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Ecuador's Avenue of Volcanoes
The Andes Mountains stretch north to south across Ecuador, dividing its coastal lowlands from the Amazon Basin. A 200-mile section of this continental spine known as the Avenue of Volcanoes is famous for its unmatched concentration of high volcanic summits. On this stretch of the Andean spine are nearly forty volcanic summits over 15,000 ft, including famed giants like Cotopaxi and Chimborazo.
Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi, one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, is located 50 miles south of Quito. Cotopaxi’s icy summit rises a staggering 19,347 feet, dominating the treeless paramo at its base. The surrounding national park is home to Andean Condors, guanacos, and wild horses. Traditional market towns—such as Latacunga, Saquisilí, Pujilí, Tigua, Zumbahua, and Riobamba—are located approximately 20 miles to the southwest, offering textiles, ceramics, glass, and leather goods.
Another 50 miles to the south sits the peaceful town of Riobamba, a perfect base for exploration of Volcan Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest mountain. The Chimborazo Volcano is 20,703 feet tall, looming seven miles to the northwest. Four other snow-capped peaks also surround the town.
Nariz del Diablo
Riobamba is also the northern departure point for the famous Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) train journey. The Devil’s Nose is known for its harrowing switchback descent and audacious engineering. The train usually departs Riobamba on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings, returning from Alausi and Sibambe by early evening.
Tungurahua
The riverside town of Baños, 34 miles to the northeast of Riobamba, lies near the base of the active Tungurahua Volcano. The town is famous for its hot springs, waterfalls, and temperate climate. Nearby, the Sangay National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) protects ecosystems ranging from glaciers to tropical rainforest.
What to do in Ecuador's Avenue of Volcanoes
LANDED arranges privately guided experiences throughout the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Guests can explore Cotopaxi National Park on foot, mountain bike, or horseback. Visitors to the area can also enjoy river rafting, rappelling, multi-day climbs to Coptopaxi, in addition to day trips from Quito.
Visits to artisan communities and regional markets can also be arranged. For those interested in train travel, private segments along the historic railway can be incorporated, including routes through Andean valleys and the dramatic switchbacks of the Devil’s Nose.
What is the Weather Like?
At elevations between 9,000 and 13,000 feet, the Avenue of the Volcanoes experiences cool days, cold nights, and strong sun at high altitude. Daytime highs average in the 50s and 60s °F, while nights often dip near freezing. June through September tends to be drier and sunnier; the rainiest months are typically March and April, with afternoon storms more likely at higher elevations.
Due to the elevation, some travelers may experience mild altitude effects. To ease the transition, we recommend resting well, staying hydrated, eating lightly, and avoiding alcohol upon arrival.
These averages are changing. Please check extended weather forecasts using your favorite weather app prior to departure.
Getting There
The Avenue of the Volcanoes is typically accessed by road from Quito, with a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours to Cotopaxi and 4 to 5 hours to Riobamba. Baños, located just east of the corridor, is another convenient entry point—particularly for visits to Chimborazo and the southern highlands, with a drive of roughly 1.5 hours to Riobamba.
LANDED arranges private overland transfers, regional charter flights, and curated touring throughout the region. Select itineraries can also include segments of Ecuador’s restored highland railway, with routes that wind through Andean valleys and arrive in the colonial city of Riobamba.
Start your journey today
LANDED delivers the finest in custom, private travel to Central America, South America, and Antarctica. These regions are our passion; we know them first-hand and by heart. Speak with one of our travel designers and let us create a tailored itinerary for you in the Avenue of Volcanoes.
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