Things To Do
in Tulcán
Tulcán is a cool highland city in Ecuador's Carchi province, perched near the Colombian border. It serves as a gateway to Andean landscapes and agricultural communities, with a distinctly northern Ecuadorian character. The city is known for its striking cemetery with sculpted topiary and for its proximity to lush páramo and cloud forests.
Visitors will find friendly locals, a relaxed pace, and a range of day trips into the surrounding highlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Ecuadorian coffee and pastries. Afterward, stroll through the historic center of Tulcán, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant street art that tells the story of this charming city. Don't forget to visit the iconic Tulcán Cathedral, where you can appreciate its stunning facade and the peaceful ambiance inside.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Ecuadorian dishes at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample local favorites like hornado or llapingachos. Post-lunch, explore the bustling local markets filled with colorful handicrafts, spices, and fresh produce, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Take your time to interact with the friendly vendors who are eager to share their stories and products.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk through the Parque de la Paz, where you can relax by the serene lake and observe the local wildlife. For dinner, choose a cozy eatery that specializes in regional cuisine, allowing you to continue your culinary adventure. Cap off the evening with a stroll through the vibrant streets, taking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for a drink at a local bar.
Start your day with a visit to the famous Tulcán Cemetery, known for its elaborate topiary gardens and intricate sculptures. As you wander through this unique resting place, take time to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that has gone into creating these beautiful living sculptures. The morning light enhances the vibrant greenery, making it a perfect time for photography.
After your cemetery visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local dishes that showcase the rich culinary heritage of Ecuador. Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby botanical gardens, where you can learn about the diverse flora of the region and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Don't miss the chance to relax by the pond and watch the various birds that inhabit the area.
Return to the city center for dinner at a restaurant specializing in seafood, where you can enjoy fresh ceviche and other coastal delicacies. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the town, stopping at local shops to browse for artisanal crafts and souvenirs. As night falls, find a cozy spot to enjoy a drink and reflect on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi (short urban ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Andean culture and warm hospitality
- Stunning highland scenery within a short drive
- Accessible topiary cemetery and photogenic landscapes
- Relatively affordable travel in urban and rural settings
- Limited nightlife compared to coastal cities
- Hilly terrain and uneven sidewalks in older parts of town
- Some services or English proficiency may be limited outside the city center
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Tulcán
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic hedges and sculpted figures create striking geometric portraits; best at early morning or late afternoon for soft light.
Ridge-line viewpoints along the highway around Tulcán offer sweeping Andean vistas and dramatic cloud textures, especially in the early morning.
Food in Tulcán
Tulcán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smashed potato cakes filled with cheese, usually served with peanut sauce, eggs, and chorizo. A staple in highland Ecuador with wide availability in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled trout from nearby streams, often served with plantains, fried yucca, or potatoes—fresh, simple, and flavorful.
Rotisserie pork that's tender on the inside with crisp skin, frequently accompanied by mote, tortillas, and achiote sauces.
Corn-based tamales steamed in husks, often brushed with cheese or butter and enjoyed as a snack or side dish.
A warm, maize-based beverage or porridge variant, sometimes served as a sweet treat in markets and family kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy produce, cheese, bread, and prepared foods. Sample empanadas, roasted maize, and fresh fruit while chatting with vendors.
Accessible throughout the week; look for arepas, frituras, and simple soups sold by small carts along the main avenues.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; a polite handshake is common. Show respect in religious sites and dress modestly when visiting churches.
People are generally friendly and patient; small talk and smiling are welcome. Avoid discussing sensitive topics in first meetings.
Safety
Tipping in Tulcán
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in smaller establishments. A 5–10% tip for good service in restaurants is common if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Credit/debit cards are accepted in urban shops and many hotels; carry some cash for markets and informal vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear days with cool nights and dry weather; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography. Expect crisp air and bright skies, but bring layers for the chilly evenings.
Regular rain showers, especially in afternoons. Trails may be slippery; rain gear and waterproof footwear are recommended. Lush green landscapes and dramatic clouds are common.
Tulcán at Night
Hiking in Tulcán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible day hikes at high altitude with striking vistas and unique flora; involve cloud forest pockets and open grasslands.
Lush, biodiverse forested areas ideal for birdwatching and nature photography; hire a local guide for safety and navigation.
Pastoral hills and scenic overlooks along country lanes; best explored with a vehicle or a reputable tour operator.
Airports
How to reach Tulcán by plane.
Closest international gateway to the Tulcán area; border crossing at Rumichaca connects you to northern Ecuador.
Major international hub serving northern Ecuador; further afield than PSO but well connected.
Another major hub in southern Ecuador; longer distance but useful for planning itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents identify as Mestizo with mixed Indigenous and European ancestry, reflecting regional cultural blends.
Visible Indigenous presence in rural areas; traditional crafts and languages may be maintained in nearby villages.
Proximity to Colombia brings cross-border commerce and families who travel for work or visits.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Ecuador, with local pickup games and community leagues in towns and schools.
Common in schools and community centers; casual street games and local tournaments occur in plazas.
Played in parks, schools, and clubs; often part of youth activities and recreational leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tulcán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy andouille-free potato dishes, corn-based meals, fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. When ordering, ask for oil-free cooking or butter substitutes and request plant-based sauces when possible.