Guano
,Guano is a small town located in the Chimborazo province of Ecuador. It is known for its picturesque surroundings, with views of mountains and lush greenery. The town has a rich history, with colonial architecture and cultural traditions.
Guano is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby natural attractions.
- "¿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): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Guano's Natural Beauty
morning
:Start your day with a hike in the picturesque Cajas National Park. The fresh air and breathtaking views will rejuvenate your spirit.
afternoon
:Visit the local artisan crafts market in Guano. You'll find unique hand-made goods and can interact with local vendors.
evening
:Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian dinner at a local restaurant. The flavors of the region come alive in every bite.
Adventure Awaits in Guano
morning
:Go horseback riding through the scenic hills around Guano. It's a fantastic way to see the landscape and connect with nature.
afternoon
:Explore the ruins of the Incan sites nearby. The rich history will offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
evening
:Relax at your accommodation and enjoy local music. Experience the warm culture of Guano through its melodies.
Highlights
Good
- Rich in nutrients: Guano is an excellent organic fertilizer, high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for plant growth.
- Sustainable resource: The collection of guano can be done sustainably, particularly when managed properly to avoid over-harvesting.
- Improves soil health: Guano enhances soil structure and encourages beneficial microbial activity, leading to healthier crops.
- Cost-effective: As a natural fertilizer, guano can be more economical than synthetic fertilizers, reducing overall agricultural costs.
Bad
- Limited availability: Guano can only be harvested in certain regions, making it less accessible for farmers in other areas.
- Environmental concerns: Improper harvesting can lead to ecosystem damage and decline in bird populations.
- Variable quality: The nutrient content of guano can vary significantly based on its source, leading to inconsistent results for farmers.
- Potential for contamination: Guano can harbor pathogens, which may pose risks to human and animal health if not properly handled.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking to Pailón del Diablo
Embark on a scenic hike to the breathtaking Pailón del Diablo waterfall, where you can enjoy stunning views and the sound of rushing water.
Bird watching in Cach Ecuador Ecological Reserve
Explore the diverse ecosystem of the Cach Ecuador Ecological Reserve, which is home to numerous bird species and offers trails for observing local wildlife.
Visit the Cuenca River
Enjoy a leisurely day by the Cuenca River, where you can engage in activities like kayaking, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water.
Mountain biking
Take on the thrill of mountain biking through the rugged terrains surrounding Guano, ideal for both beginners and experienced riders.
Cultural tours in Guano
Experience local culture by visiting artisan towns nearby, where you can learn about traditional weaving and pottery.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Guano with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Cañón del Guayingue
This stunning canyon offers breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, making it an ideal spot for photography and nature lovers.
Chicsha Waterfall
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by verdant forests, Chicsha provides a perfect backdrop for photos, especially during the rainy season when the waterfall is at its fullest.
Mirador de Guano
An observation point that showcases panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for capturing the beauty of the Ecuadorian landscape.
Cerro de La Cruz
This hilltop offers an elevated viewpoint with stunning vistas of Guano and the surrounding area, ideal for sunset photography.
Playas de Guano
The riverbank in Guano features scenic spots where visitors can capture the tranquil flow of the river against the backdrop of the Andes.
Pueblo de Guano
The charming streets of Guano, with its colonial architecture and vibrant ambiance, provide excellent opportunities for street photography.
Mirador de la Virgen
A viewpoint that offers a stunning perspective of the valley and the town, with the added charm of a statue of the Virgin Mary overlooking the area.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hornado
A succulent roasted pork dish, marinated in a mixture of flavorful spices, and slow-cooked to perfection. It is typically served with mote (hominy) and llapingachos (potato patties). Must-try at 'El Hornado de Empanadas' restaurant.
Must-Try!
Llapingachos
These savory potato patties are a staple in Ecuadorian cuisine. They are made with mashed potatoes and stuffed with cheese, then pan-fried until crispy. Sample this dish at 'Mercado Central de Guano' or 'Doña Mary's Comedor.'
Locro de Papa
A hearty potato and cheese soup with a rich, creamy texture, garnished with avocado and served with a side of toasted corn kernels. Best enjoyed at 'Casa de la Hacienda Restaurant.'
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Central de Guano
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local treats, from freshly baked empanadas to colorful fruit stalls. Don't miss the stalls selling traditional tamales and humitas.
