» Monasterio Cistercense Santa Maria del Paraiso: This is the only male monastery in Ecuador, situated on top of a hill with an amazing view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The monks live a simple and austere life, following the rule of Saint Benedict. Visitors can join them for prayers, meditation and silence, or buy some of their handmade products such as cheese, honey and candles.

» Estatua de San Miguel: This is a large statue of Saint Michael the Archangel, patron saint of Salcedo, located in the main square of the city. It was built in 1999 by a local artist and represents the victory of good over evil. The statue is illuminated at night and offers a striking contrast with the dark sky.

» Palacio Municipal: This is the city hall of Salcedo, a beautiful colonial building that dates back to 1890. It has a clock tower and a balcony where the mayor and other authorities address the public on special occasions. The interior of the palace has several paintings and sculptures that depict the history and culture of Salcedo.

» Parque Central: This is the main park of Salcedo, a green oasis in the middle of the city. It has a fountain, a playground, a gazebo and several benches where people can relax and enjoy the fresh air. The park is also surrounded by many shops, restaurants and cafes where visitors can taste some of the local delicacies such as ice cream, cheese and bread.

» Iglesia Matriz de Salcedo: This is the main church of Salcedo, a neoclassical building that was constructed in 1920. It has a white facade with two towers and a dome, and a spacious interior with stained glass windows and paintings. The church hosts several religious ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, such as Easter, Corpus Christi and Christmas.

» Casas Colgadas (Hanging Houses): These are the most emblematic and famous buildings in Cuenca, perched on the edge of a steep cliff overlooking the Huécar River. The houses date back to the 15th century and have been restored to house the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art, which showcases works by renowned artists such as Eduardo Chillida, Antoni Tàpies, and Fernando Zóbel. The museum is open every day except Mondays and has a stunning view of the river gorge from its balconies.

» Catedral de Santa María y San Julián (New Cathedral): This is the largest and most impressive church in Cuenca, located on the main square of Parque Calderón. The cathedral was built between 1885 and 1975 in a neo-Gothic style, with three blue domes that dominate the city skyline. The interior features stained glass windows, marble columns, and a golden altar. The cathedral also has a museum that displays religious art and artifacts.

» Museo Pumapungo: This is one of the most important museums in Ecuador, located on the site of the former Inca palace of Pumapungo (meaning «door of the puma»). The museum exhibits the cultural diversity and history of Ecuador, from pre-Columbian times to the present day. The museum also has a botanical garden that recreates different ecosystems of Ecuador, such as the Amazon rainforest, the Andean highlands, and the coastal region.

» Parque Nacional Cajas: This is a natural paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, located about 30 kilometers west of Cuenca. The park covers an area of 285 square kilometers and has a diverse landscape of lakes, mountains, forests, and moorlands. The park is home to many species of flora and fauna, such as hummingbirds, condors, llamas, and spectacled bears. The park also offers many activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and birdwatching.

» Gualaceo and Chordeleg: These are two charming towns near Cuenca that are famous for their handicrafts and traditions. Gualaceo is known for its textile production, especially shawls and ponchos made from alpaca wool. Chordeleg is known for its jewelry making, especially silver filigree work. Both towns have colorful markets where you can buy souvenirs and local products.

» The Swing at the End of the World: This is one of the most iconic and thrilling attractions in Baños. It is a wooden swing that hangs from a tree house on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the active Tungurahua volcano. You can swing as high as you dare and enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley and the volcano.

» The Devil’s Cauldron: This is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Baños, located about 18 km from the town. It is a 80-meter high waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge, creating a powerful spray and a loud roar. You can hike to the waterfall or take a cable car across the river. You can also walk behind the waterfall and feel its force.

» The Hot Springs: Baños is known for its thermal baths, fed by the volcanic waters of Tungurahua. There are several hot springs in and around the town, each with different temperatures and mineral properties. Some of the most popular ones are La Virgen, El Salado and Santa Clara. The hot springs are a great way to relax and soothe your muscles after a day of adventure.

