NEW: Cotopaxi National Park, Zumbahua Market and Quilotoa Lake

Day 1:  Leaving Quito, drive south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes  visiting the Cotopaxi National Park, home to the world’s highest active volcano at 5897 m (19347 ft). Here we can spot  the Andean Teal, the Andean Coot, the Ecuadorian Hillstar endemic to Ecuador and the giant Andean Condor, with its 3m wingspan. Observe the low growing vegetation and typical plants of the Paramo and spectacular scenery.  Depending on weather conditions and group interests, hike up to the snow line at  approximately 5000 m (16400 ft). Overnight at Hacienda.

Day 2: Start very early in the morning going along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Reaching the city of Latacunga, we turn towards Pujilí and then up the old road to the coast. Here we see the really desolate Andean terrain with an occasional shepherd and oxen at work. Zumbahua is a typical mountain market where llamas and riding horses are traded. After the market we continue to Quilotoa. This is a volcanic crater filled by a dazzling aquamarine lake. From its rim the view of the surrounding volcanoes is breathtaking. Also, for the adventurous, the hike down the steep winding trail to the lake is really worthwhile. Picnic lunch. PM return to Quito, ending our Cotopaxi tour. (B/PL)

• Location:Combined Cultural and Nature Tours, Market Tours
• Duration:2 days / 1 night – Friday/Saturday or Saturday/Sunday
• Start / End:Quito / Quito
• Activities:Visit a market, shopping, photography, possible hike down Quilotoa Crater Lake
• Highlights:Mountain market, Cotopaxi Volcano, Quilotoa Crater Lake
• Season:All year
• Included:Bilingual guide, all activities in itinerary, accommodation, meals mentioned in itinerary
• Not Included:Entrance fees to National Parks, museums, etc, tips, personal expenses, meals not mentioned in itinerary
• Prices:Price upon request