Quito is the perfect base for exploring Ecuador’s incredible landscapes, markets, and adventure spots. Whether you’re into hiking, culture, or relaxation, there are plenty of day trips from Quito that let you experience the best of the country in just one day. Here’s a guide to six must-visit destinations, plus tips on how to get there.
1. Mindo: Cloud Forest Adventure
A Mindo day trip from Quito is perfect for nature lovers looking to experience Ecuador’s incredible biodiversity in just one day. This lush cloud forest is home to hundreds of bird species, scenic waterfalls, and some of the best chocolate in the country.
While we could have spent days here—hiking muddy trails, spotting colorful toucans, and enjoying the company of the town’s friendly street dogs—Mindo is still well worth visiting even if you only have a day. Mornings are best spent trekking through the forest in search of waterfalls and wildlife, while afternoons are perfect for indulging in world-class Ecuadorian chocolate as you watch the misty rain roll in (which, despite what the guidebooks say, happens daily).
Although we believe Mindo deserves more than just a quick visit, it’s absolutely possible to experience its highlights in a day. With careful planning or an organized tour, you can tick off the must-see spots, making for an unforgettable escape from Quito.
Highlights:
- Birdwatching (over 400 species)
- Waterfall hikes
- Chocolate tours
- Zip-lining through the forest
How to Get There:
To get to Mindo, head to Terminal La Ofelia, which you can reach by taxi from central Quito ($7-$10). Look for the ticket office for Flore de Valle, the only bus company that services the Quito-Mindo route.
The first bus departs at 8 AM, followed by departures at 9 AM, 11 AM, and 4 PM. If you’re doing a Mindo day trip from Quito, it’s best to catch the 8 AM bus to maximize your time. The journey takes approximately two hours (depending on traffic) and costs $4 per person. Buses drop passengers off in central Mindo, making it easy to start exploring right away.
If traveling independently, have a clear plan for your visit to make the most of your time. The last bus back to Quito leaves around 5 PM, but schedules can vary, so confirm departure times upon arrival and take a photo of the schedule.
For a more flexible but pricier alternative, consider booking private transport through services like Bookaway. This is a good option if traveling in a group or if you prefer a more convenient, direct journey.
Tour Option:
For a hassle-free experience, book a guided tour that includes transport, hiking, and a chocolate tasting. While Mindo day trips from Quito are easy to do independently, an organized tour ensures you make the most of your visit without the hassle of planning logistics. Tours often include entry to popular attractions and a set itinerary, so you don’t waste time figuring things out on arrival.
A highly-rated full-day tour typically includes a visit to Mindo’s famous hummingbird garden, where you can see dozens of species up close. You’ll also take a guided walk through the cloud forest, learning about the region’s diverse flora and fauna from an expert. For those seeking a bit more adventure, many tours offer optional activities like zip-lining through the treetops or rappelling down waterfalls (additional cost may apply).
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider a tour that covers transportation and a basic itinerary but allows you to choose and pay for activities separately. This gives you the flexibility to customize your day while still benefiting from the convenience of an organized trip.
2. Otavalo: Ecuador’s Famous Market
Otavalo is home to South America’s largest indigenous market, making it one of the best day trips from Quito, Ecuador for shopping and culture. Located about two hours north of Quito, this traditional market town is a must-visit, especially on a Saturday, when the market expands to take over much of the town. Here, you’ll find beautifully handcrafted textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and other authentic Ecuadorian souvenirs—perfect for those looking to bring home something special.
While the market is the main attraction, Otavalo offers much more than just shopping. You can visit Condor Park, a rescue center where you can see Andean condors up close, or take a 40-minute walk to Peguche Waterfall, a sacred site for the local Kichwa people. For those interested in Ecuador’s rich textile heritage, the Museo Fabrica Imbabura provides insight into traditional weaving and dress.
Although we recommend spending a few days in Otavalo to fully soak in its culture and natural beauty, a well-planned day trip still gives you a fantastic glimpse into this vibrant Andean town.
