Central Highlands
Traveling along the Pan-American Highway south from Quito
brings you into the Avenue of Volcanoes named for the many towering peaks
surrounding you on both sides. This
area is a mountaineer’s heaven with a large number of
Andes
Peaks within a close vicinity. Two
of Ecuador’s highest peaks are located in this region
Cotopaxi the highest
active volcano in the world, and Chimborazo the highest peak in Ecuador. This region is also home to the gentle countryside of traditional
farmers, famous artisans like those in Tigua, National Parks, and some of the
most incredible Haciendas in the country.
AmbatoKnown as the city of Flowers and Fruit, Ambato is the 4th largest city in the
country. Located approximately 2 1/2 hours south of Quito along the Pan-American
Highway. Ambato is a new city compared to many of the other city and towns
of the Sierras the old city was destroyed in 1949 by an earthquake.
Ambato is frequently considered a
stopover point. It is the juncture
for many destinations in the country. Quito and the Northern Andes is the
road to the North, Baños and the Amazon is the road to the east, Cuenca
and the Southern Andes is the road to the south and Guayaquil and the coast is
the road to the south. Ambato also offers climbers a place to provision
before heading out to climb Sangay, Altar, Tungurahua or Chimborazo.
Perhaps due to its location Ambato seems less like a tourist destination and
more like somewhere to get on about your business. Those visiting Ambato
have the opportunity to view their market on Mondays in the central plaza.
This market is far less touristy than the one in Otavalo. Though excellent
handicraft items are still available. Here woven goods created by the
local Salasaca Indians include some of the best wool blankets, and ponchos in
the country.
Over the years the sub-tropical Baños has become a favorite tourist
destination in Ecuador. Known for its hot springs the town has long been
considered a holiday resort, once only serving the elite of Ecuador who would
travel for days to arrive in this picturesque setting of a lovely warm valley
surrounded by green mountains. They came to be rejuvenated by the natural
springs heated by neighboring Tungurahua Volcano. Today both national and
international visitors travel to Baños seeking not just the warm weather and
hot springs but the area has become the Mecca for adventure seekers in Ecuador.
Baños
Baños location has established it as a crossroads. Close to the Amazon
and close to some of the best climbing in the country. Numerous companies offer
visitors every imaginable opportunity to explore the countryside from jeep
tours, mountaineering, jungle treks, mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding to
name a few.
Visitors find that this small town has much to offer. Many of the early
settlers were foreigners and the restaurants here still reflect the
international influence. Just off the main square it is possible to get
some of the best fresh baked goods in the country, or enjoy a delicious vegetarian
or French meal.
Whatever you decide to do during your visit don't miss relaxing in one of the
hot springs. The Baños de la Virgin across from the Hotel Sangay is one
of the more visited springs in the area. Those visitors willing to take
the time to visit one of the springs outside town will appreciate the journey.
Not only will there be fewer bathers in the springs but most of the springs
offer spectacular views.
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