Central Highlands

The most dramatic geographical feature of Ecuador is its Central Highlands. Here, the soaring Andes split into two local ranges and a magnificent central valley. The region is known as the Avenue of the Volcanoes, for along it most of Ecuador’s 51 volcanic peaks can be found. At the northern end of the valley is Ecuador’s capital city, Quito. The countryside is superb for outdoor activities including trekking, mountain biking, horseback riding, trout fishing, white water rafting, bird watching and mountain climbing. Enjoy a soak in the hot springs at Banos, stay at a charming colonial hacienda, absorb the sights, sounds and tastes of the Ecuadorian countryside, and visit one of the local Indian markets selling everything from delicious indigenous cuisine, handicrafts to colourful weavings. We strongly recommend, the small highland town of Otavalo, home to the largest indigenous market of its kind in South America.