How to Plan Your Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day in Quito

How to Plan Your Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day in Quito

Are you traveling to Quito soon and looking to explore the natural beauty of Ecuador? Look no further than the Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day offered by Viator. This private tour allows you to visit two of Ecuador’s top natural attractions, the Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa Lagoon, in just one day. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your tour:

Step 1: Book Your Tour

First things first, you need to book your tour. Viator offers the Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day with hotel pick-up and drop-off in Quito. The tour includes a professional guide and lunch. Book your tour here: book the tour here.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour

Before you set off on your tour, there are a few things you need to prepare. Start by packing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes. You’ll also need a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the natural landscapes. And don’t forget to bring some cash, as not all facilities accept credit cards.

Step 3: Pickup and Drop-off

The tour offers pickup and drop-off from any hotel in Quito. The pickup time is 7:00 AM, so be sure to be ready at your hotel lobby at that time.

Step 4: Explore Cotopaxi National Park

The first stop on your tour is the Cotopaxi National Park. It takes around 2 hours to reach the park from Quito. In the park, you can explore the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano, which stands at 5,897 meters of altitude. You’ll also visit Laguna de Limpiopungo, a beautiful high altitude lake surrounded by golden pampas grasses.

Step 5: Visit Quilotoa Lagoon

The next stop on your tour is the Quilotoa Lagoon. The journey takes around 4 hours from Cotopaxi National Park. The jewel in the crown of the lagoon is the aquamarine water resting inside a collapsed volcano. The views from the top of the volcano are nothing short of stunning, and on a clear day, the sky meets the perfect blue hues of the water below.

Step 6: Enjoy Lunch

After your visit to Quilotoa Lagoon, you’ll stop for a delicious, traditional Ecuadorian lunch.

Step 7: Return to Quito

After lunch, you’ll head back to Quito. The drive takes around 3 hours, and you’ll be dropped off at your hotel around 7:00 PM.

Book Your Tour Now

The Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of Ecuador. With a private tour guide and comfortable transportation, you can explore these two stunning destinations at your own pace. Book your tour today and make the most of your time in Quito!

FAQs about Quito – The Beautiful Capital City of Ecuador

Quito is a vibrant city, located in the Andes mountains, and is the capital city of Ecuador. It is well-known for its colonial architecture, stunning mountain views, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning to visit Quito, then this FAQ guide will help you understand everything you need to know before you go.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Quito?

The best time to visit Quito is during the high season, which runs from June to August and December to January. During this period, the weather is warm and dry, and you’ll have the best opportunity to see the stunning views of the mountains that surround the city.

2. What are the Top Things to Do in Quito?

Quito has plenty of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Quito:

2.1. Visit the Historic Center of Quito

The historic center of Quito is one of the most well-preserved colonial centers in South America. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features several beautiful churches, plazas, and museums.

2.2. Go to the Teleferico

The Teleferico is a cable car that takes you up the Pichincha Volcano. From here, you can enjoy some of the best views of Quito and the surrounding mountains.

2.3. Visit the Mitad del Mundo

The Mitad del Mundo is a monument that marks the equator line, which divides the earth into two hemispheres. Here, you’ll find a museum, gift shops, and plenty of photo opportunities.

2.4. Explore the La Mariscal Neighborhood

La Mariscal is a trendy neighborhood in Quito. It offers a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and nightlife options.

3. What is the Currency in Quito?

The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar. It is advisable to carry small denominations of dollars when visiting Quito.

4. Is it Safe to Travel to Quito?

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to be vigilant when traveling. As with any city, it’s recommended to avoid any areas that are known to be dangerous or unsafe.

5. What is the Language Spoken in Quito?

The official language of Ecuador is Spanish. However, many people in Quito speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases if you plan to visit Quito.

6. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Quito?

Visitors from several countries, including the United States and Canada, do not need a visa to visit Ecuador for up to 90 days. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the Ecuadorian embassy or consulate in your country before you travel.

