa Program 2018
Day Tour
| Pickup: | Hotel Pickup with approximately 4 ½ hour drive. |
| Viewpoints: | View point stops along the way, scenic landscapes with picture opportunities. |
| *Market: | Markets are available to visit on certain days of the week. |
| Quilotoa: | Explore Quilotoa lake, optional mule renting to descend to the lake edge. |
| Lunch: | Lunch break, a restaurant is available on site, or guests can bring a box lunch. |
| Free Time: | Some additional free time to explore the surroundings before heading back. |
| Dropoff: | Tour ends, your guide will drive drop you off in your hotel at approx 7 pm. |
- Available 08:00 to 18:00 any day of the week. *Saquisili market (thursday), Zumbahua Market (saturday).
- Bookings are not processed on weekends. We require at least 4 days notice to properly set up day tours. Please keep this in mind before placing your reservation.
Quilotoa Rates 2018
Quilotoa Day Tour - Countryside Trek / 4+ Guest
Quilotoa Day Tour - Countryside Trek / 3 Guest
Quilotoa Day Tour - Countryside Trek / 2 Guest
Quilotoa Day Tour - Countryside Trek / Book Online Now
* Prices are per person, and subject to change without prior notice
* All prices are in USD
Tour |
Length |
Guest |
Transport |
Guidance |
Rate |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quilotoa, Countryside Trek | 1 day – 0 nights | single guest | private vehicle | private guide | $210 | BOOK NOW |
Entrance fee: $2 to $5 per person
Last revision: 29-November-2017 / Valid until: 31-December-2018
Certified tours by local authorities, compliant with local regulations.
Programs are private by default with certified English speaking driver-guides.
All rates are per person in US$ dollars, rates are subject to change.
Regular vehicles used by default, a van or bus for groups above 4 guests.
Order of activities are not fixed & might change to optimize your experience.
Activities may be replaced/changed if they can be arranged in the allotted time.
- Cap or hat
- Sport or trekking shoes
- Light clothing & rainproof jacket
- High factor sun block cream or gel
- Bottled water to carry with you in tour
- Digital camera or mobile phone
- Backpack to carry personal belongings
- Cash for entrance fees, meals & tipping
- UV400 sunglasses with 100% UVB block
- Passport copy, keep original stored in hotel
Children allowed: Yes
Children discount: 50%
Children minimum age: 6 years
Considered child: Under the age of 6
Restrictions: Accompanied with 2 adults
Discount & restrictions subject to change
Please check our terms and conditions for a full breakdown of applicable clauses that apply for day tour bookings.
