Overview
Available languages
9 hours
Mobile ticket
Enjoy the volcanic scenery of the Andes. Explore "The Avenue of the Volcanoes". Mountains and green pastures are your companions on the journey. See local people who were descendants of Panzaleos (ancient civilization). Dare to taste a guinea pig that is roasted above hot charcoal, this meat is considered a delicacy to people who are living in the rural areas. Surprising yourself to see a beautiful water filled volcanic caldera. Hike down to the shore of the lagoon and feel the energy of this millennial lagoon that was the result of a volcanic eruption 800 years ago. Quilotoa witnessed the last journey of the Inca mummy.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What To Expect
Machachi
Depart from Quito and cross over one of the most commercial and cow-farm towns of Ecuador. This inter-Andean valley known as Machachi houses more than one economic activity. Machachi is surrounding by rose plantations, natural water factories and dairy shops. In July, an indigenous festival is celebrated each year. The festival is called “El Paseo del Chagra” or the Andean Cowboy Festival which was considered by the government an intangible cultural heritage of Ecuador. On the road, there is a view point to observe the mountains and some volcanoes which are part of the Andes mountain range.
Pujili
On specific days of the week, you can see how vendors and buyers coming down to the market from different villages. The market starts its activity early in the morning and is filled with colors either by the variety of products or by the typical dress of their natives who work in the market. The bargaining is part of the everyday of local people and makes you in a few seconds a good businessman. Indigenous markets can be visited Wednesday, Saturday (Zumbahua) and Sunday.
Options
Quilotoa Lagoon full day (all inclusive)
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Lunch
Pick-up/drop-off from Quito airport
Professional Guide with private transportation
Travel insurance
Mule back riding $10 USD per person
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A must-do day trip out of Quito!
Karen J,Nov 9, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This day trip with Eduardo exceeded our expectations. He was well-informed and we learned a lot about the Pichincha and Cotopaxi provinces of Ecuador. We enjoyed our stop at the Wednesday food market in Pujili with vendors in traditional Andean garb. Next was a visit to a local farming family where we were introduced to their traditional ways of life. Eduardo was sensitive to our needs and at our second baño stop we had the opportunity to visit an alpaca and buy local sweaters. Of course, Quilotoa Lake was our destination and there we enjoyed a filling lunch before we tackled the hike down to the lake with its stunning colours and views. Eduardo accompanied us down and back up on foot, which was no mean feat!
Beautiful day
TravelTrails83,Oct 6, 2021
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This day before arriving in Quilotoa Lagoon, we visited many places such as an indigenous house and small gallery. For us it was a very good tour since we saw unique places like mountains indigenous people with their typical clouthing and many wheat farms. The lagoon without mention is spectacular, beautiful yo take pics, although the walk back is tough but it was worth it…
Beautiful Quilotoa
295arad,Jun 12, 2019
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I cannot imagine a better informed, engaging and knowledgeable guide than Eduardo. He showed me all the sights with perfect explanations in English. The time in Quilotoa was amazing. My only regret was not being able to spend hours more there. It’s impossible to not love this place. The horse ride up is worth it’s value in gold!!!!
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