AVENUE OF THE VOLCANOES
The Avenue of the Volcanoes is a dramatic corridor of the Central Andes, where colossal snow-capped peaks tower over fertile valleys. It is a land of indigenous heritage and geological wonder.
This spectacular region follows the Pan-American Highway through Ecuador’s volcanic heart. It offers a unique blend of colonial history, vibrant mountain markets, and some of the world’s highest active volcanoes.
Most Popular Attractions
Volcanic Peaks & High Altitudes:
Cotopaxi Volcano: One of the world’s highest active volcanoes, famous for its near-perfect snow-capped symmetrical cone.
Chimborazo Volcano: The highest point in Ecuador; its summit is the point on Earth closest to the sun.
Quilotoa Crater: A stunning emerald-colored lake situated inside the caldera of a dormant volcano.
Illiniza North & South: Twin peaks popular with climbers, offering challenging terrain and breathtaking páramo views.
Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge: An extinct volcano caldera housing one of the last remaining high-altitude Andean forests.
Cayambe Volcano: The only snowy spot on Earth crossed by the Equator line.
Antisana Ecological Reserve: A massive volcano surrounded by vast wetlands, home to the Andean Condor.
Pichincha Volcano: Looming over Quito, accessible by cable car for panoramic views of the “Avenue.”
Colonial Cities & Cultural Hubs:
Quito Historic Center: A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with gold-leafed churches and Spanish colonial plazas.
Cuenca Old Town: Known for its cobbled streets, four rivers, and the iconic blue-domed New Cathedral.
Riobamba: Known as the “Sultan of the Andes,” a primary starting point for train journeys and mountaineering.
Latacunga: A highland city famous for the “Mama Negra” festival and its proximity to Cotopaxi.
Ambato: The “City of Flowers and Fruits,” celebrated for its resilient spirit and vibrant annual festivals.
Guano: A small town near Riobamba famous for its mummy and traditional hand-woven rugs.
Traditional Markets & Modern Adventure:
Otavalo Market: One of the largest and most famous indigenous craft markets in South America.
Baños de Agua Santa: The adventure capital, famous for waterfalls, hot springs, and the “Swing at the End of the World.”
Pailón del Diablo: A thunderous, massive waterfall near Baños with intricate stone steps carved into the cliff.
Ingapirca Ruins: The most significant Inca archaeological site in Ecuador, featuring the Temple of the Sun.
Saquisilí Market: An authentic, non-touristy Thursday market where locals trade livestock and highland produce.
Salinas de Guaranda: A community-led village famous for its high-quality chocolate and cheese cooperatives.
TelefériQo Quito: One of the highest aerial lifts in the world, rising up the flanks of Volcán Pichincha.
Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose): A legendary train descent (currently intermittent) through a steep, zig-zagging mountain pass.
Activities & Experiences
Hike to the Jose Rivas Refuge on Cotopaxi: Trek up to 4,864 meters on one of the world’s highest active volcanoes to touch the snowline and enjoy breathtaking views of the valley.
Mountain Bike Down Cotopaxi National Park: Take a high-adrenaline ride from the volcano’s highlands down to the Limpiopungo lagoon, spotting wild horses along the way.
Hike the Quilotoa Loop: Embark on a multi-day trek through indigenous villages, culminating in the sight of the stunning turquoise water inside a collapsed volcanic caldera.
Soak in the Thermal Springs of Baños: Relax in the volcanic-heated medicinal waters of “The Gateway to the Amazon,” surrounded by towering green cliffs and waterfalls.
Ride the “Swing at the End of the World”: Visit the Casa del Árbol in Baños to swing over a deep canyon with the active Tungurahua Volcano as your backdrop.
Explore the Otavalo Indigenous Market: Visit South America’s largest outdoor market to browse world-famous textiles, alpaca wool sweaters, and hand-carved crafts.
Summit Chimborazo (High Altitude Trek): Stand at the point on Earth closest to the sun. Even if you don’t reach the peak (6,263 meters), you can hike to the high-altitude lagoons.