» The Adventure Activities: Baños is a paradise for adrenaline junkies, offering a variety of activities such as rafting, kayaking, canyoning, zip-lining, bungee jumping, mountain biking and more. You can choose from different levels of difficulty and scenery, depending on your preferences and skills. You can also hire a guide or join a tour to ensure your safety and fun.

» The Church of Our Lady of the Holy Water: This is the main church in Baños, located in the central park. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, who is believed to have performed many miracles in Baños. The church has a beautiful facade and interior, decorated with paintings and sculptures depicting the miracles. You can also visit the museum next to the church, where you can see relics and artifacts related to the history and culture of Baños.

» The Otavalo Market: This is the largest and most colorful market in South America, where you can find a variety of products made by local artisans, such as textiles, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more. The market is open every day, but the best day to go is Saturday, when it expands to cover several streets and plazas.

» The Peguche Waterfall: This is a beautiful waterfall that is located about 3 km from Otavalo. It is a sacred site for the indigenous people, who perform rituals and ceremonies there. You can hike to the waterfall from the town or take a taxi. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a refreshing escape from the heat.

The Cuicocha Lake: This is a stunning crater lake that is situated at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano, about 20 km from Otavalo. The lake has two islands in the middle, which are the remnants of volcanic domes. You can take a boat tour around the lake or hike along the rim of the crater for amazing views.

» The Condor Park: This is a wildlife sanctuary that is dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of birds of prey, especially condors. You can see different species of eagles, hawks, owls, and falcons, as well as learn about their habits and threats. The highlight of the park is the flight show, where you can watch the birds soar in the sky.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the main tourist attractions in Riobamba and why you should visit them.

» Chimborazo Wildlife Production Reserve: This is a protected area that covers the slopes and summit of Chimborazo, the highest mountain in Ecuador and the farthest point from the center of the Earth. Here you can admire the stunning scenery of glaciers, grasslands, and rocky peaks, as well as encounter unique wildlife such as vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and condors. You can also visit the last ice maker of Chimborazo, a man who still collects ice from the mountain and sells it in the local market.

» Sangay National Park: This is another protected area that encompasses three active volcanoes: Sangay, Tungurahua, and El Altar. The park is home to diverse ecosystems and habitats, ranging from tropical rainforests to high-altitude paramos. You can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park and enjoy its natural wonders, such as waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and hot springs.

» Devil’s Nose Train: This is one of the most thrilling and scenic train rides in the world. The train descends from Alausi to Sibambe along a zigzagging track that cuts through steep cliffs and ravines. The train offers panoramic views of the Andean landscape and its cultural heritage, such as indigenous villages, farms, and archaeological sites.

» Museum of the Convent of the Conception: This is a museum that showcases the history and art of the Conceptionist nuns who have lived in Riobamba since 1599. The museum displays religious paintings, sculptures, textiles, and artifacts that reflect the colonial and republican periods of Ecuador. You can also visit the convent’s church, which has a neoclassical architecture and a beautiful altar.

» Riobamba Train Station: This is a historical building that was built in 1902 as part of the Trans-Andean Railway project. The station is a symbol of Riobamba’s importance as a transportation hub and a cultural center. You can learn more about the history of the railway and its impact on Ecuador’s development at the station’s museum. You can also board the train to various destinations from here, such as Guayaquil, Cuenca, Quito, and more.

These are just some of the main tourist attractions in Riobamba that you can enjoy during your visit. Riobamba is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are interested in culture, nature, or adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of Ecuador’s hidden gems!

» Hiking and climbing: Carihuairazo has two main peaks, Maxima and Minima, that can be reached by hiking or climbing. The trails are well-marked and offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The difficulty level varies depending on the route and the weather conditions, but it is recommended to have some experience and proper equipment before attempting this challenge. You can also hire a local guide to help you along the way.

» Camping and stargazing: If you want to spend a night under the stars, you can camp at the base of Carihuairazo or near one of the lakes that dot its slopes. The area is known for its clear skies and low light pollution, making it ideal for stargazing and observing the Milky Way. You can also enjoy the sunrise and sunset from your tent, as well as the wildlife and flora that inhabit the region.

