San Pedro de Riobamba, or simply Riobamba, quickly became one of the most fascinating stops on our Ecuador journey. This capital city of Chimborazo province often gets bypassed by tourists since it’s tucked halfway between Cuenca and Baños, but we were thrilled to explore this historic spot. For those of us who love history, it’s incredible to know that Riobamba was the first city in Ecuador discovered by the Spaniards.
When we arrived, we could immediately feel the city’s adventurous spirit, with its stunning Andes surroundings and so much to see within the city itself.
It was definitely a different city compared to Quito or Cuenca. The highlight of Riobamba is its stunning view of the Chimborazo volcano, which makes walking around this city truly special!
We made time to explore Riobamba’s charming churches, peaceful parks, unique museums, and various historical landmarks. And, of course, trying the local specialties was a must for us! The city also offers several affordable hotels, perfect for a comfortable night’s rest between all the adventures. Riobamba’s got a special charm that made us glad we included it in our itinerary.
It was one of the cities we passed by during our 15-day self-drive trip to Ecuador Mainland.
What To Do In Riobamba, Ecuador
Riobamba sits at a high altitude, so if you’re not used to thinner air, it can take some getting used to! To help acclimate, I recommend taking ChlorOxygen 1-2 weeks ahead of your trip. It made a difference for us, easing the altitude adjustment and helping us enjoy our time in the Andes without any altitude issues.
Maldonado Park
Parque Maldonado, also known as Parque Pedro Vicente Maldonado, is right in the heart of Riobamba’s historic center. During our visit, we loved its central location, as it sits directly in front of the Riobamba Cathedral, making it easy to explore both spots at once. It’s actually the city’s first planned plaza, and you can feel the historical weight of the place as you walk around.
Sucre Park
Sucre Park is a lovely spot in Riobamba where we found the fountain dedicated to Neptune, the Roman god of the sea. It was interesting to learn that this fountain marked the start of Riobamba’s potable water system back in 1913. The park is named after Antonio José de Sucre, one of Ecuador’s national heroes who played a major role in the country’s independence. Wandering through, we could feel a deep sense of history tied to the place, making it more than just a beautiful park.
Visit Cathedrals
Riobamba Cathedral
St. Peter Cathedral, also called Riobamba Cathedral, stood out as the most prominent landmark in the city. Walking inside, we noticed the unique blend of traditional Catholic architecture intertwined with indigenous symbols, creating an atmosphere rich with cultural depth. The cathedral’s structure includes remnants from the previous city that were repurposed after the devastating 1797 earthquake, giving it a profound historical significance. Exploring these details, my wife and I felt like we were stepping back through centuries of Riobamba’s history.
Basilica of Sacred Heart of Jesus
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, situated right across from Libertad Park, was easy to spot with its towering structures, grand arch, and impressive dome. We were captivated by the Basilica’s unique design; those two high towers make it stand out beautifully against the skyline. It’s truly one of those architectural gems that you can’t miss when strolling through Riobamba.
Iglesia Católica San Antonio de Padua
Iglesia Católica San Antonio de Padua or simply Iglesia San Antonio is another notable church in Riobamba with spectacular architecture. It stands on one of the city’s highest points.
Other churches to see in Riobamba:
- Iglesia La Inmaculada Concepcion
- Iglesia La Merced
- Iglesia de Balbanera
Museums
Given Riobamba’s rich historical background, we found visiting its museums to be a fascinating experience. We started with Museo de la Ciudad, which offered an immersive look into the city’s past, followed by La Concepción Religious Art Museum to admire its collection of religious artifacts. These museums provided such valuable insights into the local culture and history, making them a must-see for anyone visiting Riobamba.
Museo de la Ciudad
We discovered that Riobamba’s free city museum is a hidden gem.
Housed in a charming old mansion, the museum features rotating exhibits alongside classic furniture and art pieces left by the previous owner. Wandering through the rooms, we felt like we were stepping back in time, enjoying both the architecture and the stories within its walls. It’s a fantastic stop for anyone wanting a blend of art, history, and a bit of Riobamba’s unique charm—plus, it’s free!