Highlights:
- Handwoven textiles and crafts
- Peguche Waterfall
- Condor Park
- Traditional Andean music workshops
How to Get There:
To get to Otavalo, first, make your way to Terminal Carcelén in northern Quito. You can take a taxi or Uber ($5-$8 USD) for a quick and easy ride, or opt for the budget-friendly C5 trolébus ($0.35 USD)—just be aware that heavy traffic can make the journey much longer.
At the terminal, look for a booth with a sign for Otavalo and purchase your ticket. Buses leave regularly throughout the day and cost $2.50-$3 per person, plus a $0.20 terminal fee. The journey takes approximately two hours, and you’ll be dropped off at the Otavalo bus station, just a short walk from the famous market.
The best day to visit is Saturday, when the market is at its biggest and most vibrant, offering the widest selection of handcrafted goods, textiles, and traditional Andean souvenirs.
Tour Option:
For a deeper cultural experience, take a tour that goes beyond Otavalo’s famous market and includes stops at Cotacachi, Cuicocha Lake, and indigenous artisan workshops. Cotacachi is well-known for its high-quality leather goods, making it a great place to browse handmade bags, belts, and jackets crafted by local artisans.
Nearby, Cuicocha Lake, a stunning crater lake inside an extinct volcano, offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to learn about its significance to indigenous Kichwa communities. Many tours also visit Cascada de Peguche, a sacred waterfall where locals perform traditional rituals.
For those interested in Ecuador’s rich artisanal heritage, some tours include visits to weaving ateliers and indigenous instrument workshops, where you can see skilled artisans at work. Others even combine Otavalo with stops in Cayambe (famous for its biscochos, a traditional Ecuadorian pastry) or San Pablo Del Lago, a picturesque lake surrounded by Andean peaks.
While Otavalo is easy to visit independently, a guided tour allows you to explore more of the region without worrying about transportation, ensuring you experience the best of Ecuadorian culture and craftsmanship in a single day.
3. Mitad del Mundo: Stand on the Equator
No visit to Quito is complete without stopping at Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand on the equator and take part in quirky science experiments. Located just 22 km north of Quito, this attraction is one of the most popular Quito day trips, drawing both locals and tourists eager to straddle the Northern and Southern Hemispheres at the same time.
Although modern GPS technology has revealed that the monument marking the equator is actually about 300 meters off, the site remains a fascinating and fun place to visit. Visitors can try unique experiments, like balancing an egg on a nail or watching water drain in opposite directions on either side of the equatorial line.
Unlike many other day trips from Quito, Mitad del Mundo is quick and easy to visit, making it a great option if you’re short on time. The entrance fee is $5 for adults and $2.50 for children, which includes access to museums and exhibits explaining Ecuador’s connection to the equator. The park is open 9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays and until 6 PM on weekends.
Whether you go for the science, the Instagram-worthy photo ops, or just to check it off your Ecuador bucket list, Mitad del Mundo is a fun and educational stop that’s worth the short trip from Quito.
Highlights:
- Equator line monument
- Intiñan Museum (actual GPS-confirmed equator)
- Balancing an egg on a nail experiment
How to Get There:
To visit Mitad del Mundo independently, take a bus to Terminal Ofelia ($0.35), then transfer to the clearly marked Mitad del Mundo bus ($0.25). The second leg of the journey takes about one hour each way, but buses can get very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.
Although the site isn’t far from central Quito, traffic—both heading to Terminal Ofelia and then out to Mitad del Mundo—can turn a short trip into an all-day excursion. If you prefer a faster and more comfortable option, consider taking a taxi or Uber instead. A one-way trip costs $15-$20, which is reasonable if you’re traveling in a group.
Tour Option:
For a more in-depth experience, consider a guided tour that includes Mitad del Mundo along with other nearby attractions like Pululahua Crater—one of the world’s only inhabited volcanic craters—or a local chocolate factory, where you can learn about Ecuador’s famous cacao.
