Guaranda Travel Guide (Andean Highlands/Ecuador/South America)

Introduction to Guaranda

Located in the Andean Highlands of Ecuador, Guaranda is a hidden gem that combines rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor adventures for all types of travelers. Set at an elevation of 2,740 meters, the city is surrounded by towering mountains, green valleys, and picturesque Andean farmland that will take your breath away.

List of Places to Visit in Guaranda

If you’re planning a trip to this charming city, here are some top attractions and destinations that you should add to your travel itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Casa de la Cultura: A cultural center that showcases traditional arts and crafts of the region, history, architecture, and cultural events.
Museo Guaranda: A historical museum that delves into Guaranda’s history, from pre-Hispanic times to the colonial era and beyond.
Las Catedrales: A complex of three churches, which displays influences from European, indigenous, and mestizo cultures.

Natural Attractions of Guaranda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parque Nacional Sangay: One of the most stunning national parks in Ecuador, which features a diverse range of ecosystems, from high-altitude Andean forests to Amazonian lowlands, and boasts unique flora and fauna.
El Altar: A volcano and a mountaineering destination that resembles an altar, hence its name. With over 13,000 feet, and three peaks challenging hikers.
Laguna de Colta: A scenic lake surrounded by mountains and offering breathtaking views for photography enthusiasts.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guaranda

Guaranda is also a paradise for hikers and bikers. The city boasts a network of well-marked trails that lead through stunning landscapes and offer unparalleled views of the surroundings.

The El Altar Trek: The classic Andean trek of hiking from the village of Cebadas to the base of El Altar.
The Chimborazo Trek: An exciting hike to the Chimborazo volcano, the highest peak in Ecuador.
The Rumiñahui Trek: A multi-day trip that takes visitors through spectacular landscapes, from the picturesque town of Salinas to the Rumiñahui volcano.

Best Things to Do in Guaranda: Activities and Tours

Carnival of Guaranda: One of the top festivals in Ecuador, occurring in February or March every year, celebrated with music, parades, costumes, and colorful processions.
Aguacate Trail: A guided tour through traditional Andean farmland and forests to the Aguacate Waterfall, where you can swim under the stunning waterfall.
Traditional Dishes at Hacienda La Danesa: A culinary exploration of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine accompanied by a tropical fruit plantation tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guaranda

If you have a week to spare, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in Guaranda:

Day	Activity
1	Arrival and exploring the city. See the church, Casa de la Cultura, and town square.
2	Hike to the Laguna de Colta.
3	Tour the remote villages of Salinas and Chimborazo.
4	Participate in the Festival of the World’s Best Bread and Children in Salinas.
5	Visit the Catedrales de Guaranda.
6	Excursion to the Aguacate Waterfall.
7	Departure from Guaranda.

Food and Drink Scene of Guaranda

Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its rich and diverse flavors, and Guaranda is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

Locro de Papas: A hearty potato soup made with cheese, avocado, and bread.
Fanesca: A traditional soup served during holy week, made with pumpkin, beans, corn, and spices.
Tamales: A traditional dish of cornmeal steamed in leaves and filled with meat or vegetables.

Local Beverages

Canelazo: A hot, spiced alcoholic drink made of fruit juice, cloves, cinnamon, and naranjilla fruit.
Horchata: A refreshing, non-alcoholic drink made of tigernut and sugar, perfect for hot summer days.

Where to Stay in Guaranda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Guaranda offers a range of affordable and comfortable accommodations that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some options:

Hostería Durán: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Guaranda, offering comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.
Hostería La Estación: A cozy guesthouse set in a historical building with charming decor and a restaurant that serves traditional Andean dishes.
Casa de huéspedes de la Familia Silva: A family-run guesthouse that offers clean and simple rooms, a garden, and free parking.

What to Buy in Guaranda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Guaranda is known for its handmade crafts, artisanal products, and cultural heritage. Here are some items to consider bringing back home:

Handmade textiles: Quality-made clothes, including Alpaca wool hats, mittens, and scarfs.
Artisanal ceramics: High-quality and locally made beauty ceramics.
Aguardiente: A local spirit made from sugarcane, which is typically mixed with hot water and sugar and served on cold nights.

Local Culture and Customs of Guaranda

Guaranda boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects the region’s history, traditions, and indigenous roots. Vaquilla, a centuries-old Andean tradition of bulls running through the streets, is prevalent around the city. Additionally, the city is home to the Salinas Culture and many artisans whose works reflect this indigenous heritage.

Best Time to Visit Guaranda

Guaranda enjoys a mild and temperate climate, with temperatures ranging between 12C-20C. February and March offer the best weather, as well as the popular Carnival of Guaranda.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guaranda

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions of the people.
Take time to appreciate the stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventures that Guaranda has to offer.
Be sure to attend at least one of the town’s festivals, such as Carnival.

Don’t:

Take or consume drugs – it is illegal in Ecuador.
Be disrespectful to the people, culture or traditions of Guaranda.
Leave valuables unattended or in plain sight while traveling.

Safety and Health

Ecuador is a safe country, but travelers should be aware of potential pickpockets and scams. In terms of health, it is recommended that visitors have a yellow fever vaccination prior to visiting Guaranda as well as purchasing travel medical insurance in case of an emergency.

Getting to Guaranda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guaranda is easily reachable by bus from major cities in Ecuador, including Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. However, there is no train or airport that directly serves Guaranda.

Airports Near Guaranda

Eloy Alfaro International Airport in Manta (187 miles)
Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito (148 miles)

Bus Stations Near Guaranda

Terminal Terrestre de Quito: (Located in northern Quito)
Terminal Terrestre de Guayaquil: (Located in the center of the city)

Other Options

Renting a car and driving to Guaranda is always an option for international visitors.

How to Get Around in Guaranda

Taxis and buses within the city are generally reliable and safe, and the price varies depending on the distance traveled. Bicycle and car rentals are also available.

Where to Go Next from Guaranda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Guaranda is centrally located and makes an ideal base for exploring other towns in the region. Some nearby attractions include:

Chimborazo National Park: A high mountainous national park that features the highest peak in Ecuador.
Salinas de Guaranda: A picturesque town known for its cheese, chocolate, and Andean culture.

Conclusion

Guaranda is a hidden gem that combines stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures in one place. From hiking and biking through the Andean Highlands to exploring the city’s colonial architecture, there’s something for everyone here. So pack your bags and add Guaranda to your South American travel bucket list today!