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Explore Ambato

Plan Your Trip to Ambato: Best of Ambato Tourism

Essential ambato.

Ambato Is Great For

• Hotel Emperador
• Hotel Boutique Mary Carmen
• Hotel Ambato
• Roka Plaza Hotel Boutique
• Miraflores Hotel
• Hacienda San Pedro Quisapincha
• Ali's Parilladas & Pizzeria
• Roka Plaza Restaurante
• Las Gallinas de Pinllo
• Inari Sushi Rock
• La Quinta de Juan León Mera
• Jardin Botanico Atocha-La Liria
• Mall de los Andes
• Juan Benigno Vela Park
• La Catedral de Ambato
• "Anka" Tour
• "Guagra" Tour
• Full-Day “Guambra Chagra”
• "Cunu" Horseback Riding
• Full-Day "Sisa allpapak"

Things change quickly. If you’re planning on visiting any place that we recommend, please always check the current status and opening hours directly via their website or social media.

Travel , Destination Guides , Events

An authentic Ambato Ecuador Guide (There is more to explore than the carnival)

While most people visit Ambato for the carnival, there’s so much more to this city. It has something to offer year-round, not just during festival season.

It’s a place where the beauty of the Andes meets rich cultural traditions and an underrated culinary scene. Ambato offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature to other events, unique accommodation options, and diverse cultures.

Let’s take a closer look at Ambato and see what makes it worth your time.

Content Overview

⦁ When to visit Ambato ⦁ Why visit Ambato ⦁ What to do in Ambato ⦁ What and where to eat in Ambato ⦁ Unique experiences and sustainability efforts to empower the local community ⦁ Where to stay in Ambato

When to visit Ambato

It’s always a good time to visit. What might affect your decision is whether you want to time it with any specific event. You can get an overview of the most common ones here.

While the carnival in February is a unique experience (more about it below), you’ll have a better opportunity to experience what local life is like during the low season.

You don’t have to choose though, you can always come back.😉

Why visit Ambato

Here are some of the reasons why Ambato deserves your time.

The food in Ambato is delicious

Ambato’s culinary offerings are a testament to its diversity and tradition. With local favorites like Llapingacho ambateño, Colada Morada, and the artisanal bread from Atocha (a simple iconic area for a local experience with delicious wood-fired bread and colada morada), you’re in for a treat.

Thanks to its location, Ambato has access to an incredible variety of ingredients. Everyone and everything passes through here, bringing flavors from every corner of Ecuador.

More about what and where to eat in Ambato below.

Unique experiences and sustainability efforts to empower the local community

I was happy to see Ambato’s Secretary of Tourism’s approach to sustainability, focused on collaboration with local communities and organizations to develop a model that benefits everyone.

They have initiatives in place that educate small local entrepreneurs and let them showcase their products for free at different locations. They also team up with neighboring cities like Baños .

As a result, it’s easy to have authentic experiences here. They usually combine different areas, like nature + music via live concerts with local talent in the Botanical Gardens.

Indigenous influences

The indigenous communities are a crucial part of Ambato’s identity. Their influence contributes deeply to the city’s social and cultural life. Four communities are based 30 min in different directions: Salasaka, Quisapincha, Tomabela, and Chibuleo.

Ambato is a great base to learn more about Ecuador’s interesting heritage. Different events (in addition to the carnival) also take place throughout the year that offer you a chance to experience its unique traditions and community spirit.

Shopping finds

Shopping in Ambato is great for those who know where to look. The city’s markets and shops benefit from its central location, meaning you can find everything from high-quality jeans to affordable leather goods. This abundance is due to Ambato being a hub where products from across the country are readily available.

Investment opportunities and diversity

Ambato’s economy and culture thrive on its status as a crossroads. The city’s diverse population brings a variety of cultural influences, making it a dynamic place to explore. Whether you’re interested in the arts, history, or just looking to enjoy good food, Ambato offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and potential investors alike.

Interesting history

Ambato might not have the cobblestone streets of a historic district, but its story is written in the lives of its people. The city has a remarkable history of resilience, particularly evident after the devastating earthquake in 1949 that required rebuilding much of the city from the ground up.