» Horseback riding and biking: Another way to explore Carihuairazo is by horseback or bike. You can rent a horse or a bike from one of the nearby towns or villages and follow the trails that lead to the volcano. You will pass by fields, forests, rivers, and waterfalls, as well as local communities that welcome visitors with their hospitality and culture. You can also join a guided tour that will take you to the best spots and tell you more about the history and legends of Carihuairazo.

» Thermal baths and spas: After a day of adventure, you can relax and rejuvenate at one of the thermal baths or spas that are located near Carihuairazo. The water is heated by the volcanic activity and has therapeutic properties for your skin and muscles. You can choose from natural pools or modern facilities that offer massages, saunas, jacuzzis, and other services. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and drinks at the restaurants and bars that cater to tourists.

Carihuairazo is a hidden gem in Ecuador that deserves to be discovered by more travelers. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, or adrenaline, you will find something to suit your taste in this amazing destination.

The Chimborazo Reserve covers an area of 58,560 hectares and protects a variety of wildlife, especially the vicuñas, which are endangered relatives of llamas and alpacas. You can also see other animals such as deer, rabbits, foxes, condors and hummingbirds. The reserve also has a rich cultural heritage, as it was inhabited by ancient civilizations such as the Puruháes and the Incas.

One of the main attractions of the reserve is, of course, the Chimborazo volcano itself. This colossal peak reaches 6,310 meters above sea level and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape. You can hike or bike to one of the two refuges on its slopes: Carrel Refuge at 4,800 meters and Whymper Refuge at 5,000 meters. From there, you can admire the glaciers and snowfields that cover the summit. If you are an experienced mountaineer, you can also attempt to climb to the top, but you will need a guide and proper equipment.

Another attraction of the reserve is the Sangay National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park contains three active volcanoes: Sangay, Tungurahua and El Altar. It also has diverse ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to high-altitude grasslands. You can explore the park by hiking, horseback riding or rafting on its rivers. You can also visit some of its attractions such as waterfalls, lakes and hot springs.

The capital of Chimborazo province is Riobamba, a charming city with colonial architecture and cultural attractions. You can visit its museums, churches and markets, where you can buy handicrafts and taste local delicacies such as hornado (roasted pork) and ceviche de chochos (a salad made with lupin beans). Riobamba is also a good base for exploring other nearby destinations such as Alausí, where you can take a train ride along the famous Devil’s Nose route.

As you can see, Chimborazo Reserve has a lot to offer to visitors who love nature, adventure and culture. If you want to discover this amazing place, you can book a tour with PlanetAndes or plan your own itinerary with Ecuador Travel. Either way, you will have an unforgettable experience in one of Ecuador’s most beautiful regions.

Limpiopungo Lagoon
This is a beautiful lake located at the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano, surrounded by grasslands and mountains. It is a great place to admire the scenery, observe wildlife such as birds, horses and llamas, and take a leisurely walk along the shore. The lagoon is about 4 km from the park entrance and can be reached by car or bike.

Rumiñahui Volcano
This is an inactive volcano that offers stunning views of the Cotopaxi Volcano and the Limpiopungo Lagoon. It has three peaks: the highest one is 4,721 meters above sea level and requires a challenging hike of about 5 hours round trip. The other two peaks are lower and easier to reach. You can also explore the volcanic crater and see some interesting rock formations.

Horseback Riding
One of the best ways to experience the beauty and diversity of Cotopaxi National Park is by riding a horse. You can join a guided tour that will take you through different landscapes, such as forests, grasslands, hills and valleys. You can also see some historical sites, such as ancient Inca ruins and colonial haciendas. Horseback riding tours are available for all levels of experience and can last from a few hours to several days.

Biking
Another fun and adventurous way to explore Cotopaxi National Park is by biking. You can rent a bike at the park entrance or bring your own and follow one of the many trails that crisscross the park. You can bike around the Limpiopungo Lagoon, along the slopes of the Rumiñahui Volcano, or even down from the Cotopaxi Volcano if you are feeling brave. Biking tours are also available with guides and equipment.

