Guaranda - Discovering Ecuador

Travelling to Guaranda

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Guaranda, a pretty good destination in Ecuador (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Guaranda and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Guaranda, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ecuador, here's everything to know about Guaranda for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Guaranda

Guaranda is a small city located in the central Andean region of Ecuador, at an altitude of around 2,650 meters above sea level. It is the capital of Bolívar Province and also known as the "City of the Seven Hills" due to its unique topography. Guaranda is known for its colorful Carnaval de Guaranda, a major festival in Ecuador that takes place annually. The city also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, traditional architecture, and a variety of activities such as hiking, trekking, and exploring the local markets.

What to visit in Guaranda

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Guaranda, Ecuador: 1. Guaranda Historic Center: The historic center of Guaranda is the heart of the city and is known for its colorful colonial architecture, quaint streets, and lively atmosphere. It's a great place to explore on foot and soak in the local culture.
2. Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve: The Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve is a protected area that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including llamas, alpacas, condors, and more. Visitors can go on guided hikes to explore the area and admire the incredible views.
3. Salinas de Guaranda: Salinas de Guaranda is a small community located just outside of the city that is known for its cheese production. Visitors can see the cheese-making process and sample some of the delicious products.
4. Carnaval de Guaranda: The Carnaval de Guaranda is a vibrant annual festival that takes place during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday. It's a time of colorful parades, music, dancing, and general revelry.
5. La Mama Negra: La Mama Negra is a famous local legend and cultural icon in the city of Guaranda. Every year during the festival of the same name, a man dresses up as La Mama Negra and parades through the streets, symbolizing the city's history and traditions.
6. San Pedro de Guanujo Church: The San Pedro de Guanujo Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located just outside of Guaranda. It features stunning architecture and artwork, and is a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.
7. Mirador de Guaranda: Mirador de Guaranda is a lookout point that offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. It's a great spot for photography and getting a sense of the local geography. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Guaranda, Ecuador!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ecuador, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Guaranda

The best time to visit Guaranda is during the dry season, which usually runs from June to September. During these months, the climate is generally sunny and pleasant, which makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, Guaranda hosts a number of festivals during this time of the year, including the famous "Carnaval de Guaranda" which takes place in February. However, if you don't mind a bit of rain, the wet season from October to May can also be a good time to visit as the countryside is greener and more vibrant due to the rains.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Guaranda

There are several ways to get to Guaranda, Ecuador: 1. By bus: You can take a bus from Quito or Guayaquil to Guaranda. The journey from Quito takes around 5-6 hours, while the journey from Guayaquil takes around 7-8 hours.
2. By car: You can rent a car and drive to Guaranda. The journey from Quito takes around 3-4 hours, while the journey from Guayaquil takes around 5-6 hours.
3. By plane: There is no airport in Guaranda, but you can fly to Quito or Guayaquil and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Guaranda.
4. By taxi: You can hire a taxi in Quito or Guayaquil to take you to Guaranda. This is a convenient option if you are traveling with a small group of people.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Guaranda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Guaranda

Sure, here are some typical foods of Guaranda and their descriptions: 1. Hornado: Roasted pork with crispy skin, often served with llapingachos (potato patties) and mote (hominy corn).
2. Churrasco: Grilled beef served with rice, French fries, and a fried egg on top.
3. Fanesca: A traditional soup made with grains, beans, milk, and pumpkin, served during Holy Week celebrations.
4. Tamales: Steamed corn dough rolled around fillings of meat, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in a banana leaf.
5. Cuy asado: Grilled or roasted guinea pig, a delicacy in the Andean region of Ecuador, served with potatoes and aji sauce.
6. Empanadas de viento: Fried empanadas stuffed with cheese and served with a sprinkle of sugar on top.
7. Espumilla: A sweet meringue made with guava pulp and sugar, often eaten as a dessert or snack.
8. Helados de Paila: A type of ice cream that is made by freezing a mixture of fruit pulp, sugar, and water on a large metal pan.
9. Locro: A hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, corn, and avocado, often served with popcorn on top.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Guaranda!
You can find general info about typical foods in Ecuador here.

Is Guaranda an expensive destination for tourists?

Guaranda is generally considered an affordable destination for travelers. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities are generally lower than in larger cities in Ecuador. However, as with any destination, the cost of travel depends on the type of accommodation, dining, and activities you choose. It is recommended to do some research and make a budget plan before traveling to ensure you have enough funds for your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Guaranda

Guaranda is a small city in Ecuador and has several areas where you can find accommodation. Some of the popular areas to stay in Guaranda are the city center, San Ignacio neighborhood, and near the Guaranda-Los Álamos Highway. The city center is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the city's main attractions, such as the Cathedral, the Municipal Palace, and the Bolivar Park. The San Ignacio neighborhood is also a good option as it is a quiet residential area and has easy access to the city center. Near Guaranda-Los Álamos Highway, you can find many hotels and lodges that offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
You can check hotel prices at Guaranda here:
Booking.com

Is Guaranda a safe destination for tourists?

Guaranda is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any city, it is still important to take common-sense precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuable belongings secure. It is also a good idea to research and follow local customs and dress respectfully, especially if you plan on visiting any cultural or religious sites. Overall, Guaranda is a beautiful and culturally rich city, and most visitors to the area have an enjoyable and safe experience.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ecuador here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Guaranda.

What type of travelers will enjoy Guaranda the most?

Guaranda, Ecuador is a great place for families and couples looking for an enriching cultural experience. This charming city is known for its vibrant Carnival celebration and a variety of traditional festivals throughout the year, making it an exciting destination for those who enjoy cultural festivities. Visitors who enjoy exploring historic sites and museums will also enjoy exploring Guaranda's colonial architecture and museums. However, it may not be the best destination for young people seeking nightlife and parties, as the city is relatively quiet in the evenings. Overall, Guaranda is a great destination for those who want to immerse themselves in Ecuadorian culture and history.

How to get around Guaranda

In Guaranda, you can move around using taxis, buses or by walking. Taxis are widely available and relatively affordable, but make sure to negotiate the fare before getting in. Buses are a cheaper option and have fixed routes, but they can be crowded and not always reliable. Walking is a great way to discover the charming streets and architecture of Guaranda, but keep in mind that the city is located in the Andes Mountains, so some areas can be steep and challenging to walk.

What to see around Guaranda

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Guaranda: 1. Chimborazo: This is the highest mountain in Ecuador and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
2. Salinas de Bolivar: A small town famous for its delicious chocolate, which is made following traditional recipes.
3. San Gabriel Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located about an hour from Guaranda, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
4. Ingapirca: An ancient Incan ruin site located outside of Cuenca, with impressive architectural remains and a fascinating history.
5. La Paz Waterfall: A stunning set of waterfalls in the province of Cotopaxi, known for its crystal-clear pools and lush vegetation.
6. Casa Museo Julio García: This museum in the village of San Antonio de Ibarra is dedicated to the life and work of Ecuadorian master carver Julio Garcia, and showcases some of his incredible wooden sculptures.
7. Cuenca: This colonial city is Ecuador's third-largest city and has a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant culture. I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Ecuador you can click here.

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