Saquisilí

Saquisilí is a quintessential highlands town in the Cotopaxi province, renowned across South America for its magnificent, sprawling Thursday market. Unlike tourist-focused markets elsewhere, Saquisilí remains deeply authentic. Every Thursday morning, the town transforms as indigenous people from remote mountain villages descend into the valley to trade goods, livestock, and produce. Visitors come specifically to experience this explosion of culture, color, and commerce across several different town plazas. The market is divided into specialized sections: one plaza is dedicated exclusively to animal trading, another to colorful textiles, and others to fresh Andean produce, grains, and household items. Walking through the market, you can sample incredible street food, including hornado (slow-roasted pork), fresh empanadas, and tropical fruit juices. Beyond the market, the town has a quiet glimpse into rural Andean life. Reaching Saquisilí is very straightforward, as it is located just a short 20-minute bus ride from Latacunga or roughly two hours from Quito. The weather is typical of the Andes, warm when the sun is out, but significantly colder in the shade and early mornings. The absolute best day to visit is Thursday; arriving early (around 7 AM) is highly recommended to see the bustling animal market before it concludes.

Nearby cities

Quito

The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.

Cayambe

An agricultural city at the foot of the mighty Cayambe volcano, known for its flowers and cheeses.

Archidona

Archidona is a historic colonial town in the Amazon, surrounded by spectacular stalactite caves and rich Kichwa culture.

Sangolquí

A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.

History & landmarks

Temple of the Fatherland

A massive museum and monument on the slopes of Pichincha, where the decisive battle for Ecuador's independence took place.

Virgin of El Panecillo

A giant aluminum statue on a hilltop that watches over the entire city of Quito.

Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito

The main Catholic church of Quito, located on Plaza Grande, famous for its white facade and colonial art.

Independence Monument

A historic column monument in the heart of Plaza Grande in Quito, honoring the first cry of independence.

Quito Cable Car

One of the highest aerial lifts in the world, taking visitors from the city center up the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano.

Sucre National Theater

The oldest and most prestigious opera house in Quito, housed in a magnificent neoclassical building.

La Mariscal Artisanal Market

A vibrant market in Quito where local artisans sell colorful textiles, jewelry, and traditional souvenirs.

Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium

This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.

More places

Corazón Volcano

A dormant volcano that takes its name from its heart-shaped profile when viewed from the west.

Atacazo Volcano

A stratovolcano featuring a massive caldera rising just southwest of the capital city Quito.

GM OBB Car Assembly

The most important automotive assembly plant in Ecuador, producing vehicles for the local and Andean markets.

Pichincha

Pichincha is an active stratovolcano that rises directly above the capital city of Quito, consisting of several peaks.

Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve

A protected area known for its orchid diversity and countless hummingbird species.

Rumiñahui Volcano

A heavily eroded dormant stratovolcano that rises majestically within the Cotopaxi National Park.

Mindo Cloud Forest

The Mindo Cloud Forest in the Andean valleys is a global birdwatching hub, famous for its many hummingbird species and orchids.

Mindo Butterfly Farm

An interactive garden in the cloud forest where visitors can observe hundreds of colorful butterflies in all stages of life.