Day 1: Quito – Peguche – Otavalo
Enjoy a beautiful drive along the Pan-American Highway. Scenic highlights include the Guayllabamba Valley, significant for its production of the chirimoya fruit & avocados, & “the land of roses,” Cayambe Valley. Discover the methods of Ecuadorian rose farming at a local planation. Afterward, explore the village of Peguche. See the handicrafts made by the local community, which include woven goods & Andean musical wind instruments. Before the day’s end, travel to the nearby town of Otavalo for an overnight stay.
Day 2: Otavalo – La Magdalena – Quito
In the morning, visit the community of La Magdalena, home to the indigenous Andean people, the Karanki. This community is known for the production of colorful hand-embroidered goods & sustainable farming. Learn about traditional agricultural techniques, & see a demonstration on planting crops, which features the use of oxen. Enjoy a traditional meal prepared by community members before returning to Quito.