The
intrepid German
explorer and
naturalist,
Alexander
von Humboldt
[1769–1859],
climber of
many of Ecuador's
tallest mountains
and holder
of the world
climbing record
for 30 years,
named the
twin range
of mountains
running from
Quito
to Cuenca,
the “Avenue
of Volcanoes.”
The description
is apt and
the name stuck.
Travellers
going south
from Quito
by road or
train eagerly
strain their
eyes and stretch
their necks
for views
of these fabulous
mountains.
On very clear
days, one
can see nine
of Ecuador's
10 highest
peaks, though
most people
will be happy
to spot Chimborazo
looming in
the distance.
Many people
are disappointed
because the
peaks have
a habit of
cloaking themselves
in drifting
white clouds.
Nevertheless,
you will see
much stunning
scenery in
the Central
Highlands
along with
picturesque
colonial towns,
feisty festivals
and multifarious
markets.
Last
updated 4th
July 2006
| |Article contributed by Dominic Hamilton||| |