José Rivas Refuge
This is a cozy mountain lodge located at 4,864 meters above sea level on the side of the Cotopaxi Volcano. It is the base camp for climbers who want to reach the summit of the volcano, but it is also open to visitors who just want to enjoy the views and atmosphere. You can hike up to the refuge from the parking lot in about an hour or take a 4WD vehicle. The refuge has dormitories, bathrooms, a kitchen and a dining room.

Climbing Cotopaxi Volcano
If you are looking for a challenge and an unforgettable experience, you can try to climb to the top of Cotopaxi Volcano. It is not an easy feat, as it requires physical fitness, acclimatization, proper equipment and a certified guide. The climb usually starts at midnight from the José Rivas Refuge and takes about 6 hours to reach the summit at 5,897 meters above sea level. From there, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the crater, the glaciers and the surrounding mountains.

Interpretation Center
This is a small museum located near the park entrance that provides information about the history, geology, ecology and culture of Cotopaxi National Park. It has exhibits, maps, photos and videos that explain the features and attractions of the park. It also has a souvenir shop where you can buy some local handicrafts.

Sunfana Lookout
This is a viewpoint located on a hill near the Interpretation Center that offers a panoramic view of the park and its volcanoes. It is a good spot to take pictures, relax and enjoy nature. You can walk up to the lookout from the Interpretation Center or drive up to a nearby parking lot.

» Quitsato Sundial: This is a giant sundial that marks the exact location of the equator, and also serves as a cultural and educational center. You can learn about the astronomical knowledge of the ancient Andean civilizations, and observe how the sun casts different shadows depending on the season and time of day. The sundial is open every day from 8 am to 6 pm, and admission is $2 per person.

» Hacienda La Jesus: This is a historical farm that dates back to the colonial era, and offers a glimpse into the rural life and traditions of Cayambe. You can enjoy a guided tour of the farm, see how cheese and other dairy products are made, visit a rose plantation, and interact with animals such as llamas, alpacas and horses. The farm is open on Saturdays from 9 am to 2 pm, and on Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm.

» Cayambe Coca National Park: This is one of the largest and most diverse national parks in Ecuador, covering an area of over 4000 square kilometers. The park encompasses several habitats, such as paramo, cloud forest, rainforest and glacier. You can explore the park by hiking, biking, horseback riding or kayaking, and admire the stunning scenery of lakes, waterfalls, rivers and mountains. Some of the highlights of the park include the snow-capped Cayambe volcano, which is popular among climbers; Lake Puruhanta, which has trails, camping facilities and ancient ruins; and Lake San Marcos, which is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

» The Historic Center: This is the largest and best-preserved colonial center in Latin America, with many churches, museums, plazas, and monuments. You can admire the architecture, art, and history of Quito in places like the Cathedral, the Basilica of the National Vow, the Church of San Francisco, the Plaza de la Independencia, and the Palace of Carondelet.

» The Middle of the World: This is a complex that marks the location of the equator, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. You can also visit the Intiñan Museum, which showcases the culture and traditions of the indigenous people of Ecuador, as well as some experiments that demonstrate the effects of being on the equator.

» The Teleférico: This is a cable car that takes you to the top of Pichincha volcano, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Quito and its surroundings. You can also hike or bike on the trails, or visit the amusement park and the botanical garden.

» The La Carolina Park: This is a large urban park that offers many activities for visitors of all ages. You can walk, jog, bike, skate, or play sports on its paths and fields. You can also visit the Vivarium, which displays reptiles and amphibians from Ecuador, or the Botanical Garden, which has a collection of plants from different regions of the country.

» The Guayasamín Museum: This is a museum that displays the works of Oswaldo Guayasamín, one of the most famous and influential Ecuadorian artists. You can see his paintings, sculptures, and murals that reflect his social and political views. You can also visit his house and studio, which are preserved as they were when he lived there.