Avenue of the Volcanoes

Ecuador is world-renowned for its volcanoes, whether you're scaling them with an ice axe or simply admiring them from a distance. Starting and ending in Quito you'll spend eight days following the volcano trail by car to get up close to some of the country's finest—snow-capped and active (Cotopaxi), green (Cuicocha), water-filled (Quilotoa) and extinct (Cayambe). In funky Baños you'll enjoy the upside to all this volcanic activity—hot springs—before ending in Quito.

Day 1 Quito

Arrive in Quito at any time, and an arrival transfer is included. Nestled in a valley flanked by the snowcapped Andean mountains and abundant volcanoes, the Ecuadorian capital is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its beautiful location and rich history.

Day 2 Quito/Otavalo (B)

Travel north along the Pan-American Highway winding past sumptuous scenery with stops in-between. We have the opportunity to shop for handmade clothing and handicrafts as we visit the leather town of Cotacachi and the Otavalo market, South America’s biggest. You will overnight in an hacienda near Otavalo.

Day 3 Otavalo/Cotopaxi (B,D)

Spend the morning driving along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Be sure to see the peaks of volcanoes named Pichincha, Iliniza and the gigantic Antisana. Your evening will be spent near Ecuador's beautiful Cotopaxi Volcano.

Day 4 Cotopaxi (B,D)

Venture into Cotopaxi National Park for leisurely walks and hikes as you traverse this stunning site. The cone-shaped, snowcapped volcano is considered the highest active volcano in the world 5897 meters – 19347 feet..

Day 5,6 Cotopaxi / Baños (2B,2D)

Transfer to the popular tourist town of Baños meaning 'baths.' This famous bath town counts numerous thermal springs that originate from the base of a volcano. Flanked by snowcapped ridges, this is the perfect setting for outdoor pursuits including optional horseback riding, hot springs, hiking, mountain biking, climbing and river rafting. It’s highly recommended to rise early and from the hot spring vantage point catch the sunrise over the mountains.

Day 7 Baños/Quito (B)

Transfer back to Quito for one last night in the town.

Day 8 Quito (B)

The day is at leisure before you go to the airport.