Avenue of the Volcanoes
Ecuador
In short: Avenue of the Volcanoes is a about 450 km scenic road trip in Ecuador, typically driven over 5 days, best in June-September. Highlights: Quito, Latacunga, Cotopaxi National Park.
This classic Ecuadorian highland drive follows the spine of the Andes from Quito toward Chimborazo, linking a chain of volcanic peaks, market towns, and broad alpine valleys. Expect dramatic snowcapped summits, fertile farmland, and frequent roadside viewpoints in one of South America’s most iconic mountain corridors.
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Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Quito to Latacunga
Historic Center of Quito · American Market at Hotel REEC
Day 2Latacunga and Cotopaxi National Park
Cotopaxi National Park · Saquisilí Market · El Candil Latacunga
Day 3Ambato to Baños de Agua Santa
Pailon del Diablo · Leito's Bakery
Day 4Riobamba and Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve · Restaurante Viento del Oeste
Day 5Riobamba to Alausí / current Devil’s Nose viewpoint
Devil's Nose Viewpoint · Confirmed Alausí hotel meal
Stops along the route
Things to Do
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Where to Eat
Nearby and similar drives
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Avenue of the Volcanoes drive?
The Avenue of the Volcanoes covers about 450 km from start to finish.
How long does the Avenue of the Volcanoes take to drive?
Most travellers spend 5 days on the Avenue of the Volcanoes, depending on stops and pace.
When is the best time to drive the Avenue of the Volcanoes?
The recommended season for the Avenue of the Volcanoes is June-September.
Where does the Avenue of the Volcanoes start and end?
The Avenue of the Volcanoes runs from Quito to Alausí.
What are the main stops on the Avenue of the Volcanoes?
The Avenue of the Volcanoes passes through Quito, Latacunga, Cotopaxi National Park.
How difficult is the Avenue of the Volcanoes to drive?
The Avenue of the Volcanoes is rated moderate and is best handled with any vehicle.
Can I drive the Avenue of the Volcanoes in a regular car?
Yes — the Avenue of the Volcanoes is paved end-to-end and a regular car is fine in normal conditions.
Do I need a permit or border paperwork for the Avenue of the Volcanoes?
Yes — the Avenue of the Volcanoes requires permits, fees, or border paperwork. Plan ahead: Preregister where the protected area requires it and check the same-day IG-EPN bulletin plus Cotopaxi/Chimborazo park status, current entry/exit window and road/refuge restrictions. Add an easy acclimatization day after sea-level arrival; stop ascending and descend for altitude symptoms. Carry warm waterproof layers, sun protection and water, and use a lower-altitude alternative when high refuges, roads or visibility are restricted. Saquisilí market is day-specific and must be date-gated.
How many fuel stops are needed on the Avenue of the Volcanoes?
Plan around 0 refuels (or about 1 EV charges) along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, based on its about 450 km length.
Is the Avenue of the Volcanoes safe to drive?
Preregister where the protected area requires it and check the same-day IG-EPN bulletin plus Cotopaxi/Chimborazo park status, current entry/exit window and road/refuge restrictions. Add an easy acclimatization day after sea-level arrival; stop ascending and descend for altitude symptoms. Carry warm waterproof layers, sun protection and water, and use a lower-altitude alternative when high refuges, roads or visibility are restricted. Saquisilí market is day-specific and must be date-gated.
What scenic tier is the Avenue of the Volcanoes?
The Avenue of the Volcanoes is a iconic drive — Iconic road trips that anchor a region's reputation — postcard scenery, headline highways, and the routes most travellers want to drive.