The Indian market of Saquisili is less well known than the large market of Otavalo, but this makes it more traditional. This market is used mainly by Ecuadorians from the local area and therefore offers an ideal opportunity to see the Ecuadorian culture in all its diversity. One particular highlight of this market is the animal market, in which one can purchase anything from a pig to a lama.

22 kilometers to the North of Quito is the Equator. The central focus is a 30 metre high monument with an ethnographic museum, which explains and illustrates the different Indian cultures of Ecuador. Fascinating also are some astonishing physical experiments which only work out exactly at the Equator.
Immediately after the visit to the Equator, you will visit the close-by Inca ruins of Rumicucho. These ruins are one of the few places in the country where one can find and experience well-kept remains of the culture of the Inca Empire.

The hot springs of Papallacta are a 2.5 hour drive away from Quito in a wonderful Andean valley. Even the valley is 3300m above sea level! You can relax in various pools, which are directly fed with water of volcanic origin and enjoy the magnificent views.This weekend trip from Friday to Sunday afternoon takes you to the picturesque village of Baños.

Surrounded by the beautiful Andes, at the foot of the 5000 metre high volcano Tungurahua, the village offers a wide range of sporting and entertainment opportunities. On horseback you can discover the surrounding mountains, or during a bike tour you can take a refreshing bath at one of the many waterfalls.

Nationalpark Cotopaxi

The National Park stretches round the 5700 metre high peak of the Cotopaxi volcano and is home to a very rich diversity of animal and plant species. At 4800 metre, just below the snow-capped summit lies a mountain station to which most hikers go. The views from there are incredible. For the few "cliff-hangers" there is the option of climbing right to the top.