While the full multi-day loop often requires independent trekking, these guided excursions offer a convenient way to experience the highlights of the Quilotoa Loop in less time. Enjoy hassle-free transportation from Quito, expert local guides, and stunning views of the turquoise crater lake without the strenuous logistical planning.
Free Cancellation Hike to the turquoise crater lake of Quilotoa, located inside the Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve near Quito.
Free Cancellation Visit the Cotopaxi volcano and the turquoise Quilotoa Lagoon on a full-day tour through the Ecuadorian Andes.
Free Cancellation Discover the Andes and Baños through local eyes, blending indigenous culture, nature, and adventure at a relaxed pace.
Free Cancellation Hike down to the turquoise waters of Quilotoa crater after a scenic drive through the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes.
Free Cancellation Expert-led tours featuring comfortable transportation and a diverse menu with full vegetarian and vegan options.
Free Cancellation Explore the turquoise waters of the Quilotoa volcanic caldera on this full-day excursion from Quito.
Free Cancellation Explore the Quilotoa crater lake, visit a traditional village, and see the Toachi Canyon on a full-day cultural trip.
Free Cancellation Walk through the lagoon's surrounding landscape and visit the local communities living nearby.
Free Cancellation Visit the emerald Quilotoa Crater on a day trip from Quito featuring a local market stop and a hike to the lakeshore.
Free Cancellation Visit Cotopaxi National Park and Quilotoa Lagoon on a private full-day trip from your hotel in Quito.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Quilotoa Lagoon — from practical tips to personal highlights.
A tour to Quilotoa Lagoon offers an unforgettable journey into the high-altitude Ecuadorian Andes. You will experience dramatic volcanic landscapes, connect with local indigenous culture, and witness the breathtaking sight of a massive, emerald-green crater lake.
Stand on a transparent, glass-bottomed structure suspended 3,900 meters above sea level. This viewpoint offers unparalleled panoramic views of the entire three-kilometer-wide caldera.
Descend the steep 1.4-kilometer trail down to the lake's shore. The sandy, volcanic path takes you through a rugged, prehistoric-looking landscape right to the water's edge.
Rent a kayak at the bottom of the crater to paddle across the cold, mineral-rich turquoise waters. It provides an incredible perspective of the towering crater walls from below.
Skip the grueling high-altitude climb back to the rim by renting a mule. Local guides will lead you up the sandy path, saving your legs from a strenuous uphill trek.
Explore the rustic village of Quilotoa and nearby artisan communities like Tigua. You can browse vibrant markets, view traditional sheep-hide paintings, and sample regional Andean dishes.
Many tours stop at this spectacular roadside lookout just outside of Zumbahua. It offers outstanding panoramic views of a deep, dramatic gorge carved into the mountain landscape.
Planning a trip to Quilotoa requires a bit of preparation due to the extreme altitude and remote location. Here are the essential details you need to know before booking your tour.
Most visitors opt for full-day guided group tours departing from Quito, which take about 10 to 11 hours. There are also private tours for a more personalized pace, combo tours that include Cotopaxi National Park, and multi-day treks along the Quilotoa Loop.
Standard tours typically include round-trip transportation, a bilingual guide, and the $2.00 local community entrance fee. Some premium or private tours also include a local lunch, but breakfast and gratuities are almost always excluded.
Hiking down into the crater and back up is physically demanding due to the steep, sandy terrain and the 3,914-meter elevation. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level, though you always have the option to rent a mule for the return climb.
The crater rim sits at nearly 4,000 meters above sea level, making altitude sickness a real risk. It is highly recommended to acclimatize in Quito or Latacunga for a few days before taking this tour.
Mountain weather changes rapidly from sunny to freezing and windy. Bring multiple warm layers, a windproof jacket, gloves, a hat, and sturdy hiking boots with good traction for the slippery volcanic soil.
There are no ATMs in Quilotoa, and most local vendors do not accept cards. Bring small bills in physical USD cash to pay for kayak rentals, snacks, artisan crafts, or the $10 mule ride.
For tours departing from Quito, pick-ups are usually centralized in three main areas: La Carolina, Plaza Foch, and Plaza Grande. If you are staying outside these zones, you may need to meet at a central point or pay an extra transfer fee.
