Running the length of the country and rising to over 6000m (20,000 feet), the Andes dominate the geography and climate of Ecuador, creating a landscape of snow-capped volcanoes, open plateaus and verdant valleys. With an altitude of 2,850m and a pleasant spring-like climate, Quito is the world’s second highest capital city. It has a beautifully renovated Spanish colonial heart with a 16th Century cathedral, central plaza and many museums, galleries and restaurants. To the north lies the town of Otavalo with its vibrant market, farming terraces and exquisite colonial haciendas. Heading south from Quito, the valley of the Avenue of Volcanoes extends 325kms, flanked by farmland and spectacular snow-capped mountains. Cotopaxi Volcano (5,897m) boasts a perfect cone capped with glaciers and snow fields, while the surrounding national park holds a number of high altitude species of birds (including condors), plants and llamas. Hot springs, good walking and rafting can be found at the towns of Papallacta and Banos and in the far south are the beautiful colonial city of Cuenca and the Inca ruins of Ingapirca. Accommodation in this region is mainly in working haciendas and colonial houses.
The Andes
Accommodation Near
The Andes
Dating from the 19th century, the Casa del Aguila is one of the most iconic buildings in Cuenca
Built around a restored 18th century hacienda and set amongst 10 acres of beautiful gardens
A historic working farm situated high amongst magnificent Andean landscapes
Borders one of the most diverse terrestrial environments in the world and is surrounded by its own cloud forest
This lodge is set amongst humid temperate forest on the Interoceania Highway
Located in Ecuador’s upper tropical zone on a ridge in the eastern foothills of the Andes
The best preserved area of cloud forest close to Ecuador’s capital
Quiet and cosy hotel situated close to the centre of the delightful town of Banos in central Ecuador
Located next to the historic La Mariscal district of Quito