Plaza de la Independencia
The plaza comes alive with street food vendors offering a variety of snacks such as quimbolitos (sweet steamed corn cakes), llapingachos, and fritada (fried pork).
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Guano, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a light hug among friends. A polite greeting when entering a home is essential, and using titles like 'Señor' or 'Señora' shows respect.
Dining Etiquette
When dining with locals, wait for the host to invite you to begin eating. It is polite to say 'Buen provecho' (enjoy your meal) when you see someone eating. Also, it’s important to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and avoid putting your hands in your lap.
Personal Space
Ecuadorians tend to stand closer during conversations than is typical in some other cultures. However, be mindful of individual preferences for personal space and be respectful if someone seems uncomfortable with proximity.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Guano, Ecuador, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a tip in restaurants, typically around 10% of the total bill if the service was satisfactory. Tipping may also be practiced in other service industries, such as taxis and hotels, although the amounts can vary widely based on the quality of service and the local customs.
Payment
Payment practices in Guano, Ecuador, include the use of cash as the predominant method of transaction, especially in smaller shops and markets. However, credit and debit card payments have become more common in restaurants and larger retail establishments. In recent years, mobile payment systems are also gaining popularity. It's important for visitors to carry small denominations of Ecuadorian currency (U.S. dollars are widely accepted) as many places may not have change for larger bills.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (June to September)
The dry season in Guano offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, hiking, and exploring local attractions. Expect clear skies and sunny days, perfect for sightseeing.
Wet Season (October to May)
During the wet season, Guano experiences frequent rain showers, particularly in the afternoons. While the landscape is lush and vibrant, outdoor activities may be affected by the weather. Expect higher humidity and warm temperatures; it's a good time for enjoying the local culture and indoor attractions.
Festival Season (February)
February is characterized by various local festivals, including Carnival, which feature vibrant parades and cultural activities. Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere filled with music, dance, and traditional food, providing a unique cultural experience.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cajas National Park
A beautiful national park known for its stunning lakes, diverse ecosystems, and hiking trails that range from easy to challenging.
Río Caoní Trail
A scenic trail that follows the Río Caoní, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forested areas.
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve
Home to the Chimborazo volcano, this reserve offers various hiking trails with opportunities to see unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Quilotoa Loop
A popular multi-day hike that circles the stunning Quilotoa crater lake, providing incredible views and cultural experiences in the local villages.
El Cajas Twin Lakes
A network of trails that lead to beautiful twin lakes in the Cajas region, perfect for day hikes with amazing scenery.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Guano by plane.
Ecuador José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE)
Located in Guayaquil, approximately 170 km southwest of Guano. It is the main airport serving the Guayas region and handles both domestic and international flights.
Ecuador Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO)
Located in Quito, about 240 km northeast of Guano. It is the main airport serving the capital city and offers a variety of international and domestic destinations.
Ecuador Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MCH)
Located in Manta, roughly 300 km west of Guano. It serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the key airports in the Manabí province.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mestizo
Mestizos are individuals of mixed indigenous and European ancestry, making up the majority of the population in Guano.
Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous groups, including the Kichwa and other tribal communities, have a presence in Guano, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Afro-Ecuadorians
This demographic group descends from enslaved Africans brought to Ecuador, contributing to the cultural landscape of Guano.
European Descendants
People of European descent, primarily Spanish, who have settled in the region, adding to its historical and cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Guano, Ecuador, with a passionate local following and several professional and amateur clubs in the region.
Volleyball
Volleyball is widely played in Guano, both indoors and on the beach, often enjoyed by young people and in community tournaments.
Cycling
Cycling is popular both for recreation and competitive racing, with many trails and events organized in and around Guano.
Basketball
Basketball has a growing presence in Guano, with local leagues and teams contributing to its rising popularity among the youth.
Biking
Biking, especially mountain biking, is popular due to the varied terrain and scenic landscapes around Guano.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Andean cuisine leans heavily on meats and dairy, many restaurants and markets in Guano offer vegetarian options like fresh salads, vegetable tamales, and quinoa-based dishes. 'Doña Mary's Comedor' is known for its variety of vegetarian tamales.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors requiring gluten-free options can enjoy dishes such as ceviche made with maize instead of wheat, and easily find corn-based snacks like tostado (toasted corn). When dining out, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs to ensure a pleasant experience.