La Concepción Religious Art Museum
If you’re a fan of religious art like I am, La Concepción Religious Art Museum is a must-visit in Riobamba. The museum holds an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and images that beautifully reflect the depth of Christian art and culture. We spent some time admiring the intricate details and historical significance of the pieces, each offering a window into the region’s religious heritage.
Ride on Tren de Hielo
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The Tren de Hielo, or Ice Train, was one of the most unique experiences we had in Riobamba. This rail journey takes you through some of Ecuador’s most scenic routes as it winds its way up to Urbina, the country’s highest train station, nestled within the twists and turns of Chimborazo.
The highlight of this journey is meeting Baltazarr Ushca, the last remaining ice merchant. For over 60 years, he’s climbed up to Chimborazo’s “ice mine” every week to carve out blocks of glacier ice, which he still brings down to sell in the Riobamba markets. Hearing his story firsthand, knowing he’s the last of his kind, gave us such a profound sense of the dedication and tradition rooted in this unique trade.
After our memorable encounter with Baltazar Ushca, the Ice Train journey continued to La Moya, a charming Andean village. As soon as we arrived, we were warmly greeted by llamas and local children, who enthusiastically led us on a short tour of their village. This welcoming community proudly shared their way of life with us, making it a delightful experience that added to the authenticity of our journey through the Andes.
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve was one of the highlights of our trip, especially being on the slopes of Chimborazo—the highest volcano in Ecuador. Known for its unique status as the world’s highest mountain when measured from Earth’s center rather than sea level, Chimborazo’s towering presence is awe-inspiring. The reserve itself is a protected area, rich in diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this high-altitude Andean landscape. There are many tours available and I highly recommend you to be a part of a guided tour. You can find many here.
Carrel Refuge
The Carrel Refuge was a quick but memorable stop for us. This large parking area is where the trail to the Edward Whymper Refuge begins. If hiking further up wasn’t on your agenda, like it wasn’t for us that day, a short 30-meter walk up the trail leads to a memorial monument. From there, we enjoyed breathtaking views of Chimborazo—well worth the stop to take in the scenery and feel the vastness of this incredible landscape.
Edward Whymper Refuge
The trail from Carrel to Edward Whymper Refuge climbs about 60 meters in altitude, which may not sound like much, but at this elevation, we really felt the challenge. If the weather is on your side, you can keep hiking up to discover a small, high alpine lake formed by glacial melt—a peaceful and stunning sight. Just be careful to stay within the warning signs; the conditions can be unpredictable, so safety comes first on this trek.
Take The Iceman Trail
Baltazar Ushca’s traditional ice-harvesting path on Chimborazo has since been opened up as a public hiking trail, allowing visitors to experience part of his journey firsthand. It’s incredible to walk along the same path as the last ice merchant of Chimborazo, feeling the history and tradition that Baltazar has kept alive for decades. The trail offers a unique way to connect with the mountain’s cultural heritage and the breathtaking landscapes of the high Andes.
Mountain Biking in Chimborazo
We found that mountain bike tours in Riobamba are a popular choice, and several operators offer guided trips down from Carrel Refuge. This spot is ideal for adventurous bikers, with a mix of single-track trails and winding rural roads that snake down the rugged mountainside. The experience was thrilling—perfect for those wanting to take in the dramatic Andean landscapes while feeling the rush of navigating rocky paths. We took this tour and it was one of a kind!
Reach Chimborazo’s Summit
Reaching the summit of Chimborazo is a dream goal for many mountaineers. Known as the highest peak in the world when measured from Earth’s center, this climb is both challenging and thrilling. For novice alpinists, Chimborazo serves as an excellent introductory summit, offering a mix of technical difficulty and breathtaking views. However, the climb can be dangerous, particularly for those who aren’t well-acclimated to the high altitude or lack mountain climbing experience. Taking extra preparation and even training can make a significant difference in the experience.