This event is a testament to the strength and unity of Ambato’s community. The way Ambato rose from the rubble to become the vibrant city it is today is not just interesting; it’s inspiring. It’s a place where the past and present merge, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Ecuador, showcasing a spirit of rebirth and continuous growth. Locals are proud of their home and it creates a special ambience worth coming over for!

What to do in Ambato

Apart from what has been mentioned so far, let’s dive more into some of the details.

The Carnival in Ambato: The Fruit and Flower Festival

While Ambato deserves more attention than for its carnival, it needs to be mentioned! It’s an authentic, beautiful event that gives you great insights into Ecuador’s diverse cultures.

Ambato’s Fruit and Flower Festival isn’t technically the same thing as the carnival in Ecuador. But since it takes place during the same days, it has become known as one of the best places in Ecuador to experience the carnival.

When does the carnival take place in Ambato?

While the main events take place for about 5 days in February (dates change every year so make sure to check), Ambato has an agenda that runs for over a month starting from the end of January. With different events and happenings that build up to the main event, ranging from sports competitions and agricultural exhibitions to food and art.

What to expect from the festival in Ambato

The Ambato Festival of Fruits and Flowers is a nationally recognized intangible cultural event. It started in 1950 as both a commemoration of the region’s bountiful harvest and a resilient step forward from the earthquake that hit the year before.

Streets come alive with a parade of flower floats, over 80 traditional dance groups, traditional music, delicious food, art and so much more. Every year, it just gets bigger and better.

The festivities kick off with the Proclamation of Festivities and the election of the Queen of Ambato. The blessing of Flowers, Fruits, and Bread is a highlight, followed by the parade featuring dance schools and events across the city filled with dancing, lights, and queens.

The Night Parade is a unique experience too

At night, the same parade runs again. It’s a highlight worth coming back for since everything is all lit up. I recommend you to watch it both during the day and night as they are different experiences!

The International Folklore Festival brings in talent from across the continent, alongside retro music events and international music festivals. You’ll see some unique performances here that also give you a better understanding of the diverse cultures.

Water and Foam Fights

Traditionally in Ecuador, Carnival means water and foam battles. In Ambato, foam fights have been forbidden so you’ll see less of them than in some other places. But some teenagers were running around doing it anyway. So don’t be surprised if you end up wet!

Visit the Botanical Garden

For a change of pace, Ambato’s botanical garden offers a serene escape. It’s a peaceful oasis perfect for a walk, with occasional events and a small fair inside. Keep an eye on the Tourism Secretary’s channels for updates on events.

The Museums

Ambato boasts several museums that tell the city’s and region’s stories. From art and history to science and culture. Here are a few options.

• Museo de Arte Juan León Mera: Named after the famous Ecuadorian writer and composer, this museum sits in the house where Juan León Mera once lived. It’s home to an impressive collection of art, including paintings and sculptures, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the area.
• Casa y Mausoleo de Montalvo: Dedicated to one of Ecuador’s most celebrated writers, Juan Montalvo, this museum offers a glimpse into the life and works of the literary icon. It’s an essential visit for anyone interested in Ecuadorian literature and history.
• Museo Martínez-Holguín: Another gem in Ambato, this museum is located in the former home of the Martínez-Holguín family. It features a collection of historical artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide a window into the life of prominent figures in Ambato’s history.
• Museo de la Casa del Portal: This museum is known for preserving and displaying the cultural and historical artifacts of Ambato and the Tungurahua region. From colonial furniture to pre-Columbian artifacts, it offers a comprehensive look at the area’s past.

Hiking and nature walks

Ambato is surrounded by natural beauty, including mountains, valleys, and rivers. There are different trails in the area for when you feel like switching up the scene and maybe even catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

What and where to eat in Ambato

Ambato’s food scene takes you on a journey through tradition, innovation, and the unique flavors hard to find anywhere else. Here’s where to go and what to try to get a true taste of the city.

The Legendary Cuyes of Ficoa (guinea pig)

While this might be a bit special to some (where I grew up guinea pig is a pet), it’s a highlight in Ecuador. And many locals say no visit to Ambato is complete without trying the Cuyes de Ficoa.

Prepared by locals who’ve mastered the art over years, this is more than a meal; it’s a tradition. The woman who’s been serving them up for decades? She knows how to cook them to perfection. There are two with the same name (Los Cuyes Ficoa 1 and 2), but the second one is run by the same family.