While tours provide insightful commentary and take care of logistics, they can be pricey for what’s included. If you’re comfortable navigating on your own and speak some Spanish, visiting independently is a more budget-friendly option that still allows you to explore at your own pace.
4. Quilotoa Lake: Stunning Crater Views
If you’re up for a more adventurous Quito day trip, Quilotoa’s breathtaking crater lake is a must-see. While hiking the full Quilotoa Loop is one of the best multi-day treks in Ecuador, not everyone has the time or desire to commit to a four- or five-day trek. Luckily, you can still experience the lake’s stunning deep-blue waters, kayak across its 3-km-wide lagoon, and get a glimpse of traditional Andean village life—all in a single day trip from Quito.
Highlights:
- Stunning turquoise lake inside a volcanic crater
- Kayaking on the lake
- Hiking along the crater rim
How to Get There:
Visiting Quilotoa independently is possible but requires an early start, multiple transport connections, and a long day of travel.
To get there, take a bus from Terminal Quitumbe to Latacunga ($3-$5, approx. 2 hours). Several companies operate this route, including Cooperative Latacunga, Expreso Bolivariano, and Ciro Cotopaxi, with frequent departures. Once in Latacunga, you’ll need to walk 8 blocks or take a short taxi ride ($1.50) to the center, where you can catch a bus to Quilotoa.
There are two bus options from Latacunga: a direct bus to Quilotoa ($4-$5, about 2 hours) or a more frequent bus to Zumbahua, followed by a shared taxi ($5-$8 per car) for the final stretch. For the return journey, hiring a private taxi from Quilotoa to Latacunga can save time.
If you’re comfortable driving in Ecuador, renting a car is another option. However, given the multiple connections and travel time, booking a guided tour is highly recommended for a smoother and more efficient day trip.
Tour Option:
Join a guided tour for a stress-free Quilotoa trip, which typically includes transportation, entrance fees, a local lunch, and optional hiking. Since there is no direct public bus from Quito to Quilotoa, taking a tour is the easiest and most efficient way to visit.
Many tour companies operate day trips to Quilotoa, especially from Quito’s Old Town, but if you prefer to book in advance, highly rated small-group tours are available. These tours provide plenty of free time to explore the crater lake, hike along the rim, or even kayak in the lagoon.
While some tours combine Quilotoa with other destinations like Cotopaxi, we recommend choosing a dedicated Quilotoa tour so you have ample time to take in the stunning views and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
5. Cotopaxi National Park: Hike an Active Volcano
At 5,897 meters, Volcán Cotopaxi is the second-highest peak in Ecuador (after Chimborazo) and one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. This stunning volcano offers incredible opportunities for high-altitude hiking, mountain biking, and even technical mountaineering.
After being closed for several years due to volcanic activity, Cotopaxi is now open to the public, making it an unforgettable Quito trip for hikers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re trekking up to the glacier, cycling down its rugged slopes, or simply taking in the dramatic views, a visit to Cotopaxi is a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights:
- Hike to the glacier at 5,000m
- Bike down volcanic slopes
- Spot wild horses and condors
How to Get There:
Public buses from Terminal Quitumbe can take you near Cotopaxi National Park, but you’ll need additional transport to reach the main hiking areas. Take a bus toward Latacunga and ask the driver to drop you off at Control Caspi, the junction for the park entrance. However, this spot is still quite far from the main trails, so you’ll need to hitchhike (more feasible on weekends) or hire a taxi-truck.
Taxis from the entrance typically charge $25 per person round trip, though it’s worth negotiating. They will take you to the park control point for registration and then continue up to the car park, where the hike to the refuge and glacier begins. Some drivers also rent bikes ($10 each), allowing you to cycle part of the way back before they pick you up for the return journey.
Alternatively, if you’re traveling in a group, hiring a taxi from Quito may be a more convenient option. Expect to pay $50-$70 USD round trip, depending on your negotiation skills. While there used to be a shuttle bus service from Quito to Cotopaxi, it’s currently unavailable—but worth checking if it returns.
