Things To Do
in Zaruma
Zaruma is a charming and historic town nestled in the southern region of Ecuador. Known for its rich gold mining history, Zaruma features well-preserved colonial architecture and picturesque cobblestone streets. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning panoramic views of the countryside.
Visitors can explore the local museums, enjoy traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, and immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere of Zaruma.
- "¿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): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Plaza Central, where you can enjoy the beautiful colonial architecture. Grab a breakfast at a local café and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the Zaruma Gold Mine for a guided tour to learn about its rich history and mining techniques. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant serving traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
Stroll through the charming streets of Zaruma and witness the stunning sunset views from the viewpoint. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner in one of the local eateries.
Kick off your adventure with a hike in the nearby Parque Nacional Cajas, where you can explore its diverse flora and fauna. Pack a light snack to enjoy amidst nature.
Head back to Zaruma for a late lunch, then visit a local artisan market to shop for handcrafted souvenirs. Interact with locals and understand their crafts.
Unwind by enjoying a cozy bonfire or relax in a local bar with live music. Taste the region's traditional drink while mingling with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful architecture with colonial influence.
- Stunning natural landscapes surrounding the town.
- Charming and friendly local community.
- Significant mining history with unique geological formations.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other regions.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Potential safety concerns in certain areas.
- Infrastructure may be lacking or in need of improvement.
- Economic reliance on mining can lead to fluctuations in job stability.
- Risk of natural disasters like landslides due to mountainous terrain.
- Some areas may have limited healthcare facilities.
Best Activities in Zaruma
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems in Cajas National Park, located just a few hours from Zaruma. Hike along ancient trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of mountains and lakes.
Take a walking tour of Zaruma's charming historical center, where you can admire colonial architecture, visit local shops, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this picturesque town.
Visit the nearby cloud forests to discover a rich variety of bird species and unique flora. Guided tours are available for a more in-depth experience of the local wildlife.
Adventure into the mysterious Tayos Cave, known for its fascinating geological formations and historical significance. This activity is for those looking for a thrilling exploration experience.
Explore the rich mining history of Zaruma by visiting one of the local gold mines. Learn about traditional mining techniques and the significance of gold to the region's economy.
Participate in local festivals and cultural events throughout the year, where you can enjoy traditional music, dance, and culinary delights that showcase the heritage of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zaruma with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zaruma
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
A picturesque waterfall located just outside the town, providing a beautiful natural setting for photography and relaxation.
A charming square in the heart of Zaruma, featuring vibrant colors and beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of the town.
A delightful street adorned with flowers and historical buildings, perfect for taking colorful and unique photos.
A hilltop with a cross that offers one of the highest viewpoints in Zaruma, providing sweeping views of the town and surrounding area at sunset.
Food in Zaruma
Zaruma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious fish tamale wrapped in a banana leaf, typically served with peanut sauce. Can be found at traditional markets or local eateries.
Must-Try!
A stew made from beef tripe, potatoes, and peanuts, seasoned with achiote. Best enjoyed at family-run restaurants in Zaruma.
A hearty breakfast dish made with mashed green plantains, eggs, cheese, and typically served with avocado. Available at local breakfast spots and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of local flavors. Visitors can explore stalls offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of street food like empanadas and choclos con queso.
Known for its street food vendors, this street offers a wide array of treats, including ceviche, tamales, and much more.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Zaruma, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and family. Make sure to greet everyone when entering a room as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting local places of worship or attending formal events. While casual wear is common, wearing neat and tidy clothing is seen as a sign of respect.
When dining with locals, wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating. It is polite to finish everything on your plate to show appreciation for the meal. Additionally, it is customary to share food and drinks among guests.
Safety
Tipping in Zaruma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zaruma, Ecuador, tipping is common in the service industry, though it is not obligatory. It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants if the service was satisfactory. In some cases, a service charge may already be included in the bill, so it's advisable to check before tipping. Tipping is also appreciated by taxi drivers and hotel staff, though the amounts are usually smaller.
Payment methods in Zaruma generally include cash, with the US dollar being the official currency. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments like hotels and some restaurants, but it is recommended to carry cash for smaller shops and street vendors. Mobile payment options are becoming more popular, especially among younger patrons, though cash remains the predominant method of payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Zaruma, where you can expect sunny days and mild temperatures. Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the town's colonial architecture.
This season experiences frequent rain, especially in the afternoons. While the landscape is lush and vibrant, visitors should be prepared for wet weather. It is less crowded, allowing for a more serene experience.
February is marked by local festivals, where visitors can experience vibrant culture, music, and parades. It's an excellent time to immerse in the local traditions while enjoying relatively pleasant weather.
Zaruma at Night
Hiking in Zaruma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent hill near Zaruma offering scenic views and a variety of trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
A national park offering numerous hiking trails through diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes, located within driving distance from Zaruma.
Located a bit further away, this reserve provides an array of hiking options in a protected forest environment, ideal for nature lovers.
An ecological reserve that features hiking trails surrounded by biodiversity, offering opportunities for bird watching and exploring waterfalls.
Offering beautiful landscapes and hiking paths, Cajamarca is a nearby area with opportunities for exploring natural beauty and local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Zaruma by plane.
Located in Guayaquil, this is the largest international airport in the region and serves multiple international destinations.
Situated in Manta, this airport caters to international flights and is a hub for several airlines.
Located in Quito, this airport offers a wide range of international flight options and is one of the busiest in the country.
Positioned in Caliera, it serves both domestic and limited international destinations, making it a regional airport of note.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Zaruma, primarily made up of mixed European and Indigenous ancestries.
This group includes various Indigenous communities native to the region, preserving their cultural heritage.
A smaller demographic group with African ancestry, contributing to the cultural diversity of Zaruma.
Primarily descendants of Spanish settlers and other European immigrants, though they make up a smaller percentage of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Zaruma, with many local teams and a strong community following.
A widely enjoyed sport, especially among women and youth, with many informal and organized matches.
Gaining popularity, particularly in schools and among younger populations, with local courts available.
An outdoor activity popular in the hilly areas surrounding Zaruma, with both recreational and competitive biking events.
Includes running, walking, and other track and field events, often organized in schools and community sports events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zaruma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Zaruman cuisine often features meat, many restaurants and cafés are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets, offering dishes based on local produce and plant-based ingredients.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find options such as fresh salads, grilled meats, and dishes made from corn or yuca in various eateries across Zaruma.