Things To Do
in Ambato
Ambato is a picturesque city nestled in the central highlands of Ecuador, known for its pleasant climate and beautiful landscapes. The city is famous for its annual Fruit and Flowers Festival, a vibrant celebration of the region's agricultural heritage. Ambato is surrounded by lush mountains and fertile valleys, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
With a rich cultural history and welcoming local community, Ambato offers a charming glimpse into traditional Ecuadorian life.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional breakfast of fanesca, a hearty soup that’s popular in Ambato. Afterward, head to the local market to explore fresh produce and artisan goods.
Visit the historic Bolivar Street, where you can find several shops and cafés. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring Ecuadorian cuisine.
Stroll through the Parque Montalvo, a beautifully landscaped park perfect for relaxation. Finish the day with dinner at a cozy eatery known for its grilled meats.
Visit the nearby Chimborazo National Park for stunning mountain views and the chance to see local wildlife. Hiking trails are abundant for all fitness levels.
Return to Ambato and enjoy lunch at a local bakery known for its delicious pastries. Spend the afternoon exploring the Casa del Portal, an important historical site.
Dine at a restaurant with views over the city, watching the sunset. End your day with a cultural performance at a local theater.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local festivals such as the Carnaval de Ambato.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby Chimborazo and Tungurahua volcanoes.
- A favorable climate with mild temperatures throughout the year.
- Delicious local cuisine, known for its diverse flavors and traditional dishes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other cities in Ecuador.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Infrastructural challenges, such as traffic congestion and public transportation issues.
- Higher altitudes may cause altitude sickness for some visitors.
- Occasional natural disasters risk due to the proximity of volcanoes.
- Language barrier for those not fluent in Spanish.
Best Activities in Ambato
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hiking trails in the Candelaria area, offering stunning views of the surrounding Andean landscape.
Experience the diverse flora and fauna of the area at the Ambato Botanical Garden, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Embark on an outdoor adventure to the Manto de la Novia Waterfall, where you can partake in activities such as zip-lining and hiking.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ambato with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ambato
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, with great photo opportunities.
Beautiful park with views of the city and a great spot for capturing photos of the historic architecture.
The cathedral provides a picturesque backdrop for capturing iconic images of Ambato.
Food in Ambato
Ambato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Ecuadorian dish of roasted pork, typically marinated in achiote and served with llapingacho (potato pancakes), hominy, and salad. Must-try at El Hornado de Doña Gaby or Restaurante Cuyes y Mote.
Must-Try!
Fried potato patties stuffed with cheese and served with avocado, fried eggs, and a side of chorizo. Available at Mercado Modelo or La Casona del Cafeto.
Slow-cooked pork served with mote (hominy) and llapingacho. Best enjoyed at La Taberna de Tony or Restaurante El Descanso.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ambato better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local flavors, offering fresh produce, meats, and street food stalls selling delicacies like empanadas, tamales, and ceviche.
A vibrant market where you can sample authentic street food such as humitas (steamed corn cakes), plantain empanadas, and various types of grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. In more formal situations, a kiss on the cheek may also be appropriate.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Ambato. It is important to address older individuals with formal titles such as 'senor' or 'senora' as a sign of respect.
Punctuality is important in Ambato, so it is polite to arrive on time for social gatherings or appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ambato with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ambato
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ambato, Ecuador, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for other services. A 10% tip is customary if the service charge is not included in the bill.
Payment in Ambato, Ecuador is primarily done in cash, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ambato.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Ambato, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. During this period, you can expect to enjoy various outdoor activities and events such as the famous Ambato Flower and Fruit Festival in February.
The rainy season in Ambato brings frequent showers and higher humidity. However, this time also offers lush green landscapes and the opportunity to witness impressive natural beauty. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rainfall and cooler temperatures during this season.
Ambato at Night
Hiking in Ambato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination near Quito, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding Andes mountains. Suitable for both beginners and advanced hikers.
Home to Ecuador's highest peak, this area offers various trails. The hike provides breathtaking views and opportunities to see unique wildlife.
A beautiful waterfall located a short distance from Ambato. The hike leads through lush landscapes and offers a serene outdoor experience.
This national park features numerous trails, diverse ecosystems, and picturesque landscapes, making it ideal for hiking and exploring nature.
A short hike that rewards visitors with panoramic views of Ambato and its surrounding areas. Perfect for a quick outdoor escape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ambato through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ambato by plane.
Located in Quito, approximately 140 km north of Ambato, this is the main international airport serving Ecuador's capital.
Situated in Guayaquil, about 200 km southwest of Ambato, this airport is one of the largest in the country and serves a significant number of international flights.
A smaller international airport located in Guayaquil, providing some international services, approximately 195 km from Ambato.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Ambato, consisting of individuals of mixed indigenous and European descent.
Includes various groups with distinct languages and cultural practices, primarily from the surrounding rural areas.
A smaller population with African ancestry, mostly concentrated in certain neighborhoods.
Descendants of early Spanish settlers and other European immigrants, making up a minor portion of the population.
Comprises small communities of other ethnicities and nationalities, including immigrants from neighboring countries.
The Soul of Ambato
Discover the essence of Ambato through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Ambato, Ecuador, with a passionate local fanbase. The city is home to several clubs, including Técnico Universitario and Macará.
Cycling is a favored sport in Ambato, especially given the region's mountainous terrain, making it popular both as a competitive sport and a recreational activity.
Volleyball enjoys popularity among locals, with numerous recreational leagues and community events held throughout the year.
Basketball is widely played and watched in Ambato, with various local teams competing in regional leagues and schools actively promoting the sport.
Athletics, including running and track events, is encouraged in Ambato, with schools and local organizations promoting fitness and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ambato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ecuadorian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants in Ambato offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as quinoa salads, vegetable soups, and plantain-based dishes. La Casona del Cafeto and Café de la Vaca are known for their vegetarian-friendly menus.
Those with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like ceviche, grilled meats, and fresh fruit at most restaurants in Ambato. La Taberna de Tony and Restaurante El Jardín are recommended for gluten-free dining.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ambato with these cultural adventures.