Tour Option:
A guided tour to Cotopaxi is a fantastic option for a full-day adventure, especially if you want a stress-free experience with transportation, hiking, and biking all included. While it’s possible to visit independently, we chose to go with a tour—mainly because we wanted to bike down the volcano, an exhilarating ride that wasn’t easily arranged with local taxi drivers at the time.
Many tours offer a combination of activities, including a hike up to the refuge, stunning views of the glacier, and a thrilling downhill bike ride through Cotopaxi’s rugged terrain. Some tours also include lunch and entrance fees, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.
If biking isn’t your thing, there are also highly-rated full-day tours that focus more on hiking and exploring the park’s unique flora and fauna. The best tour prices can often be found on the ground in Quito, but if you prefer to book in advance, there are excellent options that ensure you get the most out of your Cotopaxi experience.
6. Papallacta Hot Springs: Relax in the Andes
For those wanting a more relaxing Quito day trip, Papallacta’s thermal pools provide the perfect escape. Located 40 miles east of Quito in the Andean highlands, these natural hot springs are a great way to unwind while soaking in mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning mountain views.
The hot springs are part of Termas Papallacta Resort, which offers two options: a large public thermal bath ($10.50 per adult, $5.35 for children, open 6 AM – 9 PM) or a more exclusive private area ($24 per person) with access to jacuzzis, private pools, and spa treatments. If you’re looking for extra relaxation, you can also indulge in massages, hydrotherapy, and other wellness treatments available at the resort.
For those who want to extend their stay, Termas Papallacta offers overnight accommodations, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and warm pools under the stars. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape from Quito or a full day of relaxation, Papallacta is the perfect destination to recharge and enjoy Ecuador’s natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Natural hot springs with mountain views
- Spa treatments available
- Nearby hiking trails
How to Get There:
To get to Papallacta, take a direct bus from Terminal Quitumbe in southern Quito. Buses depart every 30 minutes, cost around $3, and continue to Baeza, Tena, or Puyo, so be sure to let the driver know you’re getting off at “Las Termas”. Although Papallacta is only 40 km from Quito, the winding mountain roads make the journey 1.5 to 2 hours long.
Once the bus drops you off at the entrance to town, you have three options to reach the hot springs:
- Taxi ($2) – The quickest and easiest way to get there.
- Walking Path (30 minutes) – A scenic route that follows the river uphill.
- Virgen de Papallacta Trail (17 km, 5-6 hours) – A challenging hike that requires careful planning.
If you prefer more flexibility, consider renting a car from Quito Airport for around $30 per day. Alternatively, a taxi or Uber from Quito costs $60-$80 round trip, which may be a good option if you’re traveling in a group.
For the return journey, simply wait on the side of the road for a bus heading back to Quito.
Tour Option:
Private tours are the most common option for visiting Papallacta, as group tours are rare. While private tours tend to be more expensive, they provide a hassle-free experience, including round-trip transport, entrance fees, and often additional stops along the way.
One highly rated private tour includes entry into the hot springs, allowing you to fully relax without worrying about logistics. If you’d like to see more in one day, another option includes a visit to Guango Lodge, a well-known birdwatching spot where you can observe hummingbirds and other Andean wildlife before heading to the hot springs.
For solo travelers or those who don’t want to deal with Ecuador’s bus system, a private tour is the most convenient way to visit Papallacta while ensuring you get the most out of your day.
Want to Explore Ecuador?
These day trips from Quito offer the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, giving you a taste of Ecuador’s incredible landscapes and traditions—all in just one day. Whether you’re hiking up a volcano, exploring indigenous markets, soaking in thermal pools, or zip-lining through the cloud forest, each destination promises a one-of-a-kind experience.
Prefer to travel independently? Many of these spots are accessible by bus with a bit of planning. Want a stress-free adventure? A guided tour takes care of the details, so you can just enjoy the journey. No matter how you choose to explore, these unforgettable Quito day trips are guaranteed to make your time in Ecuador even more special.
Ready to start your adventure? Book your expedition today!
