Riobamba is the capital of the Chimborazo province in Ecuador, known as the ‘Sultan of the Andes.’ This city, nestled in a valley surrounded by numerous mountains and volcanoes with snow-capped peaks, might not boast many exceptional attractions, but it’s worth including it in your journey through Ecuador. Riobamba serves as the gateway to the impressive Chimborazo volcano, the country’s highest peak, and one of South America’s renowned train rides: El Nariz del Diablo. In this article, you’ll find my tips for things to do in Riobamba Ecuador and its surroundings, places to stay, best time to visit and how to get there.
Welcome to Riobamba Ecuador
Riobamba is the capital of the province and one of the largest and most densely populated cities in the Andes of Ecuador. The Chimborazo province is at the heart of the indigenous community, evident in the people often seen wearing traditional clothing with distinctive hats. The city was devastated by an earthquake in 1797, leading to its complete destruction. When rebuilt, Riobamba was relocated fourteen kilometers away from its original location. As a result, the provincial capital lacks a large colonial center, similar to Quito or Cuenca, but it is laid out in a typical grid pattern.
Riobamba is renowned for its significance in the transportation and trade of agricultural products from the surrounding areas. Locals from nearby villages come to Riobamba daily to sell their goods, and numerous tourists visit the city to explore the Andean surroundings.
Things to do in Riobamba Ecuador – 10 tips
Explore the center of Riobamba and its things to do
While Riobamba may not be known as Ecuador’s most beautiful city with countless things to do, it is still interesting to stroll through the center and visit one of the fifteen different churches, such as the cathedral and the Basilica, Ecuador’s only round church. Take a moment to relax in the central square, Parque Maldonado, and Parque la Libertad, taking in the local atmosphere.
Chimborazo volcano – top things to do in Riobamba Ecuador
One of the main reasons to visit Riobamba in Ecuador is the Chimborazo volcano. On a clear day, the snow-capped summit of the volcano rises above Riobamba and is visible throughout the city. The Chimborazo volcano, standing at 6263 meters, is the highest peak in Ecuador. The good news is that you can easily visit this volcano, and there are many tours available. Below are some tips for climbing and experiencing Chimborazo volcano, one of the best things to do in Riobamba Ecuador.
Hiking to 5000 meters
You can drive all the way to 4800 meters by car. From there, you can embark on a short hike to 5000 meters, a challenging trek due to the altitude. It is therefore crucial to take it easy and allow plenty of time. While the elevation gain is only 200 meters, the hike takes about an hour. Once at the top, you’ll be able to gaze at the summit with your feet in the snow. Since you follow the same path up and down, you can also decide to only hike halfway and return. If you’re not up for a walk, you can still enjoy beautiful views at 4800 meters, and with luck, spot vicuñas. There is a small cafeteria to grab a bite or have a drink.
Always bring warm clothing and sufficient water. Despite the sun shining, you’re at an altitude of 4800 meters, resulting in lower temperatures. Additionally, mountain weather can change rapidly.
If you wish to climb the Chimborazo volcano, you can book a tour here. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to 4800 meters by yourself. Admission is free.
Cycling
Another fantastic way to experience the Chimborazo volcano is through a cycling tour. Starting from 4800 meters, you’ll bike through the Chimborazo National Park downhill, providing a unique perspective of the landscape.
If you want to climb Chimborazo and also go on a cycling tour, you can find a tour here. Curious to learn more? In the next article, you can read more about the Chimborazo volcano in Ecuador, including my tips to visit.
Market day Riobamba Ecuador
Every Saturday, Riobamba in Ecuador hosts a large market. Local people, often dressed in colorful traditional attire, come from far and wide to sell their goods. You’ll find textiles, ponchos, hats, vegetables, fruits, and an abundance of food. The market surrounds the San Alfonso Market.
Every Thursday, a large local market takes place in Guamote, a small village located 50 kilometers from Riobamba. It features animals, textiles, vegetables, and fruits. It is a great way to observe local life.
Devil’s Nose Train Ride – famous things to do in Riobamba Ecuador
Another highlight and one of the famous things to do in the Riobamba area is the train ride ‘Nariz del Diablo’ (the Devil’s Nose) in Ecuador. The railway was opened in 1908, running from Quito through Riobamba to Durán, on the coast near Guayaquil. Due to El Niño, a significant portion of the track was destroyed, leaving only the stretch between Riobamba and ‘El Nariz del Diablo’ intact. Today, this route is mainly traveled by tourists, featuring steep gradients of up to 5.5% and stunning views. It’s a spectacular journey that zigzags and changes direction at certain points, with the entire trip taking about 2.5 hours, including photo stops.
Note: At present, the Nariz Del Diablo train ride is closed until further notice.
Visit the oldest church in Ecuador
If you’re passing through the Chimborazo province in Ecuador, be sure to stop at Iglesia de La Balbanera, a fifteen-minute drive from Riobamba. Established in the 16th century, this church is the oldest in the country. You can enjoy a drink in the adjacent cafeteria, and in the square in front of the church, you’ll encounter vendors selling products made from the tagua nut, which I will tell you more about below. Also, cross the road to find numerous stalls with spit-roasted guinea pigs.