Take the “Devil’s Nose” Train Concept: Explore the dramatic Alausí region, where the railroad carves through steep Andean switchbacks on a near-vertical mountain face.
Horseback Ride in the High Páramo: Experience the life of a Chagra (Andean cowboy) by riding through the misty, high-altitude grasslands of the Machachi region.
Visit the Ingapirca Ruins: Explore Ecuador’s most significant Inca archaeological site, featuring the unique sun-shaped Temple of the Sun.
Go Canyoning and Ziplining in Baños: Test your nerves by rappelling down waterfalls or flying across the Pastaza River canyon on high-speed cables.
Sample “Cuy” (Guinea Pig) in Latacunga: For the adventurous foodie, try the most traditional Andean delicacy at a local market or specialized restaurant.
Local Tips & Transport
The Pan-American Highway: This is the main artery of the region. It is well-paved and scenic, making it easy to travel between major hubs like Quito, Latacunga, Ambato, and Riobamba.
Public Buses: The most common way to get around. Buses leave frequently from city terminals (Terminal Terrestre). They are very affordable, but keep a close eye on your luggage and be prepared for frequent stops.
Private Shuttles & Pickups: In rural areas like Quilotoa or Cotopaxi, “fletes” (private 4×4 pickups) are essential for reaching trailheads or remote eco-lodges where buses don’t run.
Walking and Altitude: While town centers are walkable, remember that the high altitude (2,500m to 4,000m) makes physical exertion much more difficult. Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
Car Rentals: A great option for freedom, but be wary of “fog banks” in the páramo and occasional landslides during the rainy season. Use GPS, but double-check routes with locals.
Respect the “Apu”: Locals view the volcanoes as sacred spirits (Apus). Treat the mountains with respect; don’t litter and follow designated paths.
Acclimatization is Vital: Spend at least 2 days in Quito or a similar altitude before attempting any major climbs. Drink Mate de Coca (coca tea) or Horchata to help with altitude sickness (soroche).
The Layering Rule: Weather in the Andes changes in minutes. You can experience “four seasons in one day.” Always dress in layers: a base moisture-wicking layer, a warm fleece, and a waterproof outer shell.
Market Etiquette: When shopping in Otavalo or Saquisilí, light bargaining is expected but keep it respectful. A small discount is common, but don’t “lowball” artisans for their hard work.
Sun Protection: Because you are at the equator and high altitude, the UV rays are extremely strong even on cloudy days. Apply high-SPF sunscreen every few hours.
Hidden Gems:
- Salinas de Guaranda: A remote mountain village famous for its community-run chocolate and cheese factories. It’s a model of successful rural cooperatives.
- The Black Sheep Inn: An award-winning eco-lodge in Chugchilán that offers incredible views of the Rio Toachi Canyon and is a perfect base for the Quilotoa Loop.
- Laguna de Colta: Located near Riobamba, this is home to the first Spanish church built in Ecuador (Balvanera) and offers a stunning reflection of Chimborazo in its waters.
- Pondoña Hill: A small volcanic crater inside the Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve near Quito. It is one of the few inhabited volcanic craters in the world.
Language: Kichwa is widely spoken alongside Spanish in the highlands. Learning “Alli shamushca” (Welcome) or “Yupaichani” (Thank you) will earn you many smiles from the indigenous locals.
Top Restaurants
Hornados Carmita [$5-$12] – A legendary stall in the Riobamba central market famous for its slow-roasted pork served with llapingachos (potato cakes) and a tangy agave-based sauce called agrio.
Casa El Recreo [$10-$20] – Operating since 1948 in the Pinllo neighborhood of Ambato, this rustic spot is the gold standard for Gallinas de Pinllo (wood-fired hen) served with peanut sauce.
La Cuyera [$15-$25] – A specialized eatery on the outskirts of Latacunga that focuses on perfectly roasted guinea pig, an Andean delicacy prepared here with traditional spices and crispy skin.