7. What is the Local Transportation Like in Quito?

Quito has a modern and efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, taxis, and the Metro. The Metro is a fast and safe way to travel around the city, and it’s also very affordable.

8. What is the Climate Like in Quito?

Quito has a subtropical highland climate, which means that it’s generally cool and mild all year round. The temperature usually ranges from 50°F to 70°F, and it can get chilly at night. It’s important to remember to pack layers when visiting Quito.

9. What Are Some Local Customs to Know Before Traveling to Quito?

Here are some local customs to keep in mind when visiting Quito: – Always greet people with a smile and a handshake. – Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. – Ask for permission before taking someone’s photo. – Don’t drink tap water. Stick to bottled water.

10. What Should I Pack When Traveling to Quito?

When traveling to Quito, it’s important to pack the following items: – Warm clothes for chilly nights – Good walking shoes – Sunscreen and sunglasses – Insect repellent – A hat and rain jacket

Book Your Tour Now

Quito is a stunning city, full of history, culture, and natural beauty. With this FAQ guide, you’ll have all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Quito. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, explore the beautiful parks and plazas, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful Andean city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Quito

Quito is the capital city of Ecuador and one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America. With its picturesque colonial architecture, stunning views of the Andes Mountains, and vibrant culture, Quito offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. If you are planning a trip to Quito, here is a guide on how you can spend your time as a tourist in this beautiful city.

1. Visit the Old Town

Quito’s Old Town, or “Centro Histórico,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for any tourist. It is one of the best-preserved historic centers in South America, with well-preserved colonial-era buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and plazas. Visit the Plaza Grande, where you can see the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral of Quito. You can also explore the La Compañía de Jesús Church, known for its stunning baroque architecture and gold leaf decorations. Don’t forget to visit the famous Calle La Ronda, a street lined with unique shops, restaurants, and bars.

2. Explore the TelefériQo

The best way to see the stunning views of Quito is from the TelefériQo. This cable car takes you up the slopes of the Pichincha volcano to an altitude of 4,100 meters. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding mountains. If you are feeling adventurous, you can take a hike to the top of the volcano or explore the nearby botanical gardens.

3. Visit the Mitad del Mundo

Another popular attraction in Quito is the Mitad del Mundo, or “Middle of the World.” This monument marks the spot where the equator intersects with the Earth’s surface. Visitors can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere. You can also visit the Intiñan Museum, which demonstrates the unique physics and experiments that occur at the equator.

4. Enjoy Quito’s Food Scene

Ecuadorian cuisine is both diverse and delicious, and Quito offers some of the best food in the country. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional dishes like ceviche, locro soup, and roasted guinea pig. Quito also has a vibrant street food scene, with vendors offering everything from empanadas to roasted corn on the cob. For a unique dining experience, try one of the city’s gourmet restaurants, which fuse Ecuadorian ingredients and techniques with international cuisines.

5. Take a Day Trip to Otavalo

Just a few hours from Quito is Otavalo, a charming town known for its vibrant indigenous markets. Here, you can find everything from handmade textiles to traditional ceramics and jewelry. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the weavers in action or try some delicious native dishes like hornado, a slow-roasted pork dish.

6. See the Street Art

Quito has a thriving street art scene, with murals and graffiti adorning the walls of buildings throughout the city. Take a walking tour to see some of the most impressive pieces, which often carry political messages or cultural significance. Some of the best spots to see street art include the La Floresta neighborhood and the area around the Guapulo Church.

7. Relax in the Parks

Quito is known for its lush green spaces and parks, which provide a relaxing escape from the bustle of the city. Check out the Parque Metropolitano, one of the largest urban parks in South America, which has numerous trails for hiking and biking, as well as a botanical garden. You can also visit the Parque La Carolina, a popular spot for picnics and sports.

Book Your Tour Now

Quito is a city that truly has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. With so many things to see and do, it’s impossible to see everything in one trip. However, with this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Quito and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget to take advantage of the city’s unique culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty.

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How to Plan Your Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day in Quito