Quilotoa is a water-filled caldera and the most  western volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes. The 3 kilometres (2 mi)-wide  caldera was formed by the collapse of this dacite volcano following a  catastrophic VEI-6 eruption about 800 years ago, which produced  pyroclastic flows and lahars that reached the Pacific Ocean, and spread  an airborne deposit of volcanic ash throughout the northern Andes. This  last eruption followed a dormancy period of 14,000 years and is known as  the 1280 Plinian eruption.

This full day cultural tour begins with a visit to local indigenous  market at either Saquisilli (Thursdays only) or Pujili (Sundays only).   The drive to Laguna Quilotoa – an amazing emerald lagoon inside a  volcano crater at the height of approximatetly 3,800 m – displays a  beautiful view of the Andean mountains, passing the ancient canyon of  Zumbahua and many indigenous towns and farmlands.  The trip through the  villages of the area provide a fantastic chance to see one of the most  authentic parts of the country. Before lunch we visit a local indigenous  home where you have the opportunity to interact with the locals.