The Central Market

For a real authentic experience, head to the Central Market. Make sure to try their delicious juices (The Mora con Coco is a standout – it’s so good, it’ll have you coming back for more).

Empanadas de Morocho , filled, fried, and full of flavor, are a great example of how to turn simple ingredients into something delicious.

Llapingacho Ambateño is one of the must-tries from Ambato, made with mashed potatoes and served with chorizo, fried egg, and avocado. It’s the comfort food you didn’t know you needed until now. Better be hungry, the portion is usually big!

Cebollada , a hearty, onion-based dish, is many locals’ favorites.

Casa El Recreo (for the famous Gallinas de Pinllo)

Then there’s the iconic Gallina de Pinllo, a dish that’s been around since 1943, famously served at Casa El Recreo. This place is a legend, started by Adán Villacreses and Ernestina Lagos in 1948, to enjoy juicy chicken, served with potatoes and peanut sauce, based on their recipe passed down through generations.

It’s become such a staple in San Bartolomé de Pinllo, attracting everyone from locals to celebrities for a taste of something that’s both traditional and delicious. You can order other dishes here like guinea pig and rabbit – but the star on the menu is the gallinas.

The Legítimo Pan de Pinllo

The story of Ambato’s bread begins way back. It’s so famous in Ecuador that there’s even a local expression that goes along the lines of “You’re as good as the bread from Ambato” .

While you’ll find delicious bread across the city, The Legítimo Pan de Pinllo is one of the original places. People travel far to get here and some order it to other cities. The family recipe goes way back. Baked in wood and charcoal ovens, the bread from Pinllo – whether it’s the empanada, pan de sal, or pan de dulce – is all about tradition. Family-run, the team starts baking at the crack of dawn to produce enough of these delicious pieces of bread to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Chocolates La Tradición / Escobar

Ambato is also a dream come true for chocolate lovers. I visit Chocolates La Tradición, which has rebranded to Escobar. Run by Patricia and her daughters, a fifth-generation chocolate maker who uses up to 30 quintals of cacao each month to produce exquisite chocolates.

Everything I try here is delicious! And I try it all.

Love that it’s a family-run business managed by ambitious women with a passion for what they do. The plan is to also open a café at the fabric so you can have delicious chocolate while being surrounded by chocolate. Sounds like perfection to me!

Make sure to stop by here during your visit. You’ll feel welcome and leave happy.

Helados de Ficoa

The ice creams from Ficoa is another sweet option unique in the area. When driving to Ambato, you’ll see pretty girls lining up along the road to sell them. A special experience with cars stopping at different stands to buy ice cream.

You can also get it across the city.

And there is more food in Ambato to discover! Here’s a more detailed gastronomy guide to Ambato from the Secretary of Tourism (in Spanish).

Where to stay in Ambato

Mary carmen: an icon and one of the best places to see the parade.

Mary Carmen is one of the most-known hotels in Ambato, thanks to its founder Doña Mary Carmen. A visionary designer known for her creative outfits, especially those designed for the Carnival for more than 20 years. She has built an empire that celebrates local culture and female empowerment.

The hotel is renowned for its thematic floors, each representing an animal (I stay on the Tiger floor, all of them are beautiful!) and leadership. With 51 distinct rooms, ensuring no two visits are alike. I’m staying in one of the smaller rooms since I came here last minute during the carnival. The comfort here is still top-notch, from the beds to the detailed decor, like the wall paintings that guests adore.

Its strategic location offers unparalleled views of the parade from a balcony on the 3rd floor and a space by the entrance, perfect for enjoying the night event comfortably.

The breakfast is delicious, with a variety of local breads like empanadas, fresh fruit juice, and a selection of breakfast staples, all enjoyed to the backdrop of relaxing music.

The brand represents much more than a place to stay. They have a boutique with unique designs and even a sex shop, showcasing their flair for the bold and unique. They are also organizing big events. Celebrating over a decade, Mary Carmen has become a symbol of tradition and the best of Ambato’s hospitality.

