How to Plan Your Quilotoa Full Day Tour in Quito

If you’re looking for a way to explore the natural beauty of Ecuador, a full-day tour to Quilotoa is the perfect option for you. This tour will take you on an adventure through the Andes Mountains, where you will see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

Overview

The Quilotoa Full Day tour is organized by AUROX TRAVEL and is a private tour available for your group only. You will be provided with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and an experienced guide who can speak English and Spanish. The tour includes a visit to the Quilotoa lagoon, lunch, and transportation to and from your hotel.

What’s Included

• Private transportation
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Entrance to the Quilotoa lagoon
• Lunch
• English and Spanish-speaking guide
• Transportation to and from your hotel

Meeting And Pickup

Pickup Points

You will have the option to select a pickup point when you book the tour. The following options are available:

• Hotel Cayman
• Hotel Dann Carlton Quito
• Hotel KAIA
• Hotel Mercure Alameda Quito
• Hotel Wyndham Garden Quito

Start time

The tour starts at 08:00 AM.

Pickup details

The tour provider offers a complimentary pickup service from hotels in Quito. Passengers will be picked up in the hotel lobby at the designated pickup time.

What To Expect

Laguna Quilotoa

The first stop on the tour is the Quilotoa lagoon. This stunning lake is located inside a volcanic crater and is known for its bright blue-green color. You’ll have the opportunity to walk around the rim of the crater and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Quilotoa

The next stop on the tour is the town of Quilotoa, which is located near the lagoon. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit local markets and shops that sell traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Local Villages

On the way back to Quito, you’ll stop at several local villages that specialize in making traditional handicrafts such as ceramics, textiles, and wood carvings. You’ll be able to watch the artisans at work and purchase souvenirs to bring back home.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible
• The tour is accessible by public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Most travelers can participate
• The tour is a private tour only available for your group

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Booking the Tour

If you’re ready to book your Quilotoa Full Day tour in Quito, you can do so by visiting the tour’s page on Viator. Book the tour here: book the tour here.

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The Quilotoa Full Day tour in Quito is an excellent way to explore the stunning natural beauty of Ecuador. You’ll be able to see breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains, visit local villages, and learn about traditional handicrafts. If you’re interested in experiencing the best of Ecuador, this tour is an excellent choice for you.

FAQ about Quito: Everything You Need to Know

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and one of the most beautiful cities in South America. It’s situated in the Andes mountain range and offers a mix of history, culture, and nature. If you’re planning to visit Quito, there may be many questions going through your mind. To help you out, we’ve gathered some frequently asked questions about Quito and answered them below.

1. What is the best time to visit Quito?

The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, it’s also the busiest season, so you should expect large crowds and higher prices. Another good time to visit is from October to December, when there are fewer tourists, and the prices are more reasonable.

2. What is the currency of Quito?

The currency used in Quito is the US dollar. Ecuador adopted the dollar as its official currency in 2000, after a severe economic crisis. You won’t have to worry about exchanging currency when you arrive in Quito, and you can easily withdraw cash from ATMs located throughout the city.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Quito?

Quito offers many tourist attractions, and there’s something for everyone. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

a. La Mitad del Mundo

La Mitad del Mundo is a monument located on the equator line, marking the exact spot where the northern and southern hemispheres meet. It’s a popular tourist spot and offers excellent opportunities for taking photos.

b. Old Town

Old Town is the historic center of Quito and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s known for its colonial architecture, narrow streets, and quaint plazas. You can spend hours wandering around Old Town, admiring its beauty and learning about its history.

c. El Panecillo

El Panecillo is a hill located in the middle of Quito, offering panoramic views of the city. At the top of the hill, there’s a statue of the Virgin Mary, known as “La Virgen de Quito.”

d. Teleferico

Teleferico is a cable car that takes you up to the top of Pichincha volcano, offering breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding mountains.

4. What is the food like in Quito?

Quito has a diverse culinary scene, and you’ll find many excellent restaurants serving both traditional Ecuadorian dishes and international cuisine. Some of the must-try Ecuadorian dishes include:

a. Ceviche

Ceviche is a seafood dish made with shrimp, fish, or other seafood marinated in lime juice and spices.

b. Locro

Locro is a traditional soup made with potatoes, cheese, avocado, and corn. It’s a hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for cold days.

c. Hornado

Hornado is a roasted pork dish served with potatoes, corn, and avocado. It’s a popular dish in Ecuador and often served during festivals and special occasions.

