Discover the charming town of Guano, declared a Magic City in Ecuador, celebrating its rich history, culture and artisanal heritage.
Guano features stunning scenery with the famous Chimborazo backdrop, following the route of the Last Hielero, Baltazar Ushca. Immerse yourself in ancient traditions upheld by skilled carpet weavers, discover history at the ruins of the Monastery of La Asuncion or the city museum, and enjoy local gastronomy with a cola and fritada.
Take a Trip from Riobamba to visit guano To explore the sights, history and delicious local cuisine.
How to get to guano from Riobamba
There are two transportation options for visiting Guano from Riobamba.
How to get to Guano by bus:
- Head to the north side of town, outside Mercado Juan Bernardo Davalos. Walk to the side where the open-air fruit and vegetable market is, and you'll see buses lined up heading for the guano.
- The location is conveniently identified on Google Maps as BUS A GUANO.
- The bus from Guano to Riobamba costs $0.35 and takes 20 minutes.
How to get to Guano by taxi:
- This is the quickest way to get to Riobamba and will cost about $5 each way.
The best things to do in Guano Ecuador
Visit the ruins Ascension Monastery
the The ruins of the Ascension Monastery in Guano It holds historical importance as part of the first Franciscan church built in the parish around 1572.
The arrival of the Spaniards led to the evangelization of the Boroha culture and the introduction of looms for the production of textiles and religious practices. Despite generating wealth, earthquakes in 1797 and 1949 reduced the church to rubble. The Guaneños were rebuilt using original materials, and were later restored by the Central Bank of Ecuador in 1982.
Today, the ruins display the ancient church walls with paintings, monks' sculptures, preserved windows and a baptismal font. The site also includes a guano mummy found in the walls of the church along with a mummified rat, now on display in the city museum, and a stone crucifix dating from 1677 in the garden of the “Hijos de el Rosario” Workers' Association.
Guano City Museum
The Guano City Museum, known as the “Mummy Museum,” houses a captivating exhibit of a well-preserved ancient mummy, offering insight into the burial practices and lifestyle of the region's indigenous people.
According to historical research, the mummy in Guano's Museo de la Cuidad is presumed to be that of a Franciscan friar named Fray Lázaro de Santofimia who was the first custodian of the Monastery of Our Lady of the Assumption of Guano between 1565 and 1572.
In addition to the mummy, the museum offers a rich collection of exhibits, photographs and artefacts, which provide interesting viewing for history enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to explore Guano's vibrant heritage. It's only small but the city museum is worth seeing when you visit Guano!
|| Entry cost: $1 for foreigners / $0.50 for Ecuadorian visitors
Enjoy Mirador de la Colina Lluishig
Located at an altitude of 2,767 meters on a former avalanche formed by the Chimborazo volcano, this geological site offers a unique experience. Climb 327 steps to Viewpoint of Loesig Hill Discover the ornate stone carvings of Luis F. Reynoso. the Three monoliths It was created in the mid-20th century (1946) and includes intricate carvings of fish, the face of the Incas, and bowls.
Dating back to colonial times, this site symbolizes ancient Lake Guano and is home to a species of fish native to the area. In honor of the brave Indian Toca head, Defender of Puruha, includes representations of the Incas and a ship. Carved to honor the Poroha culture, these sculptures depict vessels made of clay and commemorate the traditional drink. Chicha de goraIt offers a vivid glimpse into the historical and cultural roots of the region.
Includes El Mirador A Shrine of the Virgin de LourdesIt offers stunning views of Guano and its surroundings, showcasing prominent mountains such as Tungurahua, El Altar and Chimborazo.
Try Cholas
Chola It is a delicious traditional sweet bread with a rich history in the artisan canton of Guano. A mixture of white flour, brown sugar, butter, lard, eggs, warm water, anise and secret ingredients passed down through generations. Panela's use of the sweet black filling adds a special touch.
The crunchy texture achieved through hand kneading and the wood-fired eucalyptus baking process feels like a labor of love, which contributes to the distinctive texture of these desserts.
the Ricas Cholas Bakery in Guano, founded by Abuela in 1930, is a testament to the longevity of this delicious bread and its traditions. It's great that they have preserved their grandmother's legacy and continue to offer visitors this special treat.
He devoured the frittada
Indulge in Local culture Guano is incomplete without tasting a frittada. this Traditional Ecuadorian dish It consists of succulent fried pork marinated in achiote, complemented with sides like lapinagos (potato pancakes), moth (hominy corn), sliced avocado, and aji (chili sauce).
Choosing Restaurante Rica Fritada in Guano was a wise decision. The top-rated restaurant has lived up to its reputation, offering an authentic frittada experience.
|| More inspiration about traveling in Ecuador
Visit the Church of Maria Immaculate
The Maria Inmaculada Church in Guano is a captivating architectural gem. Illuminated by neon lights, its altar stands as a mesmerizing centerpiece, blending modern aesthetics with traditional veneration. The vibrant glow is a unique visual spectacle within this sacred place of worship.
It can be difficult to know when churches are open in Riobamba, so I was pleased to be able to simply walk into this one!
Shopping in Guano
If you visit Guano, peruse the shops and market stalls featuring a variety of goods for sale, including rugs, sarongs, shoes and clothing, although many are no longer made locally.
Despite the fading tradition, a few dedicated weavers in the city, such as weavers with a multi-generational heritage, continue to handcraft rugs with passion and artistry. There is a statue near the Iglesia Católica Nuestra Señora de El Rosario honoring the women weavers of Guano.
Useful links for visiting Guano Ecuador
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Frequently Asked Questions Visit Guano
How long do you need in guano Ecuador?
A half day trip in guano would be good. If you want to walk to other neighborhoods, eat all the local cuisine, and make time for shopping, I'd let you visit Guano for a day.
Is it worth a visit? Guano Ecuador?
As a self-proclaimed magical city in Ecuador, it is worth visiting Guano Ecuador to delve into the history and typical craftsmanship of the city. Guano is a short bus ride from Riobamba making it a stress-free day trip.
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