Explore Chimborazo: Incredible Activities in the Heart of the Andes
Adventure at Chimborazo Volcano
Chimborazo Volcano, with an altitude of 6,263 meters, is the jewel of the province and an icon of Ecuadorian Andes.
· Trekking to the Carrel and Whymper Refuges: You can embark on a hike from the Carrel Refuge (4,850 m) to the Whymper Refuge (5,100 m). Along the way, admire the spectacular landscapes of the páramo and spot vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas.
· Chimborazo Faunal Production Reserve: The area surrounding the volcano is protected and offers ideal trails for birdwatching and hikes through the páramo.
· Climbing to the Summit: For experienced mountaineers, the ascent of Chimborazo is an incomparable challenge, with views that stretch all the way to the horizon of Ecuador.
The Devil’s Nose in Alausí
Located in the picturesque town of Alausí, the Devil’s Nose is a marvel of railway engineering.
· Train Ride: Travel through the zigzags and steep slopes of this historic railway route. During the trip, enjoy stunning views of canyons and mountains.
· Local Culture: Alausí is also a charming destination to explore. Its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and local markets reflect the warmth of its people.
Cultural Experience in Riobamba
Riobamba, known as the "Sultana of the Andes", is the capital of the province and a center of history and tradition.
· Museums and Architecture: Visit the Museum of Religious Art of La Concepción and the Riobamba Cathedral to learn more about the region’s religious and cultural history.
· Traditional Markets: The La Merced Market is perfect for tasting typical dishes like hornado or purchasing local handicrafts.
· Fairs and Festivals: If you visit in February or March, you can enjoy the Riobamba Carnival, a celebration full of music, dance, and traditions.
Nature Tourism at the Ozogoche Lagoons
This impressive system of 45 lagoons, located in the Sangay National Park, is a mystical place full of natural beauty.
· Hiking: Explore the trails around the lagoons and enjoy views that seem straight out of a storybook.
· Migratory Bird Ritual: The lagoons are famous for the phenomenon of "suicidal migration," where birds arrive and die in their waters, an event that local indigenous communities consider sacred.
Community Visits and Experiential Tourism
Chimborazo is home to indigenous communities that preserve their traditions and are open to sharing them with visitors.
· Guano: This town near Riobamba is known for its handcrafted carpets made with traditional techniques. You can visit workshops and learn about this art.
· Turi Kuntur: Immerse yourself in the indigenous worldview by participating in ancestral ceremonies, pottery workshops, and visits to traditional crops.
Outdoor Sports and Adventure
Chimborazo offers many options for those seeking adrenaline.
· Mountain Biking: Ride down from the Chimborazo refuges, enjoying panoramic views and challenging the Andean terrain.
· Rock Climbing and Trekking: Explore trails around Penipe and Guano, where nature blends with adventure.
· Birdwatching: The province is a paradise for ornithologists, with emblematic species inhabiting the páramos and forests.
Typical Flavors of Chimborazo
You can’t visit Chimborazo without enjoying its rich gastronomy.
· Horno Riobambeño: Slow-cooked pork served with mote, potato tortillas, and ají.
· Chugchucaras: A traditional dish that combines fried pork, mote, ripe plantain, empanadas, and toasted corn.
· Cuy Asado: A delicious Andean dish you must try in local communities.
· Canelazo: Warm your nights with this drink made from aguardiente, cinnamon, and fruit juice.
Charming Towns to Explore
In addition to Riobamba, Chimborazo is home to picturesque towns filled with history and culture.
· Guano: Known as the "Craft Capital of Ecuador," this town is famous for its textiles and leather products.
· Alausí: Its tranquil atmosphere, combined with colonial architecture, makes it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the local culture.
· Chambo: This small town is famous for its cheese, a delicacy you can buy directly from the producers.
Chimborazo, one of the most fascinating provinces of Ecuador, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking stunning nature, ancestral culture, and unique adventures. Home to the colossal Chimborazo Volcano, this corner of the Ecuadorian Andes offers experiences that will delight adventurers, history lovers, and explorers alike.