Hotel Kapital: Enjoy a suite with jacuzzi in the heart of Ambato

Hotel Kapital offers a blend of comfort, style, and convenience right in the center of Ambato. It’s particularly known for its friendly atmosphere and varied accommodations that cater to families, friends, and solo travelers alike. The suites, equipped with jacuzzis, are spacious and offer a luxurious touch to your stay, making it perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring the city or attending the vibrant Carnival.

Despite its central location, Hotel Kapital manages to maintain a peaceful ambiance, ensuring a good night’s sleep. The service here is familiar and personalized, reflecting the warm hospitality Ambato is known for. Enjoy the breakfast with fresh bread, jam, eggs and coffee.

For those looking to stay active or unwind, Hotel Kapital features a small workout area and a spa. Whether you choose a suite (loved mine!), double room, or something else, you’ll find the accommodations flexible to your needs.

Hotel Dubai: Simple, elegant, with personalized service

Hotel Dubai stands out for its simple elegance and the story of its founder, Jorge, who transitioned from being a mechanic to creating one of Ambato’s most welcoming hotels.

The team at Hotel Dubai, adds a personal touch to the service, aiming to make every guest’s stay as satisfying as possible. With 45 rooms offering a range of options from single to matrimonial and suites, Hotel Dubai caters to a diverse clientele, from middle-high commercial visitors to tourists and couples.

What sets Hotel Dubai apart is its commitment to personalized service to ensure guest satisfaction, welcoming feedback, and making improvements. The hotel also serves as a venue for various events, from weddings to conferences, in its spacious auditorium and event salons, showcasing its versatility beyond just accommodation.

It’s located a bit outside of the center (5 min with a taxi) but it also makes it extra peaceful.

Hostal Runa Huasi: An indigenous community stay outside of town

Started in 2000 by Alonso and his wife from the Salasaka community, Runa Huasi provides a peek into their indigenous culture. While both are from the area, Alonso used to work as a craftsman at markets in Quito. Initially inspired by his interactions with curious visitors who asked about his craft and lifestyle, he came up with the idea: Why not invite them to my place? Allowing guests to delve deeper into the traditions and craftsmanship representing his culture. And so Runa Huasi was introduced.

Situated in a picturesque setting with gorgeous natural views, Runa Huasi offers both shared dorms and private rooms. Alonso and his wife cook and will make you feel at home. You can choose whether you’d like to spend time together and share stories or have more privacy. You can also try other experiences like purification rituals with native plants, learn more about their craft, and go for hikes in the area.

Alonso also took me to a village party. I was probably the only one who wasn’t from the area. Danced with locals, got covered in flour, and got an egg thrown in my head (was right after the carnival). Unique for sure! 😂

Are you ready to visit Ambato?

Wrapping up, Ambato is more than just its Carnival. It’s a city alive throughout the year, offering a mix of nature, culture, and unique food. From quiet spots in nature to lively cultural events and cozy places to stay, there’s a lot to explore.

The only question now is, when are you coming over?

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Address Details: Street Number: 250 Street Name: Calle Nazacota Puento Municipality: Ambato Country Secondary Subdivision: Ambato Country Subdivision: Tungurahua Country Code: EC Country: Ecuador Country Code ISO3: ECU Freeform Address: Calle Nazacota Puento 250 Ambato, Tungurahua, 180202 Local Name: Ambato View Port: Top Left: -1.24692,-78.62766 Bottom Right: -1.24872,-78.62586 Entry Point: main: -1.24782,-78.62673

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9 Top Things To Do in Ambato, Ecuador

Ambato may not be as well-known as other cities in Ecuador, but don’t be deceived. Ambato is a modest but lovely emerging tourist spot worth a visit. Some of the interesting things to do and places to visit at this secret getaway will astound you.

We’ve compiled a list of things to do in Ambato and the surrounding area. We have a feeling you’ll be glad you did if you include this city in your vacation plans.

Be Awed in Miraflores

Miraflores, Ambato’s most quaint, peculiar, and traditional neighborhood, is also one of the area’s oldest settlements. Its growth coincided with the construction of the railway that connected the town to Quito around the turn of the twentieth century. Although this railway is no longer in service, it has left behind a flourishing and interesting neighborhood.

The region is mostly residential, with extensive orchards and gardens displaying Ambato’s natural resources. One of the interesting things we noticed while exploring this area is that all of the streets in this neighborhood are named after flowers. 