Most tour operators offer flexible booking conditions. You can generally receive a full refund if you cancel your tour at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
| Full-Day Group Tour | Cotopaxi & Quilotoa Combo | Private Quilotoa Tour | 3-Day Andes Adventure | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10 - 11 hours | 10 - 12 hours | 8 - 10 hours | 3 days |
| Best for | Budget travelers & solo backpackers | Seeing both major volcanoes in one day | Families & personalized pacing | Immersive cultural & nature exploration |
| Key Inclusions | Transport, bilingual guide, entrance fees | Transport, guide, lunch, national park fees | Private transport, lunch, certified guide | Cotopaxi, Quilotoa, Baños entrances, transport |
| Price from | $59 | $177 | $75 | $239 |
The Quilotoa Community and the surrounding Reserva Ecológica Los Illinizas are open year-round.
If you are taking a guided tour from Quito, expect an early morning departure (usually around 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.) to ensure you arrive at the lagoon before afternoon clouds roll in.
Quilotoa is located about 178 kilometers (111 miles) southwest of Quito. Driving takes a little over 3 hours via the South Pan-American Highway.
The optimal time to visit Quilotoa is during the drier season, which runs from June to September, as well as a brief dry window in December and early January.
These months provide the most stable weather, clearer skies for photography, and safer, less muddy trail conditions for hiking into the crater. Try to arrive at the rim before midday, as the lake's turquoise colors are most vibrant when the sun is directly overhead.
Visiting during major Ecuadorian holidays (like Christmas or New Year) can result in crowded viewpoints and heavily booked accommodations.
Accessibility at Quilotoa is mixed, depending on what you want to do.
The local indigenous community has developed several facilities to support visitors at the crater rim.
To protect the environment and ensure visitor safety, the local community and ecological reserve enforce several strict rules:
No, swimming in the lagoon is strictly prohibited. The water is freezing cold, contains unhealthy volcanic minerals, and the crater floor drops off rapidly to 250 meters deep, making it extremely dangerous.
Most guided tours include the $2.00 community entry fee required to access the village and viewpoints. If your tour visits Cotopaxi on the same day, national park fees are typically covered as well, but always check your specific itinerary.
The 1.4-kilometer trail is very steep, sandy, and slippery. Going down takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is moderately difficult. The real challenge is the hike back up, which takes 45 to 90 minutes and is highly strenuous due to the 3,914-meter altitude.
Yes, if you find the uphill climb too difficult, you can rent a mule from local guides at the lake shore. The ride costs about $10 USD and takes you safely back to the top of the crater.
You must dress in warm layers. Even on sunny days, the wind at the crater rim can be freezing. Bring a windproof coat, gloves, a warm hat, and wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip for the sandy trails.
Because the village sits at 3,914 meters (12,841 feet), altitude sickness is a real possibility. It is highly recommended to spend a few days acclimatizing in Quito or Latacunga before taking a tour to Quilotoa.
No, there are no ATMs in the Quilotoa community, and most local shops, restaurants, and mule handlers do not accept credit cards. You should bring plenty of small USD bills from Quito or Latacunga.
The drive from Quito takes a little over 3 hours each way. Most full-day tours depart early in the morning to maximize time at the lagoon and make scenic stops along the Avenue of Volcanoes.
Depending on the specific tour, you may stop at the spectacular Toachi River Canyon, visit an indigenous artisan workshop in the Tigua community, or explore the traditional Zumbahua market.
Some tours, especially private ones or combo tours, include a local lunch. However, breakfast is almost always excluded. Check your specific tour inclusions and bring some snacks and water just in case.
Browse verified tours with free cancellation and instant confirmation.
