The Puyango Petrified Forest is home to the largest known area of exposed petrified wood in South America. The majority of this wood comes from the Araucarias family - a tree that is not often fossilized. Fossils and petrified trees in Puyango range from 60 million to 500 million years old. Unsurprisingly, Puyango is considered to be one of the most important petrified forests in the world.  

From the port, drive southeast to the town of Puyango, near Ecuador’s border with Peru. Once at the Petrified Forest, begin to explore along with the guide. In addition to the petrified trees, many marine fossils are visible, evidence that this area was once under the sea.  

You also might spot fauna from the present day; with some lucky, a fist of bird species to be found here throughout the year, with equally beautiful butterfly species. There are also spiders, termite hills and dragonflies. Some of the living trees that are found here are the Kapok and Ceiba trees.  

After the walk, we drive to a local resort where we have lunch.  

Before returning to the quayside you are invited to visit the Cocoa route in the resort. Ecuador is considered the best producer of aroma cocoa in the world, and Hillary Resort has more than 220,000 plants of the variety CCN5. While you walk through the cocoa trails, a short explanation will be provided and at the end delight your senses with an artisanal preparation of chocolate.