
Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop worth booking?
Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop is a 9-hour experience in Quito, Ecuador, from $40 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 64 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (4)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $40 per person
Explore the wonders of the Andes on this tour, combining landscapes and culture in a single day. Experience local daily life in a vibrant traditional market, then become an artist for a day in the Tigua community; you will not only observe the process of their famous paintings but also learn the technique from local masters to create your own mini-painting. Finally, walk along the rim of an extinct volcano and marvel at the turquoise color of its lagoon.
What you get
About this experience
Explore the wonders of the Andes on this tour, combining landscapes and culture in a single day. Experience local daily life in a vibrant traditional market, then become an artist for a day in the Tigua community; you will not only observe the process of their famous paintings but also learn the technique from local masters to create your own mini-painting. Finally, walk along the rim of an extinct volcano and marvel at the turquoise color of its lagoon.
What's included
Included
- Entrance fees
- Bottle of purified water
- Professional bilingual Guide
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Tips
- Mule rental for return from the crater (optional)
What you'll see and do
Pujili
We will visit the active Indigenous market of the day (in Pujilí or Saquisilí), a vibrant hub for local culture. Enjoy exploring the colorful stalls, observing the dynamic trade of Andean products like fresh fruits and vegetables, and experience the traditions of the Sierra (Highlands) up close.
30 minutes here
Tigua
After visiting the local market, awaken your creativity as we head into the famous Tigua community. Here, a local artist will guide you through their ancestral techniques, such as using sheepskin as a canvas. The best part? You will paint and take home your own Andean masterpiece as a unique souvenir of your journey.
40 minutes here
Canon del Rio Toachi
We will stop at this strategic point to take in an unbeatable panoramic view of the deep canyon that cradles the Quilotoa Lagoon. This is a spectacular sight where the turquoise water dramatically contrasts with the surrounding volcanic crater.
15 minutes here
Laguna Quilotoa
Begin the downhill hike toward the crater floor, where the lagoon awaits. Enjoy the unique experience of being at the base of the extinct volcano and the tranquility by the water's edge. For the return ascent to the rim, the choice is yours: you can opt for a challenging hike or rent a mule for a more comfortable ride back up.For the adventurous, seize the opportunity to hike down to the lagoon's shore and then ascend back up (on foot or by mule for an additional cost).
90 minutes here · Admission included
Quilotoa
LUNCH TIME - Enjoy a well-deserved break for lunch. Your guide will recommend a local spot that will allow you to savor authentic Andean cuisine, offering you a true immersion into the region's culinary flavors and traditions.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Options you can book
Family and Friends
Driver Guide Transport Availability: Special SUV (Up to 4 passengers) or Mini Van available Pickup included
Mini Group
Driver Guide SUV (Toyota, Renault, Kia) Pickup included
Grand Expedition
Driver + Professional Guide Transport Availability: Mini Van (5 pax + guide) or Mini Bus (6-10 pax + guide) Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 11 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Andean Roots Travel
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Dress code is smart casual
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Operates in all weather conditions, weather may vary please dress appropriately
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Photo opportunities
1 mentionThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Good for families
1 mentionReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
4 verified traveler reviews for Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good time on Quitoloa tour.
This was a very good tour by Christian, our driver and guide. He spoke English well and was very knowledgeable about everything Ecuadorian. It was a long way to drive however, taking about 6 hours out of the 10 hour day.
Response from the operator: We are pleased to hear that Christian was an excellent guide and driver. We understand that reaching these unique destinations requires considerable travel time. For this reason, we always prioritize providing comfortable and safe transportation to make the journey as pleasant as possible. We truly appreciate your preference and hope to see you again soon on another adventure through Ecuador’s most memorable sites!
via Tripadvisor
Private tour to Quilotoa
We drove from Quito to Laguna Quilotoa. The car was nice and clean. The driver was lovely, but not fluent in english. We got through the day with his English, our Spanish and lots of sign language. Due to the language barrier he was not able to answer many of our questions.......I'd confirm your guide will be fluent...wish we had.
Response from the operator: Excellent
via Tripadvisor
Excellent guide and tour, beautiful views
We booked the private day trip to Quilotoa. Andean Roots Travel was quick to respond to any questions that I had regarding booking the tour. Juan Carlos was our guide and arrived promptly at our Airbnb at the pick up time. Luis was our driver which allowed Juan Carlos to sit in the small shuttle bus by us and tell us about what we saw on the way. He spoke excellent English and explained that he took over 3 years of college classes specifically to become a guide and then moved to the US for over a year to improve his English. He was extremely easy to talk with and we learned so much about Ecuador from him. We stopped along the way at an art gallery/gift shop and Juan explained the meaning of many of the paintings to help us understand the Ecuadorian culture. The drive went by quickly as the views were amazing. We then arrived at the crater and Juan took pictures of our family from the top and then at stops on the way down. We spent time at the bottom and then hiked back up. My husband took a mule as the altitude affected him. My teenagers and I hiked up. While it is a long way up, as long as you go slowly it was fine. The path is wide with lots of switch backs. Much like Santorini, you do have to watch out for animal droppings on the path. We then had lunch at a wonderful restaurant with Juan and travelled home. Overall, an outstanding tour!
Response from the operator: Excellent
via Tripadvisor
This tour was absolutely incredible...
<p>This tour was absolutely incredible! The drive was long to Quilotoa from Quito but the bus was great and we made a number of amazing stops along the way! We stopped for some gifts, food, beautiful sites and met some amazing people who live in the mountains. Jorge was our tour guide and he was knowledgeable and fun! The lake was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen in my life. The hike down was tough but really fun, and riding horses up was amazing. If you go to ecuador this is a must do!</p>
Response from the operator: Excellent
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $40 to $289
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 64
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Quito.
How much does Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop cost?
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Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Quito usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Quito is not rushed.
Is Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 4 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Quito, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Quito can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Quito and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Quito within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
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On Outty we rank every Quito experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Cotopaxi Volcano full day tour with all the entrances, every day, Cotopaxi tour from Quito -horseback ride and hike-NO TOURISTY way, Baños Full Day Tour from Quito Including Entrances and Activities. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Quito?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Quito?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop?
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Included: Entrance fees; Bottle of purified water; and Professional bilingual Guide. Not included: Food and drinks; Tips; and Mule rental for return from the crater (optional). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 121 listed pickup locations in and around Quito. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Quito. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop?
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Across 4 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Private Tour Quilotoa and Tigua Painting Workshop?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Family and Friends, Mini Group, Grand Expedition. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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