Chugchucaras Rosita [$8-$15] – A bustling, no-frills local favorite in Latacunga serving the city’s signature dish: a platter of deep-fried pork, empanadas, popcorn, and fried plantains.
Sumac Micuy [$10-$18] – A cozy, family-run restaurant in Cotacachi known for serving the best locro de papa (creamy potato soup with avocado) in the northern Imbabura province.
Lentejitas Restaurant [$8-$15] – Tucked into a side street in Riobamba, this “ancestral kitchen” specializes in traditional lentil stews and highland grains, popular with locals for its home-cooked feel.
El Chacarero [$12-$22] – A country-style grill in Riobamba where the focus is on thick Andean steaks and parrilladas served in a garden setting away from the main tourist trail.
Ma’Mia Comida en Leña [$10-$18] – Located in the heart of Riobamba, this spot is beloved for its traditional soups and meats all cooked over an open wood fire for a smoky, authentic flavor.
Asadero Riobambeñito [$8-$15] – A local staple in Riobamba for decades, famous for its juicy rotisserie chicken and traditional sides like mote and beans.
Olla De Barro [$10-$20] – A charming spot in Pujilí that uses traditional clay pots to slow-cook Andean stews, offering a truly authentic taste of the Cotopaxi countryside.
Restaurante Aquí Ecuador [$10-$18] – A simple but highly-regarded eatery in Riobamba that serves a rotating menu of almuerzos (fixed lunches) featuring regional mountain specialties.
El Nativo [$12-$20] – A popular gathering spot in Riobamba that blends a casual bar atmosphere with high-quality traditional snacks and grilled meats.
Cuscungo Restaurante [$20-$40] – Set in a beautiful hilltop location near Cotopaxi, this spot offers a creative menu that uses traditional Andean ingredients like lupin beans in modern, artistic presentations.
Rayuela Restaurant [$18-$35] – A stylish venue in Riobamba that reinterprets Ecuadorian classics with a sophisticated touch, offering a great selection of local craft beers and wines.
Zōn Umami Fusión [$25-$45] – An innovative “author’s kitchen” in Ambato that blends Andean staples with international techniques, creating unique dishes like quinoa-crusted proteins.
Quino [$20-$35] – A modern eatery in Otavalo that focuses on healthy, creative dishes centered around the super-grain quinoa, popular with a younger, health-conscious crowd.
Humo Smokehouse [$20-$40] – A trendy Riobamba gastropub that applies professional smoking techniques to local meats, offering a modern Andean twist on the classic barbecue.
Bear Brothers GastroPub [$15-$30] – A lively spot in Riobamba known for its excellent house-brewed craft beer and a menu of elevated “pub grub” using local cheeses and potatoes.
07 Bistro [$25-$45] – A sleek, contemporary bistro in Ambato that features a refined menu of fusion dishes, blending local ingredients with European culinary styles.
Alquimia [$25-$50] – A creative kitchen in Ambato that treats cooking like a science, offering experimental dishes that highlight the biodiversity of the surrounding volcanic valleys.
Curuchupa Cerveza Artesanal & Grill [$15-$30] – A vibrant spot in Latacunga that pairs artisanal beers with high-quality grilled meats in a modern, industrial-chic setting.
La Casa del Tigre [$20-$40] – A hidden gem in the Otavalo area with an intimate atmosphere and a menu that changes seasonally based on the local highland harvest.
Limo Restobar [$20-$40] – A unique rooftop terrace in Ambato offering a fusion of flavors and an extensive cocktail list, perfect for watching the sunset over the surrounding peaks.
Terraza Resto Bar [$15-$30] – Located in the historic center of Latacunga, this modern terrace offers stunning city views alongside a menu of creative tapas and local snacks.
Ushuaia Fuego y Vino [$30-$50] – An elegant grill in Ambato specializing in premium cuts of meat and a curated wine list, set in a sophisticated, modern environment.
