Alausí truly surprised us with its charm. Nestled 170 kilometers from Cuenca, this small mountain town feels like a hidden gem with its colorful old houses set against the majestic Andes. The community here is close-knit, and the atmosphere is wonderfully tranquil.
In 2019, Alausí was designated a Pueblo Magico by Ecuador’s Ministry of Tourism, a title given to towns rich in Ecuadorian culture and heritage to help promote tourism. This honor felt fitting as we explored its quaint streets and felt its history and pride radiate in every corner. It was one of the memorable stops on our 15-day self-drive adventure across Ecuador’s mainland, giving us a taste of the country’s authentic spirit.
Most tourists tend to stop by Alausí just for a quick experience of the famous Devil’s Nose Train—though it’s no longer in operation. But if you spend a little more time here, Alausí has so much more to reveal. We stayed around longer than planned and discovered a town full of hidden gems, from charming plazas to scenic viewpoints. It’s well worth the extra time to soak in the town’s authentic vibe and see what most travelers miss.
Things to do in Alausi, Ecuador
Devil’s Nose Train
UPDATE: Unfortunately, the company went bankrupt and the train is not operating anymore.
Ecuador has an impressive railway history, and the Devil’s Nose—known locally as Nariz del Diablo—is undoubtedly the most famous section. I remember hearing stories about how it got its nickname due to the difficult construction process on the Condors Aerie mountainside, along with the tragic loss of numerous workers. When my wife and I learned about this feat of engineering and its harrowing past, we knew we had to visit.
Originally, travelers could take the train all the way from Guayaquil to Quito. However, over the years, much of the railway fell into disrepair after severe natural calamities, leaving only the Devil’s Nose operational by the 1990s. This section, connecting Alausi to Sibambe Station, became a must-see due to its dramatic views and the historical significance.
The Devil’s Nose ride promised such a thrilling adventure down the rugged Andes slopes, winding along roaring rivers, dense cloud forests, and steep mountain ravines. We were ready to go at either 8 a.m. or 11 a.m., as the train ran daily except on Mondays. The ride took about 2.5 hours, with a quick 15-minute stop at a viewpoint and an hour to explore Sibambe Station.
While we missed the opportunity since it’s no longer operating, I truly hope they’ll reopen it soon. We’re crossing our fingers for the chance to experience the thrill of this historic journey on our next visit to Alausi.
This is how it was:
Alausí Train Station
The Alausi Train Station, visible from the ‘Rest of the Devil’ viewpoint, is a true spectacle. My wife and I were in awe of the charming landscape that spreads across the mountains and valleys. But the real magic here goes beyond the views.
At the station, we had the chance to dive into the local culture. They offer a unique experience that lets visitors participate in the daily lives of the community. We helped out on farms, got hands-on with traditional crafts, and listened to captivating legends passed down through generations. The stories added so much depth to our visit, making us feel connected to the local heritage.
For those looking for more adventure, the station has activities like horseback riding and guided farm visits. It was a perfect blend of scenery, culture, and experiences that left us with unforgettable memories of Alausi.
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Stroll Around The Colorful Neighborhood of Alausi
Small towns are very interesting to explore. You will always find something intriguing when you stroll around. Here are some sights we have seen around the magical town of Alausi:
Plaza Bolivar
At Plaza Bolivar, we found ourselves standing before a striking golden bust of Simon Bolivar, the Venezuelan leader whose efforts were instrumental in liberating several South American nations from Spanish rule. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder of the history that shaped this region.
Strolling through the plaza, surrounded by locals and travelers alike, we took a moment to appreciate the significance of this spot and Bolivar’s influence, which still resonates deeply in Ecuador’s culture and identity.
Parque 13 de Noviembre
In the heart of Parque 13 de Noviembre, we came across the Monumento La Libertad, a proud symbol of the town’s independence. It’s a place that feels deeply rooted in Alausí’s history, a reminder of the resilience and unity that shaped this community.
Wandering around the park, we took in the relaxed atmosphere with locals chatting on benches and children playing nearby. The monument itself is simple yet meaningful, a place where we could pause and reflect on Alausí’s journey to independence. It’s moments like these that connect you to the spirit of a place.
Plazoleta Guayaquil
One of the must-stop spots for photos in Alausí is the landmark sign in Plazoleta Guayaquil. We made our way there, joining other visitors snapping photos with the colorful letters that spell out “Alausí,” framed perfectly by the stunning Andean backdrop.
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Enjoy The Views in San Pedro Mirador
Climbing those 160 steps up to San Pedro Mirador was worth every step. At the top, we found a towering statue of San Pedro, seeming to watch over Alausí below with a sense of calm and protection. Standing there, with the town at our feet and the Andean mountains stretching out before us, we felt like we were truly in the heart of Ecuador’s beauty.
Explore The Ozogoche Lakes
The Ozogoche Lakes are indeed a hidden gem nestled within Sangay National Park, just a short drive from Alausí. The journey was well worth it for the breathtaking panoramic views and the calm, serene atmosphere around the lakes. When we visited, locals shared the fascinating story of migrating Plover birds that arrive here in large numbers during September and October, seeking warmth as winter approaches. It felt magical to imagine the scene.
