Itinerary (2 Days, 1 Night)
Day 1. Quito – Cotopaxi – Baños: Departing south from Quito via the “Avenue of Volcanoes,” we continue to the indigenous village of Salasaca, where weavers are well known for their tapestries. Before arriving to Baños, we pass over the Pastaza Canyon and admire its impressive scenery. Optional lunch. In the afternoon we will visit the surroundings of Baños and El Pailon del Diablo; a beautiful waterfall where we can have a chance to walk through the cloud forest. Accommodations at a local hotel.
Day 2. Baños – Quito: Return to Quito by a different route. From Baños back to Pelileo and on to Pillaro along dirt and cobblestone roads. Traveling through the Patate Valley, one of the prettiest warm valleys of the Inter – Andean region, we come to the Pan – American highway around Ambato. Optional lunch en-route. Afternoon arrival to Quito.
B
Highlights
Avenue of the Volcanoes This 325km long valley compromises 11 snow peaks nestled in the Andean landscape. The massive volcanoes provide brooding, snow-covered contrast to the green equatorial lushness.
Baños Nestled between the Pastaza Canyon and the Tungurahua Volcano, it is the playground for activity and but also a place of relaxation. There are hot springs, great cafes, a beautiful town square and lines of little stores where the locals weave melocha (toffee) on the sidewalk.
Pastaza Valley and Patate Valley Beautiful valleys next to the Tungurahua Volcano that offers breathtaking views and conceals El Pailón del Diablo; a large hidden waterfall that one encounters after taking the cable car across the canyon and then a 30min downhill hike.
Salasacan Weavers For centuries the Salasacan weavers have been turning wool into clothing, but the tapestry is a relative new endeavour. Sometime in the last 50 or 60 years they discovered the potential for sales of more colorful woven items such as the very popular wall hangings that in recent years have garnered international acclaim for quality and beauty.
Details
Meet / Depart
Hotel of your choice, Quito, Ecuador.
Includes
Transportation
English Speaking Guide
1 night at local hotel in chosen category in Baños
Pailón del Diablo entrance fee
Meals as listed in itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Not Included
Meals not listed
Entrance to hot spring
Personal expenses
Anything not specified
Activity Level
Easy