Balcon del Lago [$20-$40] – A scenic restaurant overlooking Lake San Pablo near Otavalo, serving modern takes on local trout and Andean grains with spectacular views.
Bundaváh Café-Fogata [$12-$25] – A creative community space in Latacunga where you can enjoy local coffee and modern Ecuadorian bites around an outdoor fire pit.
Restaurante Tambopaxi [$30-$60] – Located deep within Cotopaxi National Park, this high-altitude lodge serves gourmet Andean cuisine in a stunning stone building with direct views of the volcano.
Hacienda Pimán [$40-$70] – A refined dining room in a historic hacienda near Ibarra, where the chef creates five-course menus using organic ingredients from the property’s own orchards.
Mirador de los Volcanes [$30-$55] – An upscale restaurant on the slopes of the Andes near Cotopaxi that offers a “volcanic menu” featuring local proteins and root vegetables served with panoramic views.
Hacienda San Agustín de Callo [$45-$80] – Built on the site of an Inca palace near Lasso, this exclusive restaurant serves sophisticated “New Andean” cuisine surrounded by authentic Inca stonework.
Chasqui Mirador [$30-$55] – A high-end lookout restaurant near the entrance to Cotopaxi National Park, known for its elegant presentation of traditional soups and high-quality local lamb.
La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa [$50-$90] – An opulent dining experience in Cotacachi where white-gloved service meets a fusion of French and Ecuadorian high-cuisine in a lush garden setting.
Hacienda Zuleta [$45-$75] – A historic farm-to-table experience near Cayambe where guests dine on fresh trout, artisanal cheeses, and organic vegetables grown on the 4,000-acre estate.
Hosteria La Andaluza [$35-$65] – A grand, colonial-style restaurant in the shadow of Mount Chimborazo, famous for its elegant dining room and refined takes on traditional mountain stews.
Abraspungo [$35-$60] – Located on the outskirts of Riobamba, this upscale hotel restaurant is renowned for its elegant atmosphere and excellent preparation of Andean game and fresh trout.
San Agustín Plaza [$30-$55] – An elegant, glass-walled restaurant in Latacunga that offers a refined atmosphere and a menu focused on the high-quality produce of the Cotopaxi province.
La Cosecha Coffee & Bakery [$8-$20] – An international-style bakery in Otavalo that serves the best artisan coffee in the region alongside fresh bagels and locally sourced pastries.
Kawsay Native Restaurant [$12-$25] – A vegetarian-friendly spot in Baños de Agua Santa that uses native “superfoods” like amaranth and lupin in innovative, colorful dishes.
Puerto Lago [$25-$45] – A classic lakeside resort restaurant on the shores of Lake San Pablo, famous for its fresh trout and family-friendly Andean atmosphere.
Cafe Pachamama [$10-$20] – A cozy, bohemian cafe in Otavalo that serves as a community hub, offering organic coffee, homemade cakes, and global fusion snacks.
El Delirio [$15-$30] – Set in the historic house where Simón Bolívar once stayed in Riobamba, this restaurant offers a unique historical atmosphere alongside classic highland dishes.
Manducare Grill & Pub [$15-$30] – A popular local hangout in Cayambe that offers a mix of hearty grilled meats and a wide selection of regional craft beers.
Pizzería Buon Giorno [$12-$25] – A long-standing Italian spot in Latacunga that has earned a local following for its thin-crust pizzas baked in a traditional wood-fired oven.
La Tienda de la Hacienda La Danesa [$15-$30] – A unique gourmet shop and tasting room near the foothills where you can sample artisanal dulce de leche and chocolates made from local mountain milk.
The Red Pub [$10-$25] – A lively, English-style pub in Otavalo that serves a surprising mix of local Andean snacks and international comfort food with a great selection of spirits.
El Mesón del Tren [$15-$30] – A charming, nostalgic restaurant near the Riobamba train station that pays homage to the history of the Andean railway with classic decor and regional specialties.