How to Plan Your Quilotoa Full Day Tour in Quito

Are you planning a trip to Quito and want to experience the natural beauty of the Andes? Look no further than the Quilotoa Full Day Tour! This private tour takes you to the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon, surrounded by majestic mountains and filled with sparkling blue-green water. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Quilotoa Full Day Tour in Quito.

Overview

The Quilotoa Full Day Tour is a private tour that includes:

1. Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
2. Entrance to the Quilotoa Lagoon
3. Lunch

You’ll start your day at 8:00 am with pickup from your hotel lobby. From there, you’ll travel to the Quilotoa Lagoon for a day of stunning natural beauty.

Meeting and Pickup

Passengers will be picked up in the hotel lobby by a driver from Aurox Travel. Pickup points are available throughout Quito, and you can select the most convenient one when you book your tour. The tour begins promptly at 8:00 am, so be sure to arrive on time.

What to Expect

During the tour, you’ll have four stops. Here’s what you can expect at each one:

Stop 1: Laguna Quilotoa

Duration: 3 minutes Admission Ticket Included Your first stop on the Quilotoa Full Day Tour is Laguna Quilotoa. This is a stunningly beautiful crater lake that’s surrounded by rugged cliffs. The lake itself is over 250 meters deep, and the water is a sparkling blue-green color. You’ll have a chance to take some stunning photographs before continuing on to the next stop.

Stop 2: Quilotoa

Duration: 3 minutes Admission Ticket Free Your second stop on the tour is Quilotoa. This is a small Andean village that’s perched on the edge of the Quilotoa crater. You’ll have a chance to explore the village, see the local handicrafts, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Stop 3: Tigua

Duration: 20 minutes Admission Ticket Free Tigua is a small town located near Quilotoa. This town is famous for its art, which includes vibrant paintings on sheepskin canvases. You’ll have a chance to browse the local shops and see the artists at work. Don’t forget to take home a piece of authentic Tigua art as a souvenir!

Stop 4: Pujilí

Duration: 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free Your final stop on the Quilotoa Full Day Tour is Pujilí. This is a small town that’s famous for its market. You’ll have a chance to browse the market stalls and see the local products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts.

Additional Info

Here are some additional things you should know about the Quilotoa Full Day Tour:

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your Quilotoa Full Day Tour, here’s what you need to know:

• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are at the discretion of the tour operator and may be subject to a fee.

Book Your Quilotoa Full Day Tour

Ready to experience the natural beauty of the Andes? Book your Quilotoa Full Day Tour now with Aurox Travel. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience! Book your tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quito

Quito is the capital city of Ecuador and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and stunning natural scenery. If you’re planning a trip to Quito, you might have some questions about the city. In this FAQ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about Quito.

1. What is the best time to visit Quito?

The best time to visit Quito is between June and September when the weather is dry and sunny. During this time, you’ll also be able to witness some of the city’s most important festivals, such as the Festival of San Juan and the Festival of La Ronda.

However, if you don’t mind cooler temperatures, you can also visit Quito from October to December when the city experiences its spring season. The months of January to May are the rainy season, which can still be a good time to visit if you don’t mind occasional rain showers.

2. Is Quito a safe city?

Quito is generally a safe city to visit, but it’s important to take certain precautions to avoid any potential risks. As with any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist sites. It’s also recommended to only use official taxis, and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Quito?

There are plenty of interesting and beautiful attractions to visit in Quito, including:

• The historic Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site
• The stunning La Compania de Jesus Church with its intricate Baroque architecture
• The Teleferico cable car ride to the top of the Pichincha volcano for breathtaking views of the city
• The El Panecillo hill with its famous statue of the Virgin Mary
• The vibrant La Mariscal neighborhood with its many restaurants, bars, and shops

4. What is the currency used in Quito?

The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar. You can easily exchange your currency at banks and exchange bureaus throughout the city. It’s also common to use credit cards in Quito, especially in larger stores and hotels.

5. What is the food like in Quito?

Quito has a diverse food culture, with many traditional dishes and modern fusion cuisine. Some popular dishes to try include:

• Ceviche – a seafood dish marinated in lime juice
• Hornado – roasted pork served with potatoes, avocado, and corn
• Locro – a hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, corn, and avocado
• Llapingachos – potato cakes stuffed with cheese and served with meat or avocado

You’ll also find plenty of international cuisine in Quito, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian restaurants.

6. What is the best way to get around Quito?

There are several options for getting around Quito, including public transportation, taxis, and rental cars. The city has an extensive bus system that is cheap and reliable, although it can be crowded at peak times.

Taxis are also affordable and widely available, but it’s important to make sure you’re using an official taxi and negotiate the fare before getting in.