Join the Fun at La Fiesta de las Flores y de las Frutas

Photo from Wikipedia

Fruit cultivation in Ambato and the surrounding area of Ecuador is well known locally. When eaten straight off the tree, Ambato-grown peaches are reputed to be among the greatest in the world.

If you prefer to party, you might want to plan your trip to coincide with the “ Carnival of Flowers and Fruits ,” when locals and visitors alike party till the break of morning. It was a shame we did not get to experience this festival but locals said that they hold a stream of parades, outdoor performances, beauty pageants, bullfights, and street fairs featuring portable amusement park rides for two whole weeks. 

The exact dates when this festival occurs vary, but it often takes place between the middle of February and the beginning of March, just before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. They correspond with regular Latin American Carnaval times. It would be nice to come back here and see this festival.

Visit Juan Montalvo’s Mausoleum

This mausoleum was one of Ambato’s first and most impressive constructions. We saw how the unique architecture of the façade, as well as its use of traditional local building materials, serve to highlight how skilled many early Ecuadorian architects were.

The structure represents a turning point in the city’s accelerating urbanization. Ambato has seen a number of significant administrative and political events in the area. The imposing stone building is a must-see while sightseeing because it is located in the heart of the city’s historic district.

See the Casa del Portal

The famed Casa del Portal is another venerable but stunning structure engraved into the Ambato landscape.

We were awed by the structure of this building. Colonial architecture is emblematic of South American growth in the nineteenth century and it reflects in this building. The location is now considered an important aspect of Ambato’s unique history.

Explore the Cevallos Park

Cevallos Park was previously known as Plaza de San Bartolomé. This park was the town’s second square and serves an important function as a gathering area. It was named honoring local scholar Pedro Fermin Cevallos.

We stopped by this park to sit on the benches after a tiring day of wandering around Ambato.

Shop at Mercado Central and Mercado Modelo

Markets in Ambato are renowned. These are active traditional markets where locals and people from the highlands trade goods. Fruits and flowers are particularly well-known in the city. Monday is the busiest trading day, followed closely by Wednesday and Friday.

Every day of the week, Ambato’s bustling Mercados Central and Modelo offers a wide selection of goods. A block northeast of Parque 12 de Noviembre on Avenida 12 de Noviembre is where you’ll find the Mercado Central. On the other hand, Mercado Modelo is situated about two blocks northeast of Parque Cevallos, on the southeast side of Avenida Cevallos.

Vendors swarm the downtown streets surrounding these two marketplaces on Mondays and other market days.

Explore Atocha and Have a Taste of Their Empanada

Ambato’s Atocha parish was one of the first to be established. For many years, it straddled the Quito-bound railway. It has a fascinating cultural history. Some of Ecuador’s most famous and respected families have had properties in this area.

It is thought that much of Ecuador’s modern culture was formed in this region, including superb literature, artwork, and even the country’s national hymn!

If you enjoy empanadas, Atocha serves some of the best food in Ecuador ! The empanadas indeed have a distinct taste compared to the ones I have tried in other cities.

Visit the Museum of the Bolivar Higher Technical Institute

This museum’s roots are in the natural sciences, but it is now a boldly multidisciplinary organization. The museum is a window into Ecuador’s history as well as the science that underpins its flora and fauna.

I was hesitant to visit this museum at first because I’m not fond of antiques and other historical items. But if you’re interested in history and culture, like my trip buddy, it’s worth stopping by.

Buy Souvenirs and Handicrafts at Quisapincha

Quisapincha is without a doubt the best location in Ambato to visit if you’re looking for handcrafted, artisan goods. It is particularly well-known for its leather goods, which include coats, shoes, jeans, caps, and other accessories.

Quisapincha is an excellent location for bargain hunting. Prices are much lower than in major shopping districts in cities such as Quito. I was able to buy a pair of leather shoes which costs half the amount it is normally priced.

Bottom Line

Ambato is a charming town in Ecuador. This area is well-known for its flowers and fruits. While the area remains “off the usual path” for tourists, it is now receiving more international travelers than ever before as the reputation of its charming and friendly atmosphere spreads.

If you’re traveling to Ecuador and want to see something off the beaten path, consider including Ambato on your itinerary.

