Around Andes
Gap Year in Andes Ecuador's Andes are one of the most popular places for tourists in the whole country. Located in the northern central valley between two sub-ranges of the Andes, the city of Quito draws thousands of travelers each year. From Quito, you can make a number of various day trips for hiking and climbing, river rafting, birding, and other active pursuits. The city itself is also a major draw, boasting museums, restaurants, hotels, a gondola ride up the side of a volcano, and a historical colonial district that will transport travelers back in time.
The highland towns of Ibarra, Latacunga, Riobamba and Cuenca also offer fine examples of colonial architecture, while such indigenous towns as Otavalo, Saquisilí, Salasaca and Cañar have famous markets. Still other small towns, like the sub-tropical Baños and Mindo, are favorite weekend or vacation getaways.
One of the most popular trips from Quito is to Ecuador's tallest volcano, known as Chimborazo. Once believed to be the highest peak in South America, its summit is the furthest point on the earth's surface from its center (due to the earth's equatorial bulge). The volcano is stunning to see, and there are a number of day hikes among llamas and vicuña around the lower part of the volcano. For the ambitious climber looking to reach the summit, the glacial peaks will require ice picks and other mountain climbing gear. Guided volcano climbs are available through scores of agencies in Quito