If you’re planning to explore outside the city center or visit nearby attractions, renting a car can be a good option. However, be aware that driving in Quito can be challenging, with heavy traffic and narrow roads in some areas.

7. What should I pack for a trip to Quito?

When packing for Quito, it’s important to consider the weather and the activities you have planned. Since the weather can be unpredictable, it’s always a good idea to bring layers and a waterproof jacket for any rain showers.

If you plan to do a lot of walking or hiking, comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and a hat for protection from the sun.

8. How can I learn more about Quito’s history and culture?

There are plenty of museums and cultural sites in Quito where you can learn more about the city’s rich history and diverse culture. Some popular options include:

• The Museo Nacional del Banco Central – a museum dedicated to Ecuador’s history and culture
• The Casa del Alabado – a museum of pre-Columbian art and culture
• The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo – a museum of modern and contemporary art
• The Centro Cultural Metropolitano – a cultural center with exhibitions, performances, and workshops

If you’re interested in learning more about traditional crafts and techniques, you can also visit artisan markets and workshops throughout the city.

9. What are some popular day trips from Quito?

There are plenty of interesting and beautiful destinations within easy reach of Quito, making it a great base for day trips. Some popular options include:

• The Cotopaxi National Park – home to the Cotopaxi volcano and scenic hiking trails
• The Otavalo Market – the largest indigenous market in South America
• The Mindo Cloud Forest – a lush rainforest with plenty of hiking and birdwatching opportunities
• The Papallacta Hot Springs – natural hot springs with beautiful mountain scenery

10. What are some eco-friendly and sustainable travel options in Quito?

If you’re interested in eco-friendly and sustainable travel options, there are plenty of ways to minimize your impact while exploring Quito and its surroundings. Some ideas include:

• Booking a hotel or hostel that has eco-friendly policies and practices, such as recycling and energy conservation
• Choosing tour companies and activities that prioritize sustainability and environmental protection
• Eating at restaurants that use locally sourced, organic ingredients and avoid single-use plastics
• Using public transportation, walking, or cycling instead of rental cars to reduce your carbon footprint

By making conscious choices and supporting eco-friendly initiatives, you can help protect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Quito for future generations to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, Quito has something to offer everyone. By using this FAQ as a guide, you can start planning your trip to Quito with confidence, knowing what to expect and how to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quito

Quito is known for its rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture. As a tourist, there are so many things to see and do in this beautiful city that it can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will walk you through the best ways to spend your time in Quito, from exploring historic landmarks to indulging in the local cuisine.

1. Visit the Historic Centre of Quito

The Historic Centre of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century. It is home to some of the most significant historical landmarks in Quito, such as the Independence Plaza, the Presidential Palace, and the Cathedral of Quito. Take a walk through the narrow streets and admire the colonial architecture of the buildings. Don’t forget to visit La Ronda, a picturesque street full of artisan shops, cafes, and restaurants.

2. Explore the Museums of Quito

Quito has several museums that showcase the country’s rich history, culture, and art. The most popular museums are the Museum of Colonial Art, the Casa del Alabado Museum, and the Museum of the City. The Museum of Colonial Art features art and artifacts from the colonial period of Ecuador, while the Casa del Alabado Museum has a collection of pre-Columbian art. The Museum of the City is a must-visit to learn about the history of Quito and its evolution.

3. Take a Cable Car Ride to Pichincha Volcano

The Pichincha Volcano is a prominent landmark in Quito, and the best way to see it is by taking a cable car ride. The cable car takes you to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Once you reach the top, you can indulge in various activities like hiking, horseback riding, and bird watching.

4. Visit the Middle of the World Monument

The Middle of the World Monument is located 20 kilometers north of Quito and marks the equator line that divides the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. You can take a tour of the monument and stand on both sides of the equator line. Don’t forget to visit the Intiñan Museum, which is next to the monument, to learn about the indigenous culture of Ecuador and witness some fascinating experiments demonstrating the equatorial phenomena.

5. Taste the Local Cuisine

Ecuador is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine that reflects the country’s cultural heritage. There are several street vendors and restaurants where you can try traditional dishes like ceviche, empanadas, locro, and churrasco. Don’t forget to try the famous Ecuadorian chocolate, which is known for its unique flavor.

6. Attend a Cultural Event

Quito has a vibrant cultural scene, and there is always something happening in the city. From music festivals to art exhibitions, there are plenty of events that showcase the local culture. Check out the schedule of events at the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana or the Teatro Nacional Sucre to see what’s happening during your visit.

Book Your Tour Now

Quito is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. By following this guide, you can make the most out of your visit and experience the best that Quito has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or adventure, there is something for everyone in this incredible city.