Hit the road on the aptly named Avenue of the Volcanoes. The journey will take you through the winding roads of the beautiful Ecuadorian countryside in the heart of the Andes – passing by dense forests, indigenous settlements, artisan markets and all flanked by towering majestic mountains.

It is recommended that you spend your free time exploring Cotopaxi National Park, where the snow-capped symmetrical coned Cotopaxi Volcano dominates the skyline. It is possible to ascend the volcano although there are several options for scenic hiking in the park where you are likely to spot llamas, horses and deer roaming freely.  

Continue your journey exploring the Avenue of Volcanoes in the verdant Baños Valley where you can explore the many waterfalls of the region. The most impressive is the Pailon del Diablo which eerily directly translates as the ‘Devil’s Cauldron’. Observe how the waterfall, which lies on the edge of the cloud forest, thunders down an impressive 265 feet creating a powerful mist and spectral ambience.

Today you head east along the Ruta de las Cascadas (Route of the Waterfalls) to Puyo. The journey is incredibly scenic, it takes around one and half hours, but we highly recommend stopping along the way for photos and to take in some of the beautiful waterfalls.

From Puyo, you’ll notice a change in temperature and flora, as you descend into the Amazon basin and forest-clad hills surrounding the small town of Tena. Here you’ll stay in a comfortable lodge with included activities. Embark on walks within the jungle, where your guide will tell you all about the delicate eco-system, discover remote waterfalls, natural pools and take a cookery lesson back at the lodge.

Drive north ascending into the cloud forest at Cosanga where your all-inclusive lodge is ideally nestled between two national parks, creating a corridor for wildlife. This is an important birding area with over 300 species recorded, as well as sightings of tapir, spectacled bear and giant anteater.

Your stay here includes excursions from forest hikes and night walks to canoeing downstream and cookery classes. We can also arrange special interest birding excursions, speak to your Travel Specialist for more information.

Depart your lodge and climb higher into the Andes, your final stop being Papallacta. This small village is famous for its hot springs, so it’s the perfect place to relax in rejuvenating waters at the end of your holiday.

The drive back to Quito takes a round one hour, where you’ll return your car and take an overnight flight back to the UK.