Follow the Humbolt Avenue of the volcanoes south of Quito to Ambato, famous for its fruit and flower market. Lunch at Rumipamba de las Rosas and stop at Sangolqui to visit the jewelry and metal workshop. Return to Quito mid-afternoon.

Travel through the Avenue of Volcanoes to Latacunga. The variety of regional products sold on the plazas and the colorful costumes make this a great photo opportunity. Lunch at a local hacienda before returning to Quito.

This little town is the least touristy of the Indian Markets and therefore, the best for authenticity. It offers a little of everything including a live animal market selling everything from llamas and alpacas. Lunch at La Cienega returning to Quito around 5:00pm.

Located north of Quito in the Imbaburra province (known for its beautiful lakes), this region is the most interesting from a visitor’s standpoint and worthy of a night or two if you have the time. The people are masters of different crafts, wood carvings, weavings and leather goods. Different tribes of Indians inhabit the region and are a very proud and prosperous people. Many still wear traditional dress and their culture has changed little since earlier times. Visit the lively animal market and the main square with its rows of stalls of handicrafts. Lunch at Cotocachi, known for its leather goods and San Antonio de Ibarra, famous for its wood carvings. Groups may also visit Cuicohca Crater Lake to hike along the rim and perhaps spot the Andean Condor.

Spend the night in a charming local hacienda on Friday night so you may hit the market early on Saturday morning. On Friday, you`ll head north out of Quito stopping in Calderon to see the hand-made bread dough figurines, then continue to Guayllabamba Valley, famous for its orchards. You`ll stop at Indian villages to observe everyday life and visit private handicraft workshops. Early Saturday, explore the markets with late afternoon return to Quito.