Explore the Calpi Cattle Market
If you’re in Riobamba, Ecuador on a Saturday, one of the best things to do is to visit to the Calpi cattle market, located twenty minutes outside the city. The Feria de Ganado (Plaza de Rastro) is a bustling place where you’ll be overwhelmed by sights and sounds. Cars with pigs and cows navigate through large crowds of people and animals. Women in traditional attire, interspersed with men in oversized tracksuits, drag around bulls, piglets, sheep, and other livestock. Be mentally prepared for some animal distress though. I sometimes find it to hard to see, but realize at the same time that this is a part of daily life in the Andes, a world that we are only visiting for a bit of time.
Discover the Tagua Nut
Riobamba in Ecuador and its surroundings are known for processing the tagua nut, also called natural ivory. This nut comes from the tagua palm and, upon exposure to air, acquires an appearance similar to ivory. It is used to create jewelry, chess pieces, and figurines. You can purchase tagua nut products at different markets in the city.
Mini Travel Guide Riobamba Ecuador
Hotels in Riobamba Ecuador
One of the best things to do when you are in Riobamba is to stay at Hacienda Abraspungo, a boutique hotel located in the Guano Valley in Ecuador. This old hacienda has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, surrounded by greenery, flowers, and singing birds. The hacienda is spacious, featuring different rooms named after the many mountains and volcanoes in Ecuador, a stylish restaurant, and sitting areas in and around the garden.
The rooms are elegantly and comfortably furnished, equipped with all the amenities you need. From your balcony or terrace, you can enjoy views of the green surroundings with numerous flowers and plants. Plus, you’re less than an hour’s drive from the entrance to the Chimborazo National Park.
Curious about Hacienda Abraspungo? Here you can find prices and availability. Looking for more hotels in Riobamba? This is an overview. Curious to know more? In the next article, you’ll read more about staying at Hacienda Abraspungo.
Tips for tours and things to do in Riobamba Ecuador
These are my tips for tours and more things to do in Riobamba, Ecuador.
Best time to visit Riobamba Ecuador
Situated at an altitude of 2800 meters in the Andes, the best time to visit Riobamba, Ecuador is from June to September, when there is little rainfall. The days are often sunny, but the evenings can be quite cool. It is recommended to wear layers so you can adapt to the weather throughout the day. Outside these months, there is usually rain in the afternoon, although the temperatures are slightly higher. The highest average temperature in Riobamba is around 14°C in November. If you plan to visit the Chimborazo volcano, always bring warm clothes, including a hat, scarf, and gloves.
How to reach Riobamba in Ecuador
Riobamba is the capital of the Chimborazo province and has bus connections to almost all major cities and things to do in Ecuador. Looking for transportation in Ecuador? Search and book on Bookaway, which instantly finds the best itinerary for you. You can reach Baños within 1.5 hours, Quito in 4 hours, and Cuenca in 5 to 6 hours. To explore the surroundings, one of the possible things to do is go on a tour or rent a car and venture out on your own. Taxis are also available in and around the city.
Travel by bus or shuttle
Looking for a way to get around in Ecuador by bus or minivan? Use Bookaway, to find and book the best connection for you.
Car rental
Looking for a rental car for your trip to Ecuador? Use Rental Cars to search and compare your car rental options. A quick and easy tool and no need to have up multiple tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. They also have great discounts and cancellation policies.
Book a flight
Looking for flights to travel to the South of Ecuador, Amazon or Galapagos Islands? Use Skyscanner, when it comes to searching for cheap flights across Ecuador. An easy way to compare and book your flight ticket, as it searches websites and airlines around the world with one click.
Travel Insurance
Looking for a travel insurance? World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance, with coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.”
More hotels in Ecuador
In every country I look out for the most beautiful and unique places to stay. A boutique atmosphere, a stylish design, a lovely setting, and a good service are important topics for me, when choosing a hotel. In addition, I like to support the locals and love a sustainable approach around a hotel. Are you curious about my favorite hotels in Ecuador? In the next article you will find an overview of the best boutique hotels in Ecuador, where I personally stayed.
More about Ecuador
Did you enjoy reading this article with things to do in Riobamba Ecuador? Let me take you on a journey along the most beautiful destinations and places to visit Ecuador. In the next articles you will find my Ecuador travel guides with lots of inspiration and tips.
- Things to do in Ecuador – 30 destinations and tips
- Things to do in Quito Ecuador | The ultimate travel guide with 30 tips for your stay
- Best boutique hotels and lodges in Ecuador – 13 tips
- Galapagos Islands Ecuador – everything you want to know about a trip and cruise
- Things to do in Baños Ecuador – full city guide with tips
- Best things to do in Cuenca Ecuador – full city guide with 15 tips
- Mashpi Lodge Ecuador – Everything you want to know
- Chimborazo volcano Ecuador – tips for a visit and climb
- Things to do in Otavalo Ecuador – A comprehensive travel guide
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