What To Eat In Riobamba, Ecuador
Rompenunca
Rompenuncas are a unique treat in Riobamba, blending fresh fruit with glacier ice harvested from the top of Chimborazo. This smoothie-like drink is refreshing and comes in a range of flavors, perfect for cooling down and savoring a taste of the Andes. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience to enjoy a drink made with glacier ice, adding a touch of local tradition to every sip.
Ceviche de Chochos
Riobamba’s twist on ceviche is a delightful change, using chohos (a type of Andean bean) as the main ingredient instead of seafood and a tomato-based sauce for richness. This local specialty often includes pig ears or skin, adding both texture and flavor. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that brings out the unique culinary traditions of the Andes.
Riobamba’s Hornado
In Riobamba, hornado (roasted pig) is served with its own regional flair. If you’re curious to try, head to Mercado de Merced, where you’ll find vendors dishing up perfectly roasted pork with that unique, local twist. The crispy skin and tender meat, often served with sides like mote (hominy) and llapingacho (potato patties), make it a must-try for any food lover exploring the area.
Where To Stay In Riobamba, Ecuador
Hotels
Hotels would be the safest way to stay in Riobamba, so we highly recommend to pick one of the below:
Casa 1881
Casa 1881 is a boutique hotel with antique furnishings. Rates in this accommodation range from USD40 to USD70 (check the current price here).
Chimborazo Lodge
If you want to stay near Chimborazo Reserve, this is the closest one you can stay at. You can enjoy the stunning views and the wildlife in this lodge. Staying in this accommodation normally costs more than USD100 per night (check the current price here).
Hotel Estacion
Hotel Estacion has a 24-hour reception, wi-fi access, and luggage storage facilities. Their rates usually start at USD30 per night (check the current price here).
Hostels
Hostel Villa Bonita
Hostel Villa Bonita features a fully equipped kitchen and free wi-fi access. Their nightly rates start at USD20 for a private room (check the current price here).
Home Humboldt
Home Humbolt features a kitchen, rooftop patio with scenic views, and wi-fi access. The nightly rate for dorm beds usually starts at USD10 but we heard some complaints from the travelers.
Transport in Riobamba
Riobamba is a wonderfully walkable city, making it easy to explore its charming streets and local spots on foot. My wife and I found walking to be the most convenient way to get around, especially for nearby destinations. For those spots a bit further out, taxis are a great option—generally affordable and reliable. Just remember, taxi meters aren’t always in use here, so it’s a good idea to agree on a fair price with the driver before you hop in. It worked well for us, and we felt confident moving around this way!
Uber is not operating in Riobamba. You can get to the city center from Riobamba’s bus terminal for USD2.
Riobamba’s Altitude, Climate, and Weather
At 2,750 meters above sea level, Riobamba’s altitude is no joke, especially if you’re planning to tackle adventures that go above 5,000 meters. My wife and I made sure to acclimatize before jumping into any of the more extreme activities, like hiking or aiming for Chimborazo’s summit.
If clear skies are on your wish list, aim for travel between May and October, when you’ll have the best odds. From November to March, the weather tends to be cloudier and rainier, but there are still occasional clear days that can surprise you—just another reason to be prepared!
Travel and Safety Tips in Riobamba Ecuador
Riobamba felt quite safe during our stay, and we didn’t hear of any major safety issues. Still, it’s always wise to stay alert and not let your guard down, especially in crowded spots—better to enjoy the experience with peace of mind.
As for the weather, remember that it’s cool up here, so packing layers is key. We were comfortable with essentials like light jackets and long-sleeved shirts. These layers made all the difference, especially when temperatures dipped unexpectedly.
Conclusion
Our trip to Riobamba was a perfect blend of adventure and history. Hiking in Chimborazo was definitely the highlight—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that left us in awe of Ecuador’s natural beauty. For anyone who loves adventure and the thrill of the outdoors, I can’t recommend Riobamba enough. It’s a destination that stays with you long after you’ve left.
