Andean Highlands Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and travel tips for your trip to Andean Highlands in Ecuador.


Introduction to Andean Highlands

Andean Highlands is one of the most stunning regions of Ecuador, located in the northern part of the Andes mountain range. Known for its breathtaking natural scenery, rich indigenous culture, and charming colonial towns, it is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and history buffs.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through all the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and practical travel tips for your trip to Andean Highlands in Ecuador.

List of Places to Visit in Andean Highlands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo del Banco Central: Located in Quito, this museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian and colonial-era art, including ceramic figures, gold masks, and religious artifacts.
  • Ingapirca: This Incan site is the most important archaeological complex in Ecuador, featuring ruins of ancient temples, courtyards, and a sun temple.
  • Cuenca: This charming colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning architecture, colorful markets, and vibrant cultural scene.

Natural Attractions of Andean Highlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cotopaxi National Park: This park is home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, as well as a diverse range of wildlife, including llamas, Andean foxes, and Andean condors. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the park.
  • Quilotoa Lagoon: This stunning emerald-green crater lake is a popular hiking destination, offering breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.
  • Baños: This charming town is the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, offering a range of adventurous activities, such as zip-lining, white-water rafting, and canyoning.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Andean Highlands

  • Quilotoa Loop: This popular hiking trail takes you through the Andean highlands, past remote villages, and stunning landscapes. The highlight of the trail is the Quilotoa Lagoon, a stunning emerald-green crater lake.
  • Cotopaxi National Park: This park offers a range of trails for hikers and mountain bikers, ranging from easy to challenging.

Best Things to Do in Andean Highlands: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Springs: There are many hot springs scattered throughout the region, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
  • Indigenous Market: Visit the vibrant markets in Otavalo and Saquisilí to shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and pottery.
  • Train Ride: Take a scenic train ride through the Andes, passing through breathtaking scenery and charming colonial towns.

Week-Long Itinerary for Andean Highlands

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Quito’s historic center and visit the Museo del Banco Central
Day 2 Hike the Quilotoa Loop, visiting remote villages and stunning landscapes
Day 3 Visit the Cotopaxi National Park and trek to the peak of the volcano
Day 4 Explore the charming colonial town of Cuenca
Day 5 Take a train ride through the Andes and visit the Ingapirca ruins
Day 6 Visit the Baños region and enjoy adventurous activities
Day 7 Relax at the hot springs and shop at the Otavalo market for souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Andean Highlands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Locro: A hearty soup made with potatoes, cheese, corn, and avocado.
  • Ceviche: A popular seafood dish made with raw shrimp or fish, marinated in lemon juice and spices.
  • Ecuadorian Tamales: A traditional dish made with cornmeal, meat, and vegetables, wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed.

Local Beverages

  • Canelazo: A warm, cinnamon-infused drink made with aguardiente (a local spirit), water, and sugar.
  • Chicha: A fermented corn drink, popular with indigenous communities.
  • Coffee: Ecuador is known for its high-quality coffee, grown on the slopes of the Andes.

Where to Stay in Andean Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in the Andean Highlands, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

  • Budget: Hostel Tiana, Mama Hilda, and Hostal El Rojo are all affordable options, with clean rooms and friendly staff.
  • Mid-Range: La Casona de la Ronda, Mansion Alcazar, and Hacienda Uzhupud offer comfortable rooms, charming decor, and great amenities.
  • Luxury: Casa Gangotena, Hotel Plaza Grande, and Hacienda Zuleta are all five-star properties, with stunning architecture, posh rooms, and top-notch facilities.

What to Buy in Andean Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Textiles: Otavalo is known for its vibrant, hand-woven textiles, which make for great souvenirs.
  • Tagua Nut Carvings: These intricate carvings are made from the ivory-like tagua nut, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
  • Panama Hats: Although not originally from Panama, these hand-woven hats are a popular souvenir in Ecuador.

Local Culture and Customs of Andean Highlands

The Andean Highlands are steeped in indigenous culture, with many indigenous communities still living in the region. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and seek permission before taking photographs of people or places of worship.

Best Time to Visit Andean Highlands

The best time to visit the Andean Highlands is from June to September, during the dry season, when the weather is mild and sunny. However, the region can be visited year-round, with each season offering its unique charm and beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Andean Highlands

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and drink
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without asking for permission
  • Disrespect sacred sites and places of worship
  • Leave valuables unattended

Safety and Health

Safety in Andean Highlands

The Andean Highlands are generally safe for visitors, but it’s essential to take precautions, such as avoiding petty crime-prone areas and staying aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to carry ID, cash, and other valuables in a secure place.

Health in Andean Highlands

Visitors should be aware of altitude sickness, which can affect travelers at higher elevations, such as Cotopaxi National Park. It’s recommended to drink plenty of water, rest if feeling fatigued, and avoid alcohol and strenuous activities until you have acclimatized.

Getting to Andean Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Andean Highlands

The Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito is the main gateway to the Andean Highlands, with flights from major cities in South America, North America, and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Andean Highlands

There are several bus stations in Quito, with buses traveling to major destinations throughout the Andean Highlands.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available but may be more costly than taking public transportation.

How to Get Around in Andean Highlands

Public transportation, such as buses and shared taxis, is the most common mode of transport in the Andean Highlands. Visitors can also hire private drivers or join guided tours for more convenience.

Where to Go Next from Andean Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Amazon: The Andean Highlands offer easy access to the Amazon rainforest, with many tour operators offering jungle adventures and wildlife spotting.
  • The Galapagos Islands: The Galapagos Islands are a unique and incredible destination, home to an array of endangered wildlife species. From Quito, visitors can take a flight to the Galapagos and spend a few days exploring the islands.

Conclusion

The Andean Highlands of Ecuador are a must-see destination for anyone visiting South America. With stunning natural scenery, rich indigenous culture, and a range of adventurous activities, it’s a dream destination for travelers of all kinds. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Andean Highlands and discover all the wonders this region has to offer.



    Alausi
    Ambato
    Baños
    Cuenca
    Guaranda
    Illiniza
    Laguna Cuicocha
    Laguna Quilotoa
    Latacunga
    Loja
    Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
    Quito
    Riobamba
    Salinas de Guaranda
    Sangay National Park
    Santiago de Bolivar
    Vilcabamba