Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
cal market on Saturdays. From the village plaza, cross the bridge and
follow the road north to the lake, about nine miles from Zumbagua.
In
Saquisilí
, just south of the town of Guaytacama, a fewmiles west
of the Pan-American Highway, market day is Thursday. It is one of
the most incredible local markets in Ecuador, and one of the more im-
portant ones. Native people fill the streets, the plazas, and every nook
and cranny. Wandering ponchos and narrow-brimmed felt hats,
fruits, meats, vegetables and goods of every size, shape, color, smell,
and sound overwhelm the senses. In fact, if you are not used to travel-
ing in similar countries, it may take quite a bit to stomach some of
what you will witness.
Indian Markets
For a native treat, stop at the villages of
Saquisilí
and
Pujilí
on market day. Visiting them in conjunction with
Lake Quilotoa is a great excursion away from the main
travelers' route. Located a bit off the beaten Pan-American
path, these authentic Amerindian markets are well worth
the visit. They cater to locals and are the focal point of vil-
lage life. Don't expect to find much in the way of tourist-
oriented arts and crafts, although even here the renowned
Otavaleños from the north now cater a bit to the foreign
traveler. For the most part, what you will find is anything
related to daily necessities, as well as a beautiful indige-
nous culture, rich in color and tradition.
Hotels in the Latacunga area fill to capacity on
Wednesdays, Thursdays and, to a lesser extent,
Saturdays as a result of thesemarkets. Be sure to
make reservations in advance.
The entire loop starting on the Pan-American Highway and going
through Saquisilí, Toacazo, Sigchos, Chugchilán, Laguna Quilotoa,
Zumbahua, Tigua, and Pujilí (or in reverse order) is less than 60
miles, but it takes over six hours of driving time because of rough
roads winding through spectacular scenery. In addition to Pujillí and
Saquisillí, you can spend literally days exploring this region, com-
plete with beautiful countryside, small indigenous villages and ad-
ventures galore. Pick up a goodmap. There are many ways to connect
the dots by bus or car, foot, horseback or bike. Whichever way you go,
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