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This morning we visited one of the colourful indigenous markets in the region. The plaza was filled with fruit, flowers, textiles, livestock and native handicrafts.
The local men - and women in particular were in their traditional dress, felt and pressed wool skirts, jackets, hats, thick stockings, ornate blouses, wool scarves, often large hooped earrings. The vibe was bustling and organised, the produce looking superb, fresh and colourful. Cornmeal was being ground directly as required, many lentils, bean, pulses. Not so keen on being photographed.
Continued to the Quilotoa Volcano, known for the spectacular views of its 3km wide caldera. The crater was formed by the collapse of the volcano following several catastrophic eruptions about 800 years ago, and the lake has since developed an emerald colour as a result of dissolved minerals over time. We walked partly around the rim of this stunningly beautiful lake, at height, so we were still noticing our shortness of breath at times. We paid a local family to use their facilities and talked a little with a grandmother and her little one.
The journey on to Riobamba took us back onto the Pan-American Highway and along the 'Avenue of Volcanoes'. We stopped at the Canon del Rio Toachi, where Sylvia and I ventured out over the canyon to get pictures, causing a ruffle from the more cautious, but we were very safe. One side of the canyon is cropped - the Ecuadorians use every bit of mountain area they can, to grow crops/animals.
Located in southern Ecuador, Riobamba lies in a valley at the foot of the imposing Chimborazo volcano and is surrounded by mountain peaks. On a clear day, it is possible to see the Tungurahua volcano to the north. Riobamba is a lively Andean trading town where many of the different ethnic groups of the Andes can be seen and where traditions such as historic music and dance are kept alive.
Accommodation: Hacienda Abraspungo for 1 night
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