Zumbahua

Altitude: 3,688 meters (12,100 ft) Phone Code: 03

Located along the loop, about halfway between tiny Tigua and the Quilotoa crater, lies the sleepy town of Zumbahua. Sitting low and surrounded by mountain peaks and quilted hills, the town seems as if it has sprung up out of nowhere. Though you may be the only tourist around on any given weekday, the area is pleasant, with great hiking and stunning views, though the town itself offers very little to do.

On Saturdays Zumbahua springs to life, as locals from surrounding villages stream in with goods and livestock to sell at one of the most colorful and authentic markets in the area. The real highlight is watching the town transform early in the morning, as traditionally dressed families come parading by with llamas or goats. Though you probably won’t find too much interesting stuff to buy while you’re there, it’s a lively scene and a photographer’s delight.

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Other places nearby Zumbahua: Quilotoa, Chugchilán, Sigchos, Saquisilí, Pujili, Tigua and Isinliví.