The Avenue of Volcanoes is the majestic corridor running south from Quito through the central Andes, named by explorer Alexander von Humboldt for its parallel chains of volcanic peaks. For families, this region offers a road-trip friendly itinerary filled with outdoor activity and dramatic scenery. The altitude is significant here, often exceeding 3,000 meters (9,800 feet), so it is advisable to travel slowly and keep hydrated. The weather changes rapidly from intense equatorial sun to chilly mountain mists, requiring layers of clothing.
The crown jewel is Cotopaxi National Park, dominated by the perfectly conical active volcano. Families can visit the Limpiopungo Lagoon, a flat and accessible walking trail where wild horses graze and Andean gulls fly against the backdrop of the mountain. For a more rugged experience, the Quilotoa Loop offers views of a turquoise crater lake. Visitors can hike down to the water's edge and, to save tired legs on the return journey, hire mules to carry children back up to the rim.
Further south lies Baños de Agua Santa, often considered the adventure capital of the country and a favorite for kids. Nestled in a valley of waterfalls, Baños offers a lower elevation and warmer climate. Families can rent bicycles to ride the 'Route of the Waterfalls,' stopping to view the powerful Pailón del Diablo (Devil's Cauldron). The town is famous for its thermal baths and the 'Swing at the End of the World' at Casa del Arbol, which offers thrilling photo opportunities without extreme danger. The region is also dotted with historic haciendas—working farms converted into hotels—where children can interact with llamas, alpacas, and farm animals while parents enjoy traditional Andean hospitality and cuisine like locro de papa (potato soup).
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Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
While the volcanic corridor offers genuinely impressive trekking, the region has zero editorial attractions in the database to support an 'excellent' rating. The same parent activity (Andean volcano trekking) is already rated 'excellent' for Quito & Northern Highlands, which has 8 supporting attractions. Downgrading to 'very_good' better reflects the evidence gap and avoids two adjacent Highland regions both claiming the top tier for the same activity set. The Avenue of Volcanoes remains highly rated for adventure but the 'excellent' distinction is better reserved for the region with documented evidence.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Exceptional opportunities for learning about volcanology, Inca history at Ingapirca, and traditional Andean crafts in Otavalo. Access to archaeological sites and indigenous communities is easiest during the dry months, while the high rainfall of the wet season can limit access to remote educational sites.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Features world-class volcanic hot springs (notably Papallacta and Baños) and luxury historic haciendas that offer peaceful Andean retreats. While thermal pools are enjoyable year-round, the low humidity and clear mountain views of the dry season significantly enhance the high-end relaxation experience.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
A spectacular scenic drive along the Pan-American Highway through a corridor of eight volcanoes and high-altitude paramo. Peak months offer clear skies and safer driving conditions; the rainy season (Jan-May) poses risks of landslides and poor visibility through the mountain passes.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Elite terrain for high-altitude mountain biking and horseback riding across diverse volcanic landscapes with professional-grade facilities. The dry season provides stable trail conditions and optimal temperatures for physical exertion; heavy rainfall from January to May creates muddy, technical terrain unsuitable for most families.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
The Avenue of Volcanoes region has zero editorial attractions and its city_cultural notes incorrectly reference Quito and Cuenca, which belong to separate dedicated regions (Quito & Northern Highlands and Cuenca & Southern Highlands respectively). The corridor itself is rural/volcanic — its own cultural assets are small highland towns and indigenous markets, not UNESCO cities. Downgrading to 'good' reflects the authentic but modest cultural offering of the volcanic corridor itself, while avoiding double-counting assets that properly belong to neighboring regions.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Offers authentic, internationally significant festivals like Inti Raymi (June) and Mama Negra (Sept/Nov) that showcase deep Andean syncretism. These peak festival months provide rare cultural insights, though the region lacks the global scale of mass-market events found in other continents.
Attractions (54 total)
Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Avenue of the Volcanoes (Avenida de los Volcanes)
Quito
Approximately 300km paved highway (3-5 days) following the Pan-American Highway (E35) south from Quito to Cuenca. The route offers views of over 14 volcanic peaks, including Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and Illinizas, passing through the high-altitude Andean páramo.
Visit website →Waterfall Route (Ruta de las Cascadas)
Baños de Agua Santa
61km paved descent (1 day) from Baños toward Puyo along the Pastaza River canyon. The road transitions from Andean highlands to the Amazon basin, featuring dozens of waterfalls, including the famous Pailón del Diablo, and numerous cable cars (tarabitas).
Visit website →The Quilotoa Loop (Circuito Quilotoa)
Latacunga
200km loop (2-3 days) on mostly paved and well-maintained secondary roads. This cultural and scenic route climbs through remote Andean villages like Pujilí, Zumbahua, and Chugchilán, culminating at the emerald-green Quilotoa crater lake.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Botanical Garden Atocha-La Liria
Ambato
A historic 19th-century estate combining lush botanical collections of Andean flora with the preserved colonial homes of famous Ecuadorian authors.
