Stretching for 200 kilometres between the Eastern and Western Cordillera mountain chains, Ecuador’s “Avenue of the Volcanoes” encompasses as many as 14 of the country’s most impressive volcanoes. Cotopaxi, said to be the world’s most beautiful volcano, is situated in Cotopaxi National Park (90 minutes’ drive south from Quito). Only experienced mountaineers should tackle ascending this mighty peak, as reaching the summit requires glacier climbing. Cayambe, with its permanent snow cap, and Chimborazo, Ecuador’s tallest volcanic mountain, are also stand-out features along this spectacular route, while Sangay and Tungurahua are among the 10 most active volcanoes in the world. A number of tours start and end in the country’s vibrant capital city, Quito.
Chugchilan is a small Andean village located in northwest Ecuador. Situated roughly in the middle of the popular Quilotoa Loop hiking trail, Chugchilan boasts a host of accommodation options and has become a popular ecotourism destination without losing its traditional charm. Chugchilan is a paradise for nature lovers and offers a fantastic base for exploring the region, with numerous day-hikes - such as tracks to the Rio Toachi Canyon and to Quilotoa (situated above town in a crater) - and longer trails like the Ridge Hike to explore. Other key activities include horse riding through cloud forests in the Iliniza Ecological Reserve, visiting local cheese factories, and checking out the nearby towns of Isinlivi and Guantualo (with its impressive Monday Market).
The small, central-Ecuadorian town of Banos de Agua Santa (‘Baths of Holy Water’) lies in the verdant foothills of the Tungurahua volcano. Adventure lovers can make the most of this idyllic setting by taking a waterfall tour; going paragliding, bridge jumping or white-water rafting. Those looking for views with a hint of danger can try a ride on the ‘Swing at the End of The World’, to sail out over the mountainside and see unobstructed views of the (possibly erupting) volcano. For the less bold, a visit to the mineral-rich hot springs will do nicely, followed by a stroll along the town’s red, blue and yellow pavement and a sampling of the local fare at one of the many welcoming eateries. Several beautiful colourfully-lit cathedrals add a sense of wonder to the town at night.
The bustling hub of Tena is bounded by the Amazon Rainforest of northeastern Ecuador. While many use the city - known locally as the ‘Cinnamon Capital of Ecuador’ - as a gateway for jungle trips deep into the Amazon, it has also grown into a major whitewater rafting and kayaking destination, with enthusiasts traveling from all corners of the globe to take advantage of the incredible network of rivers and tributaries surrounding the city.
Perched high up in the spectacularly scenic Andes Mountain Range, the small town of Papallacta is known for its breathtaking setting and high-altitude hot springs. The undeniable highlights of this town are tucked away in the surrounding landscape. They include the beautiful Cayambe-Coca Ecological Reserve, boasting numerous glistening lakes and scenic trails and the luxurious therapeutic hot springs at the Termas de Papallacta Spa and Resort, which offer over three-dozen sparkling pools. Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike can discover the beautiful surrounding valleys, explore the lush jungle trails, and soak in the steaming open-air baths with the majestic Andean mountains as a backdrop.
