HEARTLAND ECUADOR
(3 Days, Your choice of day from Quito)
On the Heartland Ecuador tour you will have the opportunity to experience Ecuador’s most authentic region. Indigenous markets, such as in Zumbahua and Pujili, the Crater Lagoon of Quilotoa and an unforgettable trek through the highlands down to Chugchilan make this program an ideal extension to any of our Avenue of Volcano trips. If you planned for some extra days you will not want to miss this opportunity.
Day 1, Quito-Cotopaxi:
After an early morning breakfast we will depart heading south towards Cotopaxi National Park. On the way we will pass by different villages such as Sangolquí, Aloag and Machachi. Continuing south on the Pan-American highway to the city of Ambato, along the way we will visit the town of Latacunga and its authentic indigenous market (Tuesdays and Saturdays only).
Almost midday we will arrive in the National Park, which is located 59.54km away from the city of Quito. The Cotopaxi Volcano is one of the most important landmarks in Ecuador because it is the highest active volcano in the world. Lush 
endemic flora and fauna of the area can be observed, including: one of the most representative species is the Chuquiragua (also known as the mountaineer’s flower) wild horses, deers, llamas, and more. While there, you can visit Limpiopungo Lake, located near Rumiñahui volcano (149.96 meters), or go hiking to observe the birds. We can also visit the ruins of Incas del Pucara de Salitre, set on Cotopaxi’s mountainside.
Lunch at a local lodge is optional, before we continue toward the village of Lasso. Here we will arrive at a lodging house built in 1580 into the side of Cotopaxi named La Cienega, one of the biggest and first haciendas of the colony. You will have an opportunity for dinner and lodging at La Cienega, or a similar location.
Day 2, Cotopaxi-Quilotoa-Chugchilan:
We will have breakfast before our departure heading west into the heartlands of Ecuador. We will take a route called Pujilí’s Way, passing through Quilotoa, stopping at Pujili’s Market (only Wednesdays and Sundays), the little village of Tigua with its artesian paintings and finally, the colorful market of Zumbahua (only Saturdays). This route has some of the most spectacular landscapes of Ecuador.
Arriving at Quilotoa’s crater we will get a chance to visit the 
green-blue colored lake inside. Attendees will be allowed to walk down to the lake border and return up again by mule.
Lunch is optional before continuing to Chugchilan. Dinner is also optional and accommodation will be set up for the evening.
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Day 3, Chugchilan-Quito:
Return to Quito.
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