NEW: Saquisilí Market and Cotopaxi National Park

Day 1: Two hours South of Quito sits the town of Saquisilí with one of the most colorful and complete Indian markets in Ecuador. The whole town is a market on this day and one can walk around, shopping for handicrafts of all kinds. Especially attractive is the animal market. Lunch served at La Cienega, a 300-year-old restored hacienda, now a beautiful country inn. After lunch explore the gardens of the hacienda, or stroll along the country lanes. Overnight at La Cienega.

Day 2: We visit 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). (B)

PM return to Quito.

This Saquisili & Cotopaxi tour can be operated on Thursday/Friday switching the order of places visited.

• Location:Combined Cultural and Nature Tours, Market Tours
• Duration:2 days / 1 night – Only starts on Wednesdays or Thursdays
• Start / End:Quito / Quito
• Activities:Visit a market, shopping, photography, stroll through an old hacienda, walking / hiking, nature viewing
• Highlights:Animal market at Saquisili, lunch at 300 year old hacienda, Cotopaxi National Park
• Included:Bilingual guide, all activities in itinerary, accommodation, meals mentioned in itinerary
• Not Included:Entrance fees to museums, churches, etc, tips, personal expenses, meals not mentioned
• Prices:Please contact us for pricing.