Take the PanAmerican highway south of Quito along the Valley of the Volcanos to Latacunga. You'll see Cotopaxi, the second highest Ecuadorian mountain, and the two Illinizas (north and south), fertile valley, farms and many small villages where life goes on much the same as it did years ago.
Be in Latacunga for the Thursday market in the village of Saquisilí, considered to be the most important village market. The village of Pujilí has a Sunday market as does the village of Zumbagua. For either, get there ahead of time if you plan to stay locally. You might be able to camp near Laguna Quillotoa, a scenic volcanic lake. Take your own water. The lake is alkaline.
You shouldn't miss the Parque Nacional Cotopaxi, Ecuador's most visited national park. You can visit the small museum, hike, climb, camp or picnic for small fees. Or you can do no more than gaze in awe at the mountain.
Going further south, you'll travel to Ambato, now restored and modern after a devastating earthquake in the late 1940's. If you're there in late February, you might enjoy the Flower Festival or the Monday market at any time of year. Ambato is called the "Garden of Ecuador" and the "City of Fruits and Flowers" due to the abundance of products grown in and around the city. You can visit the home of Juan Montalvo, Ecuador’s most important writer, which is now a museum and library.
From Ambato, you'll visit Chimborazo, the tallest volcano in Ecuador, and then go on to Baños, the gateway to the Amazon Basin, a hiking and climbing center, and the site of natural hot springs. The spas, pleasant weather and recreational opportunities make this area popular with both Ecuadorians and tourists. It is a busy place, with people traveling to the Oriente , the Amazon basin and forests. You can arrange jungle trips from here, or stay in town to learn Spanish at one of the language schools.
There is lots to do in Baños. It's located in a beautiful setting that encourages you to enjoy the mild climate and the outdoors. The best known thermal bath is the Piscina de la Virgen by the waterfall. Piscina El Salado offers pools with varying temperatures so you can choose the one most comfortable for you. Tour the Museum and Sanctuary of the Virgen de Agua Santa.
Stay in Baños to hike and trek. There are plenty of hills to try, plus Tungurahua volcano, part of Parque Nacional Sangay offers climbing for various levels of expertise. Also in the park is El Altar, the extinct volcano which offers a challenge to climbers. Backpackers enjoy the high plains called páramos.
You can rent mountain bikes and horses for another way of getting around. You can also enjoy rafting, half-day trips on the Río Patate and full day trips on Río Pastaza. Two waterfalls along the Pastaza river are the Agoyan Cascade and the Ines Maria Cascade, both popular with visitors.
Enjoy your trip!
