This one-day cultural tour takes in one of the most beautiful lagoons in South America, the amazing Laguna Quilotoa and the surrounding villages. This trip pays special attention to the culture and rural life of indigenous Andean people. We will visit the first missionary church in Ecuador located in Pujili. This is followed by a trip through the indigenous villages of the area which provide a fantastic chance to see the real Ecuador. When we arrive at the spectacular Laguna we hike down to the Laguna and back up again in a stunning two-hour hike. It is possible to hire mules for part of the trek.
The drive to Laguna Quilotoa – an amazing emerald lagoon inside a volcano crater at the height of 3,800m - displays beautiful views of the Andean mountains. We will pass the ancient canyon of Zumbahua and many indigenous towns and farmlands. Before lunch we will visit a local aboriginal home where you have the opportunity to interact with the inhabitants. The tour includes a steep hike down to the lagoons shore.
"Quilotoa is absolutely stunning! Although it is harder to hike at that altitude, it was just so spectacular that we spent the afternoon in awe and breathless!"
Price: $45
Includes: Professional bilingual guide, lunch and transportation from and back to Quito.
Excludes: Quilotoa entrance fee ($2), tips for the guide and an optional a mule ($8) for part of the trek
Yanapuma offers weekend excursions to places of interest around Quito and Cuenca. These are organized and run by certified and responsible agencies, offering security and reliability so that you can relax and enjoy these stunning and beautiful environments.