Ilaló Sky House makes a natural base for exploring the Ecuadorian Andes. Our team shapes each day around your interests, whether that means an active excursion into the mountains, a cultural day in Quito, or a slower morning on the terraces before heading out later in the day.
Beyond these suggested experiences, we can also arrange more specialised cultural visits and private encounters shaped around individual interests, from curator-led museum visits and traditional weaving workshops to more tailored culinary, wellness or expert-led experiences.
Experiences Available
Quito’s Historic Center: Quito’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved colonial cities in the Americas. Our team can arrange a privately guided day through the old city, taking in its churches, plazas, markets and viewpoints at your own pace. Transfer time from the house is approximately 40–60 minutes.
Cotopaxi National Park: One of Ecuador’s most iconic landscapes, Cotopaxi is home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. A full-day excursion from Ilaló Sky House takes in the páramo highlands, sweeping views of the volcano and opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Transfer time approximately 90–120 minutes.
Papallacta Hot Springs: A short journey east of Quito, Papallacta sits at high altitude in the Andes cloud forest and is home to natural thermal pools fed by volcanic springs. A perfect day for rest and recovery — particularly well suited to an arrival day or wind-down time before Galápagos. Transfer time approximately 70–90 minutes.
Otavalo Market & Region: One of the most celebrated indigenous markets in South America, the Otavalo Saturday market is a vivid and colourful experience. The wider region also offers weaving workshops, crater lakes and a scenic Andean landscape. Transfer time approximately 90–120 minutes.
Mindo Cloud Forest: A world-renowned birdwatching destination, Mindo is also known for its waterfalls, chocolate farms and lush cloud forest walking trails. An excellent full-day excursion for nature lovers. Transfer time approximately 120–160 minutes.
Cooking Experience: For a more intimate day centered around food, our team can arrange a cooking class drawing on Ecuadorian culinary traditions. The class is held onsite, at Ilaló Sky House, and is led by a specialist and tailored to the group.
Note: Excursions require advance notice to coordinate. Please let us know your interests at the time of booking.