Drive Along The Avenue Of Volcanoes

Have an incredible journey through the heart of the Andes, from colonial Quito in the north to wonderful Cuenca in the south. The landscape is thrilling; crystalline lagoons, lush valleys and striking snow topped volcanoes!

Volcanic landscape
Traditional Andean villages and markets
Walks and horseriding
Lagoons

Start your Ecuador Holiday today!

Avenue Of Volcanoes. Ecuador Escorted Tour

WHERE SHOULD I VISIT ALONG THE AVENUE OF VOLCANOES?

Several hours outside of Quito stop at Cotopaxi National Park, home to the active conical Cotopaxi volcano. Look up for a chance to spot condors soaring through the sky! Most tours offer trips up to the glacier. If you want to climb to the summit you will need to have a guide. Conditions can change quicky at such high altitude; make sure you bring plenty of warm clothing with you.

Start your holiday to the Avenue of Volcanoes in Ecuador. Join an escorted tour, or even self- drive along this incredible route.

Cotopaxi National Park. Holiday To Ecuador

Criss-cross along the mountain roads to reach the greeny-blue Quilotoa Lagoon, embedded in a volcanic crater in the centre of the Andes. There are lots of short and longer walks on offer here...you can even go horse-riding! Then, relax those muscles in the thermal springs of Banos, witnessing active Tungurahua in the distance sending ash and smoke skyward!

For an unforgettable train journey we recommend a trip on the Devil's Nose Railway (La Nariz del Diablo). Zig zag down the mountain on this incredible example of engineering. (Currently, the railway isn't open).

Experience Andean culture by visiting a local village market high in the mountains, best visited early in the morning. Witness vicunas roaming around the Chimborazo wildlife reserve with the mighty Chimborazo standing proud.

Begin your Holiday to Ecuador:

EXAMPLE ITINERARIES

Holiday Overview
Itinerary

11 DAY ECUADOR SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAY

Start in the wonderful UNESCO capital of Quito. Pick up your 4 x 4 vehicle and begin your adventure along the Avenue of Volcanoes, an area jam packed with natural wonders!

Then, enjoy walking around Cuenca and there's plenty of time to see Las Cajas National Park. To end the holiday, there's a chilled two stay on Ecuador's coast.

What's Included?

4 WD car hire & insurance
Tour of Isla de la Plata and Isla Salango
Accommodation
Guided city tour of Quito
Local guide at Cotopaxi National Park
Local guide and entrance fee to Chimborazo Nature Reserve
Transfers

Guide Price 2023: £1699pp

(International Flights additional)

Days 1 - 2: Explore the colonial cobblestone streets of Quito. Enjoy a guided city tour. Visit the 'middle of the world' and 'jump' over the equator!

Day 3: Cotopaxi National Park

Collect your 4WD car, and journey through the epic area of the Avenue of Volcanoes, the heart of the Andes.

Day 4: Baños Valley

Discover waterfalls and see the famous Devil’s Cauldron.

Day 5: Chimborazo Nature Reserve

This desert-like landscape offers great options for hiking and gives lots of opportunity to see wildlife. Ecuador’s highest volcano will loom over you in the background.

Day 6: Cuenca

Head south to the beautiful city of Cuenca and explore!

Day 7: Guayaquil

Drive to the coastal town of Guayaquil

Days 8 - 10: Puerto Lopez

Finish your Ecuadorian self drive holiday by relaxing by the sea. Enjoy a tour of Isla de la Plata and Isla Salango, look for Blue-footed boobies!

Day 11:

Drive to Quito to return the car at the airport. Flight back to the UK.

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When To Go

-A spring like climate all year long.
-Average temperatures are 19-21°C, colder at night.
-Drier months are June-September.
-March-June are the wettest months. Expect cloudy skies and downpours, especially in the afternoon.

Flight Time

15-16 hours (indirect from UK)