On this adventure we start the day driving for three hours to the heart of the Andes along what is known as the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Our visit takes us to Quilotoa, the highlight of the Ilinizas Ecological reserve. Tucked in between rolling mountains of greens and golds, lies this beautiful turquoise crater lake—a real gem. We will hike for an hour down into the crater. At the bottom there is the option to rent a kayak to go paddling into the center of the lake and take in jaw-dropping 360 degree views from another perspective. After taking time to enjoy this masterpiece of mother nature we will hike back up the trail to the edge of the crater. There is also the option to hire a mule or horse to take you back up. Once at the top we will have lunch and then visit the local handicrafts and paintings market before returning to Quito.