San Pablo lake and its guardian volcano, Taita (father) Imbabura, make up a landscape that lends itself for an unforgettable aerial adventure. These Ecuadorian jewels are located on the way from Quito to Otavalo just 87 km (54 miles) from Ecuador´s capital city. Gazing at them from the sky with the sunrise as a background is an ideal activity to start off a day filled with pure adrenaline, culture, and loads of fun.
This lake is 7.7 km (4.78 miles) wide and a 48 meters (157 ft) deep. The indigenous communities surrounding San Pablo have lived there for centuries in harmony with nature. The lake is not only sacred to their culture but also an important source of income. Travelers also can enjoy this wonder practicing water sports, sailing through its waters, or simply contemplating this idyllic landscape. Just don´t forget your jacket, and to protect you from the strong equatorial sun, you can purchase a lovely hat or cap on the nearby Otavalo market.
With Kawsay Balloons you will have an unforgettable experience from above! Are you ready to start?
Tethered ride
During a tethered ride, the hot air balloon is held to the ground by anchor ropes. This option provides you with a more controlled experience, without sacrificing the balloon flying feeling or any of the amazing views.
Elevation: 25 meters / 82 feet
Capacity: 3 people (2 adults and 1 child. 2 children can board, depending on the adults’ weight).
Ride time: 15 - 20 minutes
Time table: The first ride starts at 6:00 a.m. and the last ride starts at 7:20 am. Up to 5 tethered rides are launched per day.
Price: $89 por persona
1. RESERVE THE DATE OF YOUR RIDE
Remember that we only operate rides on SUNDAYS. Once you finish your reservation process, continue to STEP 2 (located below the calendar), to proceed with the payment. Remember to check your e-mail after completing the process for your confirmation.
2. PAY YOUR RESERVATION
Once you have finished booking your ride, the only thing left is to make the payment. Remember to check your e-mail to receive detailed information about your ride.
Hot air balloon flight
A 35-minute adventure at 100 meters (1.000 ft) high! Gaze at the majestic Imbabura volcano and the San Pablo lake from up above. Feel free, safe, and connected with nature, whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, with friends or as a family.
Capacity: 2 people (2 adults. 1 small child can board the balloon, depending on the adults’ weight)
Ride time: 25 - 35 min
Price: $325 por persona
Time table: The ride starts at 6:00 am. Only one ride a day is launched.
1. RESERVE THE DATE OF YOUR RIDE
Please, make your reservation here. Choose your ride date, and then proceed to payment, bellow the calendar. Please, check your e-mail after you’ve completed the process to confirm your reservation.
2. PAY YOUR RESERVATION
Once you have finished booking your ride, the only thing left is to make the payment. Remember to check your e-mail to receive detailed information about your ride.
Our rides include:
Complimentary toast
Traditional Ecuadorian breakfast
Flight stamp
Aerial insurance*(conditions apply)
Our rides do not include:
Transportation to take-off site at San Pablo lake
Accommodation
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Private boat ride
A 20-minute boat ride on San Pablo lake to contemplate the landscape from the water.
Capacity: 6 people
Valor: $45
Transfer Quito - San Pablo - Quito
You’ll arrive at San Pablo lake at 6:00 a.m. Return to Quito will start after all flights have concluded, between 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. Transfer fare includes transportation for up to 6 passengers for the same price, in the same van.
Capacity: 6 people
Valor: $79
Standard accommodation (double room)
A safe and comfortable lodging option to compliment your aerial experience. The hostel is located in San Pablo del Lago. Available WiiFi, parking, cable TV, hot water.
Does not include breakfast
Valor por noche: $59
Premium accommodation (double room)
A luxurious room in the best hotels in the area: Puerto Lago or Cabañas de Lago. Available WiFi, parking, cable TV, hot water, restaurant service.
Includes breakfast.
Price per night: $199
Photoshoot
Includes: 12 professional photos, 5 short videos in slow motion, and a panoramic drone video ( 3 to 5 minutes).
The best option if you are looking to surprise your partner or family!
Valor: $105
Full-day private van service (local driver included)
A van will pick you up at your lodging in Quito, Otavalo or Ibarra, to take you to our take-off place at San Pablo. The van will be at your disposal to visit other attractions in the area, until 7:00 p.m., when you will return to your lodging.
Capacity: 6 people
Valor por día: $129
Safety First
Kawsay Balloons pilots have been trained to the highest international standards and hold the current aeronautical license issued by the DAC, the Ecuadorian aeronautic authority. They meet the flight hours necessary to fly a hot air balloon.
Kawsay Balloons is certified by the Directorate of Civil Aviation of Ecuador. The registration number of the aircraft is HC-G006. The safety of our passengers and pilots is our priority: if there are no adequate flying conditions, our pilots have the final call to cancel takeoff. But don't worry, your air adventure will be rescheduled, free of additional charge!