Since transportation to the lakes can be tricky, we took the advice of our hotel, which helped us book a tour to make the visit stress-free. I’d definitely recommend asking at your hotel if you’re considering this trip—it made things so much easier for us.
What To Eat In Alausi, Ecuador
If you’re planning a visit to Alausí, try to set it for the weekend. Every Sunday, the town hosts a bustling market that spreads through the streets, filled with colorful crops, traditional handicrafts, and a variety of Ecuadorian street foods. The market atmosphere was fantastic, and it was easy to lose ourselves exploring each stall.
We made sure to sample the local street foods, starting with llapingachos—delicious fried potato patties filled with cheese. Of course, we couldn’t skip cuy (roasted guinea pig), served with potatoes in peanut sauce and a side salad. But the standout was a dish we tried for the first time in Alausí: wadding. It’s made from cow belly, cooked in a rich sauce, and served in square cuts drizzled with peanut sauce, usually accompanied by potatoes or rice. It was a memorable experience and truly highlighted the town’s local flavors!
Where To Stay In Alausi, Ecuador
Hotels
Hotel Europa
Hotel Europa offers free wi-fi in all areas of the hotel. It also features express check-in and check-out, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage facilities. Their nightly rate usually starts at USD25.
Hotel El Molino
Hotel El Molino is just a minute walk away from Alausi Main Square. The property is pet-friendly and features free wi-fi and breakfast. A double room usually costs USD80 per night.
Hosteria Pircapamba
This property features a garden and free wi-fi access. It also offers airport shuttles and tour arrangements. A single room with one single bed is normally priced at USD20 per night (check the latest price here) with breakfast.
Hostels
Community Hostel Alausi
Community Hostel Alausi is a top choice hostel among backpackers. They offer free access to the internet and parking. It also features a shared lounge. Dorm beds are usually priced starting at USD10 per night.
AirBnBs
The Balcony Train Guest House Alausi
This Devil’s Nose-themed guest house has three bedrooms with three beds and two baths and has wi-fi access. Their rate is affordable with rates starting at USD25 per night.
Alpaca Permaculture Farm Stay
Try something different like a farm stay experience in this guest house that is a 10-minute walk away from Alausi. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys surrounding the area. The nightly rate in this stunning lodge with one bedroom and one bath is around USD20 per night.
How To Get To Alausi, Ecuador
By Air
For foreign travelers, the closest international airport to Alausi is the Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport which is in Guayaquil. It is approximately 167 kilometers from Alausi.
By Bus
The town of Alausi is accessible from most large cities in Ecuador. Several bus companies operate direct trips to this small town.
From Cuenca
The trip from Cuenca to Alausi takes around four hours. Cuenca buses operate direct trips to Alausi on a regular basis. The cost is about $10.
From Baños
If you are coming from Baños, head to Cuenca first via bus and from there, take the bus with a direct trip to Alausi. The ride is about 3.5 hours and the cost is $10.
From Guayaquil
The bus journey from Guayaquil to Alausi is around three hours. You can either take a direct trip or take the route to Duran, and from here take a bus to Bucay. Upon reaching Bucay, you can take another bus to reach Alausi. The cost is about $15.
From Quito
The easiest way to go to Alausi from Quito is to hop on a bus directly traveling to Alausi. If you have a different plan or itinerary, you can also head to Riobamba first, then ride a bus to Alausi. Direct bus trips to Alausi are more frequent in Riobamba. This trip would take you around seven hours. The cost is about $20.
Transport in Alausi, Ecuador
Transportation in Alausi is mainly taxis and buses just like in any other city in Ecuador. If you are going to remote places from the town, like Ozogoche Lakes, it is better to ask for help from your accommodation so they can assist you.
Alausi’s Altitude, Climate, and Weather
At 2,285 meters above sea level, Alausí definitely brings that high-altitude feel, so it’s wise to acclimatize before you visit, especially if you’re coming from lower elevations. For us, prepping with ChlorOxygen a week or two beforehand really helped us adjust. The town’s cooler climate also means packing some extra layers is essential; light jackets and long-sleeved shirts were a must for us. And with the frequent chance of rain in these mountain areas, having a rain jacket and a compact umbrella saved us more than once.
If you’re looking for the best time to go, I’d recommend visiting in January or February when the summer season wraps up. It’s a great time to take in Alausí’s charm without the peak summer crowds!
Safety Tips in Alausi, Ecuador
Alausí felt incredibly safe and welcoming to us. The locals were warm and helpful, and we didn’t hear of any incidents involving theft or pickpocketing. Wandering around town and visiting the nearby attractions felt relaxed and secure. However, as with any travel, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings—just a good habit to have no matter where you go!
Conclusion
Alausí truly lives up to its title as one of Ecuador’s Pueblos Mágicos—and for good reason. The town has an undeniable charm, with breathtaking landscapes that instantly capture you, and it’s brimming with rich Ecuadorian history at every corner. If you love discovering beautiful, lesser-known destinations that still feel authentic, Alausí is a must-add to your travel list. It has that rare mix of natural beauty and cultural depth that leaves a lasting impression.
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