LAGUNA QUILOTOA

LA LAGUNA DE QUILOTOA 

Bumping along the espectacular dirt roads of the Quilotoa Loop and hiking between the area's Andean villages is one Ecuador´s most exhilarating adventures. Transportation is tricky but the rewards are abundant;highland markets, the breathtaking crater lake of Laguna Quilotoa, splendid hikes and traditional highland villages. Allow yourself at least three days for the loop and bring warm clothes (it gets painfully cold up here), water and snacks. If you're planning a multiday hike through the area, do yourself a favor and leave your heavy backpack in a guesthouse in Latacunga (carrying only the essentials).

LATACUNGA

LATACUNGA 

The drive from Quito to Latacunga is magnificent in clear weather, Like a mammoth ice-cream cone. Cotopaxi looms to the left of the Panamericana as you travel south, and the two Ilinizas, also snowcapped, are on your rigth, Several other peaks are visible during the 90km drive, includind distant Chimborazo if you are lucky. On exceptionally clear days, nine of Ecuador´s 10 highest peaks can be seen.

Latacunga is the capital of Cotopaxi Province. Although not an exicting town, it has an interesting history and is a good base for several excellent excursions. The town´s name originates from the Indian words llacta cunari, which translate rather charmingly into "land of my choise." Latacunga became important colonial center immediately after the conquest, but today, there is little evidence of its long and varied history.

Cotopaxi, which dominates the town on a clear day, erupted violently in 1742 and destroyed the town, which was rebuilt, Another eruption 26 years later wiped it out again, but the indomitable (or foolhardy) survivors rebuilt it a second time. An Immense eruption i 1877 destroyed it a third time, and yet again it was rebuilt on the same site. At present, the volcano´s activity is minor, and it is unilikely that an eruption will occur within the next several years.