From Quito: A Full-Day Papallacta Tour

Are you looking for the perfect day trip from Quito to visit the stunning landscapes of Papallacta? This invigorating full-day tour is perfect for outdoor lovers looking for a chance to explore a place off the beaten tourist track. Get ready to experience thermal pools and stay overnight in one of the most beautiful Ecuadorian mountains.

What Will You Be Seeing on This Trip?

On this full-day tour, you will explore the best spots of the cloud forest of Ecuador while enjoying the stunning landscape of Papallacta. You will visit some stunning viewpoints to see the breathtaking panoramic views, get up close to the stunning waterfalls, and even have the chance to hike through some of its untouched cloud forests. This tour includes a stop at some beautiful thermal pools where you can soak your tired feet in the comforting hot temperatures, relax and enjoy the lush green surroundings. You also have the chance to spot some wildlife while you are getting closer to the local nature reserves.

What are the Highlights of this Trip?

The full-day Papallacta tour from Quito is a great way to get away from the city and enjoy some peaceful nature. The tour has something for everyone; from breathtaking views, thermal pools, bird watching, waterfalls and hikes to relax moments with nature. Some of the highlights of this full-day tour include:

• Visit the Papallacta thermal pools – perfect for a relaxing time.
• See stunning vistas of the surrounding hills from various peak views.
• Walk through the untouched cloud forest of Ecuador.
• Spot different kinds of wildlife & local bird species.
• Take exciting group hikes in the region.

How Long is this Trip?

The Papallacta full-day tour can last anywhere from 10 to 12 hours depending on how much time you want to spend exploring each location. You will be visiting seven different sites and each one can take up to two hours. That includes time for resting and taking pictures. The tour also includes a break during lunchtime at an included restaurant with traditional Ecuadorean food.

Price & Availability

The Papallacta full-day tour is available every day except for Sunday and Monday. It’s also available in small or big groups, where the small groups are limited to four people or less. The price includes transportation and lunch, as well as access to all 6 locations and 7 different sites. You can book your tour on GetYourGuide, so you don’t have to worry about making reservations or having a guide once you arrive in Ecuador. All you need to do is book your tour ahead of time, so you can simply enjoy the experience!

A Few Tips for the Tour

Here are a few tips that will make your full-day Papallacta tour even more enjoyable.

• Bring comfortable shoes so you can explore without getting blisters.
• Bring sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun, wind and insect bites.
• Dress in layers, since it can get cold during sunset or during the night time.
• Bring a camera and extra batteries – the sites are simply stunning!
• Try to sleep early, since you need plenty of energy for hiking up the mountains and exploring each location.

Conclusion

The full-day Papallacta tour from Quito can be an amazing and memorable experience for outdoor lovers. From seeing stunning vistas to visiting thermal pools, there’s plenty to take in during your day in this part of Ecuador. Make sure you book your trip ahead of time by visiting GetYourGuide, so you can just show up and enjoy this amazing experience!

An Insider’s Guide to Quito, Ecuador

As a vibrant and bustling city perched on the Andean foothills, Quito has much to offer beyond its breathtaking natural beauty. As a tourist, you may not know where to start or what to explore, but there are plenty of unique and exciting activities to experience if you know where to look. Here’s our insider guide to getting the most out of your visit to Quito:

Hidden Gems

While Quito has many popular tourist attractions like La Mitad del Mundo or the Basilica del Voto Nacional, there are also lesser-known destinations that offer an authentic taste of Ecuadorian culture. Secretly tucked away from the usual crowds, the Itchimbía Cultural Center offers spectacular views of the city and hosts live music and art exhibitions. Another hidden gem is the Guayasamín Museum, showcasing the works of Ecuador’s most renowned artist, Oswaldo Guayasamín. A visit to the El Ejido Park, Ecuador’s largest park, could also be an excursion to take in modern art, food, and shopping at its bustling weekly Fiestas de la Luz arts market.

Local Dining Delights

Quito is well known for its culinary specialties, including the famous Ecuadorian chocolate and ceviche. For an authentic dining experience, visit La Ronda Street, an old cobblestone street filled with some of the best traditional cuisine in the city. Visit El Ventanal, a restaurant with picturesque views of the city that features Ecuadorian ingredients and a fusion of international flavors. And for those with a sweet tooth, La Mariscal neighborhood has some of the best bakeries in the city, such as Dulce Placer and La Boheme.

Cultural Immersion

Quito’s cultural experience is a unique and unforgettable one. The city celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including La Mama Negra, where thousands of people from all over the world gather to celebrate African and indigenous culture. Visitors can also enjoy live performances of traditional music and dance at the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana. And during the weekend, don’t miss out on the vibrant Otavalo market, filled with unique and intricate handicrafts from local artisans.

Local History and Legends

Quito is a city steeped in history, with a rich colonial past. One of its most visited sites is the historic Old Town or, El Centro Histórico, home to numerous colonial-era mansions, plazas, and churches. Walk the Quito’s ancient cobblestone streets of the San Juan District, where centuries-old stories about independence and revolution occurred. You can also visit the Alabado Museum, where ancient indigenous and pre-Columbian artifacts are on display.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

If you’re up for a bit of risk and adventure, there’s plenty to explore off the beaten track in Quito. Explore the backstreets and less-traveled areas of La Floresta; here, you will find giant street murals and urban art, as well as some of the city’s best street food. Another adventure is hiking at the Pichincha Volcano, one of the most accessible mountains in the world, located only a few minutes outside of the heart of the city.

Quito is a city rich in history, culture, and culinary pleasures, waiting for you to explore its treasures. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time and take home many unforgettable memories.