The Ecuadorian Andes are the only site on the planet where the Equatorial Line crosses over highlands.Alexander Humboldt journeyed the Ecuadorian Andes and its valleys in 1802, naming them “The Avenue of the Volcanoes”. Humboldt believed that he had reached the highest point in the world when he attempted to climb Mt. Chimborazo (20,702 ft), since the Himalayas were still unknown in Europe at the time.The most important mountains in the area are:
| Chimborazo: | 20,702 ft (6310 m) |
| Cotopaxi: | 19,347 ft (5897 m) |
| Cayambe: | 18,996 ft (5790 m) |
| Antisana: | 18,891 ft (5758 m) |
| Altar: | 17,454 ft (5320 m) |
| Illiniza: | 17,218 ft (5248 m) |
| Tungurahua: | 16,480 ft (5023 m) |
| Cotacahi: | 16,220 ft (4.944 m) |
Throughout the Andes mountain range, you will find impressive plateaus, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs, cloud forests, valleys, indigenous markets, picturesque villages, and historical and modern cities.
In addition to this enchanting panorama, a number of haciendas dating back to colonial times can be found along the “Avenue of the Volcanoes”.
