-1200x1100-c-bottom.jpg "TREN CRUCERO ©")
-0x1100-c-bottom.webp "TREN CRUCERO ©")
Overview
The aptly named Avenue of the Volcanoes is flanked by eight dizzyingly-high snow-mantled mountains striding south of Quito down the Andean spine. It passes through a valley rich with a landscape of dense forest and tiny fields plastering impossibly steep slopes. Dotted around is a mix of deeply traditional indigenous and colonial settlements with horticultural and artisan markets and cottage industries. There’s also a clutch of old estates gifted to conquistadores where the grandiose buildings are now countryside hotels. This is supreme hiking country, with trails leading to craters harbouring turquoise volcanic lakes, usually with views of the biggest peaks, Chimborazo and Cotopaxi.
Holidays Avenue of the Volcanoes
Explore our range of holidays to Ecuador which include a visit to the stunning Avenue of the Volcanoes. Book now with Journey Latin America.
Group - Classic
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands / Galapagos Islands
Albatross: Ecuador’s highlands and Galapagos
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands / Galapagos Islands
Ecuador’s Andes and Galapagos Islands hop
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands
Self-drive Ecuador: The back roads of the Andes
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Private Journeys
Ecuador & Galapagos Islands
Self-drive Ecuador: The Avenue of the Volcanoes
(based on two people sharing & excluding flights)
Things to do
Discover a range of activities, including visiting Cotopaxi National Park and the Avenue of the Volcanoes in Ecuador. Book now with Journey Latin America.
-1024x768-c-center.jpg "TREN CRUCERO ©")
-1024x768-c-center.webp "TREN CRUCERO ©")
Accommodation
Browse our range of accommodation, including charming inns and haciendas, in Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes. Book now with Journey Latin America.
Where to go when - our guide to Avenue of the Volcanoes
The weather in Avenue of the Volcanoes is wide and varied
The Avenue of Volcanoes enjoys a year round spring-like climate with temperatures averaging 21°C. The fertile highland valley cuts through the spine of the Andean mountain range south from Quito for some 200 miles to the exquisite colonial city of Cuenca and is flanked on either side by eight majestic snow-capped volcanoes that soar to between 5000-6300m. This is the heartland of indigenous Ecuador, famed for its artisan villages, colonial towns, colourful weekly markets, picturesque patchwork fields and some of Ecuador’s best hiking. The best time to visit is during the drier months of June-September. During the wetter months there is still plenty of morning sunshine, but overcast days and intense afternoon downpours are frequent (particular March and April), with the volcanic peaks more likely to be shrouded in cloud. Because of the altitude temperatures drop significantly at night, to as low as a few degrees. The bustling indian market in Saquislii is one of the most colourful and traditional in the country and takes place every Thursday.
View our Avenue of the Volcanoes weather guidePapagaio
Your edit for Latin American inspiration
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
View Extraordinary Inspiration