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About the author.

Oleg Galeev

I'm Oleg, and together with my wife, we've explored Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, journeying through more than 20 cities ( Quito , Cuenca , Banos , Tena , Puyo , Guayaquil , Riobamba , Otavalo , Mindo and more) and nearly every island in the Galapagos (including iconic ones such as Bartolome Island , San Cristobal Island , Isabela Island , Santa Cruz Island and more). In this blog, I give you my real thoughts about each place we visited. This info can help anyone planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands or mainland Ecuador . I'm just a traveler, not a tour company, so I'm not trying to sell anything. That means I'll tell you the truth—both the good and the bad — about traveling in Ecuador based on what we experienced.

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Top 20 Places to See in Ambato, Ecuador

•  Iglesia de San Antonio
•  Iglesia de San Francisco
•  Iglesia de San José
•  Iglesia de San Juan Bautista
•  Iglesia de San Miguel
•  Iglesia de San Pedro
•  Iglesia de San Roque
•  Iglesia de San Sebastián
•  Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús
•  Museo de la Ciudad
•  Parque El Arenal
•  Parque El Paraíso
•  Parque El Parque
•  Parque El Parque de la Amistad
•  Parque El Parque de la Juventud
•  Parque El Parque de la Libertad
•  Parque El Parque de la Paz
•  Parque El Parque de la Solidaridad
•  Parque El Parque de la Unidad
•  Parque La Libertad

•  Galápagos National Park
•  Machalilla National Park
•  Podocarpus National Park
•  Sangay National Park
•  Yasuní National Park
•  Babahoyo
•  Cuenca
•  Esmeraldas
•  Guayaquil
•  Ibarra
•  Latacunga
•  Machala
•  Manta
•  Milagro
•  Pasaje
•  Portoviejo
•  Quevedo
•  Riobamba
•  Santo Domingo de los Colorados
•  Tulcán
•  Vinces
•  Ambato
•  Quito
•  Banos
•  Chimborazo
•  El Angel Ecological Reserve
•  El Cajas
•  Galapagos Islands
•  Ingapirca
•  Isla de la Plata
•  La Mitad del Mundo
•  Mindo
•  Mompiche
•  Montanita
•  Otavalo
•  Puerto Lopez
•  San Francisco de Quito

Ambato is a nice city, the capital of the Tungurahua province. It is the major hub for travelers heading from Quito to Riobamba o Guayaquil. Ambato's full name is "San Juan de Ambato". Known as the "City of Flowers and Fruits" - "Ciudad de las Flores y las Frutas" in Spanish, due to the great variety of fruits produced in this city. Also, known as "Land of the Three Juans" for being the birthplace Juan Montalvo, Juan León Mera, and Juan Benigno Vela. All three Juans are important characters in the history and literature of Ecuador. Their statues are all around in Ambato's parks, museums, and buildings. About the altitude, Ambato has an elevation of ‎8,455 feet (2,577 meters) above sea level.

One of the main attractions of Ambato is the Fruit and Flowers Festival. This takes place the last two weeks of February, around Carnival. The festival consists of the blessing of bread and fruits in the main cathedral. Another holiday is the Independence of Ambato on November 12. Other attractions are the 10 de Agosto Plaza, the House of Juan Montalvo, and Juan Montalvo Park. Near the Cathedral are some nice buildings.

Climate is nice year-round. Usually, days are warm and nights are cool. The average temperature typically varies from 47°F to 69°F (8°C to 21°C) and is rarely below 43°F (6°C) or above 73°F (23°C). There are only two seasons: rainy and dry. Dry season goes from June to December, while the rainy season goes from January to May. April is the rainiest month. The best time of year to visit Ambato for warm-weather activities is from March to December.

Facts & Information

Language: spanish currency: us dollar, location: south america country: ‎ ecuador region: andes province: tungurahua, ‎‎ dial code: +593 3 time zone: utc-5 postal code: 180150 elevation: 8,455 ft (2,577 m), temperature: 47°-69°f (8°-21°c) weather / climate.

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Map location, places to go, things to do, short excursions, photos / images / 360 street view.

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Need more information about traveling to Ecuador? Click here to see more Ecuador travel maps  or  Click here to see more resources on how to prepare your trip.

