Valle de los Chillos

Valle de los Chillos is an inter-Andean valley located about twenty kilometers southeast of Quito, in Pichincha province. Framed by the volcanoes Cotopaxi, Antisana and Pasochoa, it offers a milder climate than the capital and lush agricultural scenery. Sangolquí, its main town, is renowned for its markets and local gastronomy. The valley attracts both Quiteños on weekend getaways and travelers seeking a peaceful base close to the city.

Practical info at a glance

• Access from Quito: intercity buses from Quitumbe terminal or taxis/rideshare; the main road is well served.
• Recommended duration: a full day to combine market, gastronomy and nature; two days if you wish to explore neighboring reserves.
• Altitude: approximately 2,500 m — notably lower than Quito (2,850 m), making the valley more pleasant for those sensitive to altitude.
• Dress code: no particular constraints; bring an extra layer for evenings.

What to see

The valley unfolds cornfields, flowers and vegetables between colonial haciendas and quiet villages. Sangolquí's market, one of the most vibrant in the region, brings together local producers and artisans every Sunday. The slopes of Pasochoa volcano shelter a forest reserve where endemic Andean bird species still thrive.

History and context

Before the Spanish conquest, the valley was inhabited by the Quitus and Caras peoples, then integrated into the Inca empire. The Spanish established haciendas there from the 16th century onward, exploiting the fertility of volcanic soils. Sangolquí was established as an autonomous canton (Rumiñahui) in 1938, in honor of the Inca general who resisted the conquest.

Highlights of your visit

Sangolquí Market

Sangolquí's Sunday market is one of the most vibrant gatherings in the region. Andean fruits, vegetables, roasted meats and crafts mingle in an authentic atmosphere, far from mass tourism circuits.

Local gastronomy

The valley is known for hornado (roast suckling pig), Sangolquí's emblematic specialty. Restaurants and street stands serve it all weekend. Cuy (roasted guinea pig) and llapingachos (potato pancakes) round out the local table.

Pasochoa Ecological Reserve

A few kilometers from Sangolquí, the Pasochoa reserve protects primary Andean forest between 2,700 and 4,200 m elevation. Marked trails allow you to observe hummingbirds, tanagers and, on clear days, the collapsed crater of its namesake volcano.

Colonial haciendas

Several historic haciendas in the valley have been converted into hotels or restaurants. They retain their colonial architecture—paved courtyards, private chapels, gardens—and provide a pleasant setting for a break or stay.

Photography tips

Morning light is ideal for photographing Sangolquí market before crowds arrive. Late afternoon often clears clouds from Antisana and Cotopaxi volcanoes, offering striking backdrops from the valley's heights. In Pasochoa reserve, prioritize early hours for birdwatching.

Location and access

Valle de los Chillos extends southeast of Quito, accessible via the E35 Pan-American Highway then the road to Sangolquí. Buses depart regularly from Quitumbe terminal. By taxi or rental car, allow about 30 to 40 minutes from Quito's historic center depending on traffic. The valley is also close to Pasochoa ecological reserve and Cotopaxi national park.

Around the area

• Pasochoa Ecological Reserve — primary Andean forest with hiking trails and birdwatching.
• Cotopaxi National Park — one of the world's highest active volcanoes, about an hour to the south.
• Quito's Historic Centre — UNESCO world heritage site, about thirty kilometers to the northwest.
• La Mica Lagoon — high-altitude lake on Antisana's slopes, accessible from the valley.