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 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, you will begin exploring with the guide. In addition to petrified trees, many marine fossils are visible, which shows that this area was once under the sea.

You also might spot present-day fauna, as well. Several bird species can be found here throughout the year, with equally beautiful butterfly species. There are also spiders, termite hills, and dragonflies. Some of the trees 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 quay, you can visit the Cocoa route within 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 CCN5 variety. While you walk through the cocoa trails, a guide will give a short explanation. At the end, indulge your senses with artisanal chocolate.