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Best Things To Do in Ambato, Ecuador

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Ambato.

Ambato may not be as popular as other cities in Ecuador, but don’t let that fool you. Ambato is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Ambato.

If you have plans to visit Ecuador and are not sure if Ambato should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Ambato and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

• Leisure Activities in Ambato

Tourist Attractions in Ambato

Here is the list of things to do in Ambato and tourist attractions in city.

Chachoan Airport

Address: Chachoan Airport Av. Los Andes y Av. Eloy Alfaro Ambato, Ecuador

Mall De Los Andes

Parque provincial de la familia, 12 de noviembre park, cevallos park, complejo turistico revolution, artesanias "el cuencano", parque montalvo.

• Things to do in Vilcabamba
• Things to do in Riobamba
• What to do in Ambato in 1 day
• What to do in Ambato in 2 days

Travel Guide

• Things to Do
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• Planning a Trip

Planning a Trip in Ambato

Getting There

By Bus -- Buses frequently leave Quito's main bus terminal, Terminal Terrestre, heading south along the Pan-American Highway to Ambato. Cooperativa Ambato (tel. 02/2570-038 in Quito, or 03/2849-504 in Ambato) and Cooperativa Transandina (tel. 02/2572-265 in Quito, or 03/2849-566 in Ambato) are the main bus lines, although another half-dozen or so companies are in the mix, with buses leaving roughly every 5 minutes between 3am and midnight. The ride takes about 2 1/2 hours and costs $2.50 (£1.65). From Ambato there are frequent bus connections to most other major destinations around Ecuador.

The main bus terminal in Ambato, Terminal Terrestre (tel. 03/2520-859 ), is located a little over 1.5km (1 mile) northeast of downtown, on Avenida de las Américas and Colombia. Frequent local buses connect the bus terminal and downtown Ambato -- look for a bus that says CENTRO. The fare should be around 25¢ (17p). You can also take one of the many taxis you will find waiting at the bus terminal; a ride anywhere in Ambato should not exceed $2 (£1.35), and most rides are just $1 (65p).

By Car -- To reach Ambato by car, head south out of Quito on the Pan-American Highway (E35). The ride takes around 2 hours. There's a bypass around Ambato, but the Pan-American Highway itself, and most of the flow of traffic, actually goes right through downtown on its way south and toward Riobamba.

Orientation

If you enter Ambato from the north, you'll pass by a traffic circle with the sculpture of a large, naked woman holding some flowers and welcoming you to the city. The main downtown area is bounded by the parallel avenidas Rocafuerte and 12 de Noviembre, and by the calles Sevilla and Olmedo. All the city's major parks, churches, and markets are found within this compact area.

Getting Around

The city is large, spread out, and located on relatively hilly terrain, making walking long distances problematic. Luckily, taxis are abundant and inexpensive. If you can't simply flag one down, call Cooperativa Taxi Amigos (tel. 03/2417-900 ) or Taxi Ejecutivo (tel. 03/2418-000 ).

Ambato has an extensive network of local urban buses. For most tourists the only bus route of importance is the one between downtown and the main bus terminal. Buses from the center to the bus station are marked TERMINAL, and leave from the south side of Parque Cevallos. From the terminal to downtown, look for buses marked CENTRO.

Visitor Information

The Ministry of Tourism runs a friendly tourist information office (tel. 03/2821-800 ), on Rocafuerte and Guayaquil, next to the Hotel Ambato . They can provide information on local attractions and tours.

To reach the police, dial tel. 101 or 03/2415-558. The main office is on Av. Atahualpa 568 and Avenida Quis Quis. The Hospital Provincial Docente Ambato (tel. 03/2821-058 ) is on Avenida Unidad Nacional and Pasteur.

You'll find the main branch of Banco de Guayaquil (tel. 03/2823-774 ) on the corner of Mera and Sucre. The main branch of Banco Pichincha (tel. 03/2422-031 ) is at Lalama 3-20 and Cevallos. ATMs can be found scattered around the city. The post office (tel. 03/2823-332 ) is located on Bolívar and Castillo.

Internet cafes abound in Ambato, especially around downtown and Parque Montalvo. I like the fast connections at Cyber Café (tel. 03/2425-634 ). Hourly rates cost around $1 (65p).

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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