On our way to the Colombian border, we explored the breathtaking “Avenue of Volcanoes,” a region that stretches 300 km south of Quito. This dramatic landscape is home to some of Ecuador’s most impressive peaks, with several volcanoes soaring between 5,000 and 6,000 meters. Ecuador itself boasts an astonishing 36 active volcanoes. We were fortunate to have clear views of Cotopaxi, standing at 5,897 meters, its snow-capped summit gleaming in the sunlight.
Quito, the world’s highest capital city, is perched on the slopes of the Pichincha volcano. It features the largest and best-preserved historic center in Latin America, a true cultural and architectural treasure. Just 26 km north of the city lies the Equator, marked at Calacalí. We spent the night in the car park of the unofficial equator monument at La Mitad del Mundo—Ecuador’s “fake” equator line.
The next morning, we set off for Finca Sommerwind, where we celebrated Christmas and New Year with overlander friends from around the world. It was the perfect place to relax and share stories before continuing our journey.