5. Is it safe to travel to Quito?

Quito is generally a safe city, but like any other big city, it’s important to take precautions to stay safe. Here are some safety tips for traveling to Quito:

a. Avoid walking alone at night.

It’s not recommended to walk alone at night, especially in areas that are poorly lit or unfamiliar.

b. Be aware of your surroundings.

Be alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or public transportation.

c. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you, and keep your belongings close to you.

d. Use reputable taxis.

Only use reputable taxis, and avoid hailing taxis on the street. It’s safer to call a taxi or use a ride-sharing app like Uber.

6. What is the weather like in Quito?

Quito is located at a high altitude, which means the weather is generally cool and pleasant all year round. The average temperature in Quito is around 65°F (18°C). However, the weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in one day.

7. What are the best day trips from Quito?

There are many exciting day trips you can take from Quito. Here are some suggestions:

a. Otavalo

Otavalo is a small town located about 2 hours north of Quito, known for its indigenous market and traditional crafts.

b. Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi is a national park located about 2 hours south of Quito, known for its stunning landscapes and the Cotopaxi volcano.

c. Mindo

Mindo is a small town located about 2 hours west of Quito, known for its cloud forest and diverse wildlife.

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Quito is an amazing city with something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant nightlife, there’s never a dull moment in Quito. We hope this FAQ has helped answer some of your questions about Quito and has inspired you to visit this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its well-preserved historic center and nearby natural wonders, Quito offers a unique experience for any tourist. In this article, we will explain how to spend your time as a tourist in Quito.

1. Explore the Historic Center

The historic center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. With numerous churches, colonial houses, and plazas, the historic center provides a glimpse into Ecuador’s past. One of the must-see attractions is La Compañía de Jesús, a baroque church with an impressive interior covered in gold leaf. Also visit the Plaza de la Independencia, the heart of the city and surrounded by colonial-era buildings.

2. Visit the Middle of the World Monument

Located just outside Quito, the Middle of the World Monument marks the equator, the line that divides the Earth into the northern and southern hemispheres. At this site, you can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and one foot in the southern hemisphere. The monument also has a museum educating visitors about the geology and indigenous cultures of the region.

3. Take a Trip to Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park is located just south of Quito and features a beautiful active volcano. Visitors can hike to the summit or explore the park’s trails and scenic vistas. The park also has a rich cultural history and is home to indigenous communities, who still practice traditional ways of life.

4. Experience Quito’s Cuisine

Ecuadorian cuisine is diverse, delicious, and often cost-efficient. Traditional dishes include ceviche, roast pork, and empanadas. To experience the best of Ecuadorian cuisine, head to the Mercado Central, the city’s main market. Here you can find a vast array of food stalls serving up traditional dishes that will make your taste buds sing.

5. Take a Cable Car to Pichincha Volcano

For sweeping views of the city, take a cable car ride to the summit of Pichincha Volcano. The ride takes you through beautiful Andean scenery, culminating in breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding mountains.

6. Tour the Museo de la Ciudad

The Museo de la Ciudad, located in the historic center, showcases the city’s history through various exhibits, photos, and interactive displays. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the city’s cultural heritage, including its diverse communities, art, and architecture.

7. Visit the Mindo Cloud Forest

Looking for a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the city? Take a trip to the Mindo Cloud Forest, located about two hours from Quito. The forest is home to a staggering variety of flora and fauna, including an abundance of bird species. Visitors can hike through the forest, explore waterfalls, and even go zip-lining.

8. Attend a Traditional Festival

Ecuador is known for its vibrant cultural festivals, and Quito is no exception. From the Fiesta de San Juan to the Fiestas de Quito, there is always a festival happening in the city. These festivals provide a unique opportunity to experience Ecuador’s cultural heritage, including its music, dance, and food.

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Quito is a city full of rich cultural experiences and natural beauty. From the historic center to the nearby natural wonders, there is always something new to discover. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, Quito has something for everyone.