Things To Do
in Alausí
Alausí is a highland town in Ecuador’s Andes, perched above the Chanchán valley and serving as the gateway to dramatic mountain scenery. It is best known for the legendary Nariz del Diablo train route, which zigzags through steep switchbacks and offers sweeping views. The town preserves a traditional Andean atmosphere with colonial churches, markets, and friendly locals who welcome visitors with slow-paced warmth.
Visitors come for the railway experience, mountain landscapes, and a base for exploring rural life in the central highlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Alausí and settle into your hotel. Take the time to acclimate to the altitude and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Explore the charming streets of the town, breathing in the fresh mountain air and admiring the traditional architecture.
After lunch, visit the Alausí train station, where you can learn about the history of the famous Devil’s Nose train ride. This is a perfect opportunity to gather information and appreciate the scenic routes you will soon embark on. Don't forget to take photographs of the vibrant train that is a hallmark of the area.
In the evening, dine at a cozy restaurant that offers a taste of local cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients while sharing stories with fellow travelers. Conclude your day with a stroll through the town, perhaps picking up some handmade souvenirs.
Begin the day with an early breakfast before boarding the famous train for the Devil’s Nose journey. Witness breathtaking views as the train carves its way through the Andean mountains. The unique engineering and steep landscapes will leave you in awe.
Once you reach the summit, take some time to soak in the panoramic views and explore the surrounding area. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by stunning backdrops of mountains and valleys. Capture the beauty of this experience through photographs, making memories to cherish.
Return to Alausí in the early evening, where you can unwind after a thrilling day. Consider visiting a local café to enjoy hot chocolate or a warm bowl of traditional soup. Wind down by chatting with locals about their lives in this remarkable place.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🚗Local transport (short taxi or bus ride) | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic Nariz del Diablo train experience and breathtaking Andean scenery
- Warm, welcoming locals and a compact town feel
- Low cost of living and affordable traditional cuisine
- Accessible base for surrounding highland adventures
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale dining options
- Some attractions require advance planning or day trips for access
- Rural areas may have limited English spoken and cash-only vendors
- Roads can be winding and travel times longer than expected
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Alausí
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic vantage point along the railway route with dramatic switchbacks and sweeping Andean valleys; best at dawn or dusk.
Colonial square framed by pastel buildings and the town church, ideal for street photography and portrait shots.
Calm waters and green riverbanks perfect for golden-hour reflections and locals going about daily life.
Ridge paths offer expansive views of the town, valley, and distant mountains—great for wide landscape shots.
Capture the train snaking through the landscape and the exchange of steam and modern rail in a dramatic setting.
Food in Alausí
Alausí Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy potato soup with cheese and herbs; a comforting staple in highland homes and eateries.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted pork served with mote or potatoes; commonly offered in local dining spots and on special occasions.
Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish available at select restaurants for the adventurous eater.
Mashed potato cakes stuffed with cheese, often served with eggs, sausage, or chorizo.
Large, sweet corn on the cob paired with fresh regional cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, cheeses, herbs, and prepared snacks; great for a quick, authentic bite.
Empanadas, hornado bites, mote, frituras, and seasonal fruit sold by friendly vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a light handshake or nod.
Dress modestly in public spaces; avoid offensive language or loud behavior in sacred or family settings.
Politely request permission before taking photos of individuals or families, especially in rural communities.
Ask about local etiquette when visiting homes or participating in community events.
Safety
Tipping in Alausí
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. Guides and drivers appreciate small tips (around $2-5 per day). Round up fares for taxis; in markets, tipping is not expected.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets and smaller shops. Credit/debit cards are more commonly accepted in larger restaurants, hotels, and tourist services. ATMs are available in town, but carry some cash for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
May through September brings clearer days, cooler nights, and excellent hiking conditions. Mornings can be misty, but afternoons are often sunny with great visibility for photography.
October through April brings regular rain showers and lush, vibrant scenery. Trails may be muddy; waterproof gear and sturdy boots are recommended.
Transition period with fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and variable weather—good for cultural experiences and slower travel.
Another quieter period with occasional rain, but often clear days in between; great for enjoying the Nariz del Diablo without peak-season crowds.
Alausí at Night
Hiking in Alausí
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hikes that explore farmland, pine groves, and scenic overlooks above the town.
Riverside paths offering soft terrain and opportunities to observe wildlife along the water.
Accessible day trips for those wanting more alpine scenery, with proper acclimatization and planning.
Airports
How to reach Alausí by plane.
Main international gateway to Ecuador; several daily flights connect to major hubs. From Quito, you can reach Alausí by road via a roughly 4–6 hour transfer.
Smaller regional airport with domestic connections; convenient for shorter trips to the central highlands and a shorter drive to Alausí.
Another regional option with domestic connections; add a longer but feasible overland leg to reach Alausí.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population in the town and surrounding areas, blending Indigenous and European heritage.
Nearby rural communities with Quechua heritage and agricultural traditions still evident in daily life and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local kids and adults enjoy casual games in town squares and fields.
Popular among visitors and locals seeking mountains, viewpoints, and rural routes.
A common activity around the valley and agricultural areas, offering an authentic rural experience.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alausí.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer cheese, bean, and potato dishes. Look for locro de papa without meat, llapingachos, salads, and veggie soups. If unsure, ask for 'sin carne' (no meat) and 'sin carne ni cuy' (no meat or cuy).