Find Tours
The Los Ilinizas Ecological Reserve is located a three-hour drive from Quito. Its most prominent feature is the Quilotoa volcano, which contains a large crater lagoon known for its vivid turquoise water. The landscape is shaped by the high-altitude Andean environment and the volcanic history of the region. Once at the site, you can view the lagoon from the rim or descend into the crater itself. The mineral-rich water creates a sharp contrast against the rocky walls of the caldera, offering a clear look at one of Ecuador's most recognizable geological formations.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This 10-hour trip is designed for travelers who want to see both the Cotopaxi volcano and the Quilotoa Lagoon in a single day. The day begins with a visit to Cotopaxi National Park, where you can observe the volcano and the high-altitude páramo ecosystem. The tour moves at a pace that allows for photography at various viewpoints and is conducted in either a private or small-group setting. Later, you will head to the Quilotoa crater to see the turquoise lagoon. You have the choice to stay at the top for the views or hike down to the shore. The tour is suitable for anyone in basic physical condition, though the high altitude should be noted. You should bring a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen to prepare for the mountain climate.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Join our team of local Ecuadorian guides for an immersive trip through the Andes and Baños. We focus on connecting you with indigenous communities and exploring the diverse landscapes of our home. This tour balances cultural learning with outdoor adventure, giving you a comprehensive look at the region’s heritage and natural beauty. We prioritize a relaxed travel style, ensuring you have ample time at each stop rather than rushing through a checklist. Our goal is to share the authentic character of Ecuador with you, moving at a pace that allows for genuine discovery. While we guarantee that you will visit every attraction listed in the itinerary, the order of stops and daily activities may vary based on local operating conditions. We will send you the finalized schedule one day before the tour starts.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day excursion departs from Quito and travels south through the Avenue of Volcanoes. The route offers views of the high-altitude peaks and rural landscapes that define the Ecuadorian Andes. Along the way, you will learn about the history and customs of the indigenous cultures that have inhabited these highlands for generations. Upon reaching the Quilotoa Lagoon, you will begin a moderate hike from the rim down to the water's edge. The trail allows you to experience the scale of the volcanic crater and see the mineral-rich water up close. After spending time at the bottom, you will return to the top to take in the final views of the caldera before the drive back to the city.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
Our team consists of certified guides and professional staff who manage every detail of the itinerary. We use modern, well-maintained vehicles for all transportation to ensure a reliable and comfortable trip between destinations. Dining is a central part of the experience, featuring a menu designed to cater to various preferences. In addition to our standard offerings, we provide specific meal options for vegetarian and vegan guests to ensure everyone is well-catered for during the tour.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day trip departs from Quito to visit the Quilotoa Lagoon, a water-filled caldera located inside an active volcano. Known for its bright turquoise color, the lake is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Ecuadorian highlands. The itinerary is designed for travelers looking to experience the rural Andes and return to the capital within the same day. The tour includes a stop for breakfast on the way to the volcano. After arriving at the crater, you will have time to take in the views and explore the site before the return drive to Quito. This round-trip journey provides a straightforward way to see the lagoon without an overnight stay.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day excursion takes you into the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes to see Laguna Quilotoa, a deep turquoise lake formed within a volcanic crater. Along the way, the tour stops at the Toachi Canyon to view the dramatic rock formations and the river below. The experience focuses on local life as much as the landscape. You will spend time in an indigenous village and visit a native home to learn about high-altitude agricultural traditions and daily customs. After trying some regional food, you can hike the trails around the crater to see the water from different vantage points.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This guided walk follows trails around the lagoon, providing a direct view of the local landscape. Along the route, you will have the opportunity to meet the people who live in the communities near the water. Our guides select paths that are easy to navigate, allowing you to focus on the scenery and the natural environment. The pace is set to give you enough time to take photos and see the area's wildlife and plants up close.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This full-day tour travels 2.5 hours south of Quito to the Quilotoa Crater, a dormant volcano known for its vibrant emerald-colored lake. The itinerary includes a stop at a traditional indigenous market where you can observe local commerce and craftsmanship before continuing to the crater rim. Once at the site, you can hike down the winding trail to reach the water's edge. The descent provides clear views of the caldera and the surrounding Andean highlands. At the bottom, you have the option to swim in the lake or simply rest along the shore before returning to the top.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish
This private tour departs from Quito to visit two of the most significant natural landmarks in the Ecuadorian Andes: Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa crater lake. By combining these sites into a single day, you can see the region's volcanic landscapes and high-altitude lagoons without the stress of navigating mountain roads yourself. The trip includes door-to-door transport from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Because the experience is private, you can set a flexible pace that suits your interests. You will have time to explore the park and the turquoise waters of the Quilotoa lagoon with the assistance of a professional guide who handles all logistics and timing. The tour is designed for travelers who want to see Ecuador's iconic highlands efficiently while maintaining the comfort of personalized service.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
English, Spanish