Visit website →San Martin Orchid Garden
Baños de Agua Santa
A specialized conservation garden showcasing a vast collection of native Ecuadorian orchids and tropical plants set against a dramatic cliffside landscape.
Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve
Riobamba
Home to the highest peak in Ecuador, this reserve offers families the chance to see vicuñas and reach the closest point on Earth to the sun.
Visit website →Cotopaxi National Park
Latacunga
An iconic snow-capped volcano within a national park where families can enjoy scenic drives, high-altitude hiking, and spotting wild Andean horses.
Visit website →Quilotoa Crater Lake
Zumbahua
A breathtaking turquoise-colored lake located inside a volcanic caldera, offering families spectacular views and the option to hike or ride mules down to the shore.
Cathedral of Riobamba
Riobamba
A historic landmark featuring a unique facade reconstructed from the stone ruins of the city's original church destroyed in the 1797 earthquake.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Holy Water
Baños de Agua Santa
A beautiful neo-Gothic sanctuary built from dark volcanic stone, featuring murals of local miracles and serving as a spiritual heart for visitors.
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Cotopaxi Refuge Hike
Cotopaxi National Park
2km challenging high-altitude hike from the parking area to the José Rivas Refuge. The trail sits at 4,500m and ascends to 4,864m, often continuing to the glacier edge. Elevation gain 364m.
Visit website →Quilotoa Loop
Sigchos
35km moderate-to-challenging 3-4 day trek through the Andean highlands, passing through indigenous villages and canyons before ending at the Quilotoa crater lake. Total elevation gain approx 2,500m.
Visit website →Ruta de las Cascadas (Waterfalls Route)
Baños de Agua Santa
18km easy downhill cycling route following the Pastaza River canyon to the town of Río Verde. Features numerous waterfalls including the famous Pailón del Diablo. Bike rental: Geotours (geotours.com.ec).
Visit website →Chimborazo Downhill MTB Route
Riobamba
35km moderate mountain bike descent starting from the Hermanos Carrel Refuge (4,800m) on Chimborazo. Features rapid elevation loss on gravel and paved roads. Bike rental: Pro Bici (probici.com).
Visit website →The Condor Trek
Papallacta
60km expert 4-5 day trek through remote high-altitude paramo ecosystems. Routes pass the Antisana and Sincholagua volcanoes, concluding near Cotopaxi National Park. Total elevation gain exceeds 3,000m.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Ingapirca Archaeological Complex
Cañar
The largest and most significant Inca ruins in Ecuador, featuring the unique elliptical Sun Temple and ancient stone masonry.
Visit website →Monasterio de Tilipulo
Latacunga
A historic 18th-century colonial estate and cultural center featuring beautiful courtyards, a massive sundial, and white-washed arched walkways.
Pucará de Salitre
Cotopaxi National Park
This ancient Inca military fortress offers visitors a chance to explore historic ruins with panoramic views of the volcanic páramo landscape.
Ruins of the Monastery of the Assumption
Guano
Families can explore the atmospheric stone ruins of a 16th-century monastery and visit the adjacent museum housing a famous local mummy.
Visit website →Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
La Casa del Arbol
Baños de Agua Santa
The iconic 'Swing at the End of the World' offers families a unique way to view the active Tungurahua Volcano from a hilltop park.
Pailon del Diablo
Baños de Agua Santa
A massive waterfall featuring a network of narrow stone stairs and suspension bridges that provide a thrilling outdoor exploration experience.
Visit website →Adventure Park San Martin
Baños de Agua Santa
An exhilarating activity center offering canopy tours, rock climbing, and a glass-bottom bridge over the Pastaza River canyon.
Theme Park / Amusement Park
La Casa del Árbol
Baños de Agua Santa
A world-famous adventure site featuring the 'Swing at the End of the World' and elevated platforms with stunning views of Tungurahua Volcano.
Visit website →San Martín Adventure Park
Baños de Agua Santa
An expansive outdoor adventure hub offering canyon ziplining, suspension bridges, and rock climbing activities overlooking the Pastaza River.
Visit website →Discovery Baños
Baños de Agua Santa
An immersive dinosaur-themed park featuring life-sized animatronics, interactive educational exhibits, and family-friendly walking trails set in a tropical valley.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Latacunga Historic Center
Latacunga
A charming colonial district featuring volcanic stone architecture and the central hub for the vibrant Mama Negra cultural festivities.
Visit website →Riobamba Historic Center
Riobamba
Known as the Sultan of the Andes, this historic city offers elegant neoclassical plazas and sweeping views of the massive Chimborazo volcano.
Guano Historic Village
Guano
A historic artisanal village famous for its handmade carpets and a local museum housing a naturally preserved 16th-century mummy.
Salasaka Cultural Area
Salasaka
An indigenous community between Ambato and Baños dedicated to preserving ancient Kichwa weaving traditions and vibrant textile arts.
Alausí Historic Town
Alausí
A designated Pueblo Magico with steep cobblestone streets and colorful heritage houses, serving as the gateway to the famous Devil's Nose railway.
Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
Mariscal Sucre Interpretation Center
Cotopaxi National Park
An educational facility within the national park offering fascinating exhibits on the volcanology of Cotopaxi and the diverse flora and fauna of the Andean paramo.
Natural Science Museum of Colegio Maldonado
Riobamba
One of the oldest museums in Ecuador, this site showcases an impressive collection of fossils and geological samples housed in a beautiful historic school building.
Héctor Vásquez Museum of Natural Sciences
Ambato
A comprehensive natural history museum located within the La Salle school, featuring extensive collections of taxidermy, minerals, and archaeological artifacts from the region.
Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Pailón del Diablo
Baños de Agua Santa
An enormous, powerful waterfall accessible via dramatic stone stairs carved into the mountainside through lush cloud forest.
Antisana Ecological Reserve
Pintag
A pristine sanctuary known for its massive glacier-covered volcano and as one of the best places to spot the Andean Condor.
Visit website →Manto de la Novia Waterfall
Baños de Agua Santa
A beautiful white cascade resembling a bride's veil, plunging into the Pastaza River canyon and viewable from a cable car.
Natural Hot Spring / Thermal Bath / Historic Bathhouse
Termas de la Virgen
Baños de Agua Santa
Public thermal bath complex featuring outdoor pools with temperatures ranging from 42°C to 54°C. The water is rich in minerals, particularly sulfur and iron, giving it a characteristic yellowish hue. The facility is famously located directly at the foot of the 80-meter 'Cascada de la Virgen' waterfall.
Visit website →Balneario Yanayacu
Salcedo
Public mineral bath facility fed by natural springs from the surrounding volcanic terrain. The pools maintain a moderate thermal temperature (approx 28-30°C) and are rich in minerals believed to have dermatological benefits. The site features several large outdoor pools and traditional changing facilities.
Termas de Tesalia
Machachi
Historic thermal-mineral springs located in the valley of Machachi. Famous for its naturally effervescent 'sparkling' water high in bicarbonate and magnesium. The complex features outdoor pools and classic stone masonry dating back to the early 20th century, set against a backdrop of Andean volcanoes.
Visit website →Termas El Salado
Baños de Agua Santa
A traditional public thermal facility located in a narrow canyon along the Bascún River. The pools are fed by natural geothermal springs with temperatures reaching 52°C. The mineral-rich waters contain high levels of bicarbonate and sodium, believed to provide therapeutic benefits for muscular and respiratory health.
Water Park / Splash Park / Aquatic Centre
Termas de la Virgen (Recreativas)
Baños de Agua Santa
A modern thermal water park featuring large pools, multiple multi-story water slides, and views of the surrounding green cliffs.
Parque Acuático de Salcedo
Salcedo
A municipal water park located along the Pan-American Highway featuring heated pools and slides, serving as a popular stop for families traveling the Avenue of Volcanoes.
Parque Acuático Los Elenes
Guano
A popular family-oriented aquatic center near Riobamba offering diverse swimming pools, high-speed slides, and recreational green spaces.
Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Museo de Tigua - Julio Toaquiza
Tigua
A vibrant gallery showcasing the world-renowned indigenous sheepskin paintings that depict local Andean legends and daily life.
Casa del Portal
Ambato
A beautifully restored colonial building in the heart of Ambato featuring diverse art galleries and historical exhibits for all ages.
Museo de Arte Religioso de la Concepción
Riobamba
This historic convent houses an impressive collection of colonial-era religious art and sculptures within a stunning architectural setting.
Visit website →National Park / Nature Reserve
Pasochoa Wildlife Refuge
Machachi
An extinct volcanic crater housing one of the last remaining high-altitude Andean forests, featuring well-maintained trails ideal for family birdwatching and hiking.
Visit website →Ilinizas Ecological Reserve
Machachi
Protecting the twin peaks of Iliniza North and South, this reserve offers diverse climate zones and scenic paramo landscapes for adventure-seeking families.
Visit website →Sangay National Park
Baños de Agua Santa
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring diverse ecosystems from tropical rainforests to snow-capped peaks, including the active Tungurahua volcano.
Visit website →Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Tukushpa Museo de la Llama
Guano
An educational farm and museum dedicated to Andean camelids, offering hands-on interactions with alpacas and llamas in a scenic mountain setting.
Granja El Arca
Pelileo
A comprehensive agritourism farm and rescue center featuring exotic birds, petting areas, and lush gardens near Baños.
La Granja del Tío Mario
Machachi
A traditional Andean farm experience where families can interact with dairy cows, sheep, and horses in the heart of Chagra cowboy country.
Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Ecozoológico San Martín
Baños de Agua Santa
A popular wildlife conservation center built into a volcanic canyon, where families can view native species like Andean condors, pumas, and spectacled bears.
Major International Festival / Cultural Event
Mama Negra Festival
Latacunga
Early November (main civic event) and late September (religious event), 1-2 day cultural parade, attracts over 200,000 visitors, world-renowned syncretic celebration featuring the 'Black Mother' on horseback, ornate costumes, and traditional dances; highly family-friendly with vibrant street theater and local delicacies.
Visit website →