In the morning, you'll have a private transfer from your Quito hotel (pre-night required) to Cotopaxi. Your first stop will be Cotopaxi National Park where, weather permitting, you will be able to see the snow-capped summits of the Cotopaxi and Antisana volcanoes. We'll also visit the Interpretation Center to learn about the history of this spectacular volcano's major eruptions, as well as the local flora and fauna. Then we make our way to Lake Limpiopungo and explore the surrounding area on foot. If you are inclined for a longer walk, an optional 2-hour hike will take us to Mt. Cotopaxi's J. Ribas refuge (4,800 m) where you will be able to enjoy spectacular views of the volcano and the surrounding Andean peaks. Along the way, we'll stop for lunch. Later, enjoy a bike ride through exclusive trails designed by mountain bikers and engineers on a fantastic journey through the heart of the Andes. You will be escorted by mountain biking guides and pampered by our traditional hospitality during the whole trip. After your adventurous day, you'll be taken to your hotel.

(Dinner & Accommodations, Cotopaxi)

Today we will visit the Quilotoa volcano crater, and our first stop is to admire the crater's serenely mysterious green lake. When the Quilotoa volcano last erupted in 1280, it left behind a gaping caldera 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) across, which is now filled with brilliant turquoise water. We'll have the option of a short walk of about 1.7 km along the crater's rim. On the way back, we'll stop to visit some of the art galleries in the community of Tigua, viewing paintings representative of the folklore of this special part of the Andes. The brightly colored style of the area's painters, currently the third generation, has transcended local boundaries and is now internationally renowned. These days there are many artists in Tigua, but Julio Toaquiza was the first to gain recognition, and is still considered one of Ecuador's finest. We will visit Julio in his studio, and you'll quickly notice his use of bright colors, and how his paintings vividly describe life in the high Andes; the volcanoes, the condors, and the indigenous communities. After our tour, we'll return to your hotel and the remainder of the day is at your leisure.

(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Accommodations, Cotopaxi)

After breakfast, we'll travel to a traditional indigenous marketplace in the Cotopaxi area. Local markets are part of Ecuadorian traditional culture; the places where indigenous communities buy food and accessories as well as socialize.

Later, we will visit the plantation of a world class rose producer. Ecuadorian roses are recognized as being some of the finest, and are exported to all parts of the globe. On the farm, the company produces unique, beautiful, multi colored roses for the most discerning customers. Our guide will show us the process of producing high quality roses and explain the research that has gone into producing the flowers' spectacular colors. Many products based on this beautiful blossom, which will be available for your enjoyment, such as rose honey, rose sea salt, rose vinegar, rose chocolate, rose marmalade and many others. After the tour, you'll have a private transfer to Quito.

(Breakfast & Lunch, Cotopaxi)