If you are looking for a unique and adventurous destination in Ecuador, you might want to consider visiting the Chimborazo Reserve. This reserve is home to the Chimborazo volcano, the highest mountain in Ecuador and the farthest point from the center of the Earth. In this blog post, we will tell you what are the main tourist attractions in Chimborazo Reserve and how to enjoy them.
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.