Free Andean Highlands Travel Guide & Mobile App

Explore Andean Highlands with free travel guides. Discover regional history, expert tips, proposed trips, and audio guides on web or mobile app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Andean Highlands
Andean Highlands photo 2
Andean Highlands photo 3
All photos

Explore Ecuador’s Andean Highlands for volcanoes, historic Quito, Indigenous markets, crater lakes, mountain walks and colonial Cuenca.

Ecuador’s Andean Highlands form the country’s central mountain corridor, rising between the Pacific lowlands and the eastern forests. This is not a single administrative province but a broad geographical and cultural region shaped by the Andes, stretching from the northern highlands around Otavalo and Quito through the Avenue of the Volcanoes to the historic cities of Riobamba and Cuenca. Elevations vary considerably, so journeys between towns can bring sharp changes in climate, vegetation and scenery.
Read more about Andean Highlands
The landscape is defined by volcanic peaks, high plateaux, cultivated valleys and deep ravines. Quito occupies a long, elevated basin beneath Pichincha, while Cotopaxi, Chimborazo and other snow-capped or volcanic summits dominate the routes south. Lakes, páramo grasslands and crater landscapes provide a counterpoint to the densely settled valleys. The páramo, a treeless high-altitude ecosystem, is particularly important for water regulation and supports distinctive plants such as the giant rosette-forming frailejones in some northern areas.
Historic Quito is the region’s principal cultural gateway, with an exceptional colonial centre of churches, convents and civic buildings. Further north, Otavalo is known for its long-established indigenous market traditions and the surrounding communities of the Imbabura basin. In the central highlands, Latacunga and Riobamba provide access to volcanic parks, rural landscapes and indigenous communities, while Baños lies at the eastern descent of the Andes, where hot springs, waterfalls and cloud-forest routes mark the transition towards the Amazon basin.
Southern Ecuador offers a different highland character. Cuenca combines Spanish colonial planning, republican architecture and a strong contemporary arts scene, while nearby Cañar preserves important Indigenous and pre-Inca and Inca heritage, including Ingapirca. Highland food reflects altitude and agriculture: potatoes, maize, grains, beans, pork, trout, fresh cheeses and soups appear in regional variations, alongside market produce and traditional drinks. Visitors encounter both urban Ecuadorian life and rural communities whose farming, weaving and religious traditions remain part of the region’s cultural fabric.
Travel here rewards gradual acclimatisation and measured itineraries. Quito, mountain markets, crater lakes, national parks, historic towns and highland farms are often connected by roads that cross steep passes and changing weather zones. Walks may be short in distance but demanding at altitude, and cloud, sun and rain can arrive within the same day. The region’s appeal lies in the close relationship between dramatic geology, historic settlements and the continuing life of Andean landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Andean Highlands?

Best: June–August · 17°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1760
February1750
March1770
April1780
May1750
June (best)1740
July (best)1730
August (best)1730
September1740
October1750
November1760
December1770

Getting to and around Andean Highlands

How to get there

Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport is the principal international gateway to the northern and central highlands, although it is outside the historic centre and requires a road transfer into the city. Mariscal La Mar Airport in Cuenca serves southern highland travel, while Cotopaxi International Airport near Latacunga may be useful for the central corridor when suitable services are operating. Long-distance buses connect Quito with major highland cities, and domestic flights can link Quito and Cuenca. Visitors arriving through Guayaquil can continue overland or by air, but the ascent into the Andes involves a noticeable change in altitude.

Transportation

Buses are the principal form of intercity transport through the highlands and generally connect provincial capitals and market towns, while local buses serve urban and rural routes. Quito has an extensive urban transport system, including the Metro, and Cuenca has an integrated tram and bus network. A private car or driver is useful for crater lakes, national parks, rural villages and dispersed viewpoints, but mountain roads require patience and careful driving. Taxis and ride-hailing services are practical in larger cities; outside them, arrange transport in advance. Walking is rewarding in historic centres, but high-altitude trails should be assessed according to fitness, weather and acclimatisation.

Top city travel guides in Andean Highlands

The cities of Andean Highlands, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in Andean Highlands

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in Andean Highlands

The attractions of Ecuador’s Andean Highlands range from monumental cities to open volcanic terrain. Quito’s historic centre offers churches, convents, plazas and museums, while nearby viewpoints and the TelefériQo provide a sense of the capital’s elevated setting. In the northern highlands, the Otavalo market, Laguna de Cuicocha and the communities around Imbabura combine commerce, craft traditions and distinctive volcanic scenery. The central corridor is known for Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa’s water-filled crater and the high landscapes around Chimborazo, where wildlife and páramo vegetation can be explored with appropriate preparation. Riobamba and Latacunga are useful bases for rural excursions and heritage routes. East of the main crest, Baños provides access to thermal waters, waterfalls and adventure activities in a greener, lower-elevation environment. In the south, Cuenca’s museums and cultural institutions complement excursions to Cañar and Ingapirca, while highland villages, farms and community tourism offer a closer look at contemporary rural life.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in Andean Highlands

Quito’s historic centre is the Andean Highlands’ most recognisable architectural landmark, with the gilded interior of La Compañía de Jesús, the monumental Basilica del Voto Nacional and the broad Plaza de la Independencia expressing different periods of the city’s religious and civic history. In the north, the conical form of Imbabura and the crater lake of Cuicocha are powerful natural markers of the volcanic landscape. Cotopaxi’s near-symmetrical snow-capped cone is one of Ecuador’s defining mountain images, although visibility and access depend on conditions. Near Riobamba, Chimborazo dominates the high plateau and rises to Ecuador’s highest summit, while the surrounding reserve protects fragile páramo environments. Quilotoa’s turquoise crater lake provides another distinctive volcanic landmark. In southern Ecuador, Ingapirca’s carefully fitted stonework preserves the country’s most important surviving Inca-period architectural complex, and Cuenca’s domes, tiled roofs and historic streets create a landmark urban silhouette shaped by colonial and republican development.

Show more landmarks

Explore Andean Highlands on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Andean Highlands

Highland dining is built around crops and livestock suited to cool mountain valleys. Locro de papa, a creamy potato and cheese soup often served with avocado, is widely associated with the Ecuadorian Andes, while llapingachos, hornado, fritada, mote and grilled or stewed meats appear in regional variations. Markets and traditional eateries are good places to encounter fresh maize, potatoes, beans, chochos, grains, soups and fruit from different elevations. Cuy is available in some Andean areas and is a ceremonial or special-occasion food for some communities, rather than an everyday dish for every visitor. Quito and Cuenca offer the broadest choice of contemporary Ecuadorian cooking, international restaurants, cafés and bakeries, while smaller towns rely more on family-run restaurants, almuerzos and highland snacks. Around mountain lakes and rivers, trout is common. Local cheeses, panela, chocolate and craft beers or fruit-based drinks provide further regional flavours, although offerings vary between provinces.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in Andean Highlands

Evening life in the Andean Highlands is concentrated in Quito and Cuenca, with smaller scenes in Ambato, Riobamba, Loja and other provincial centres. Quito has the widest range of cocktail bars, live-music venues, restaurants and clubs, particularly in established central and northern entertainment areas, while Cuenca combines wine and cocktail bars, cafés, restaurants and cultural venues in and around its historic centre. In university towns, nightlife can be livelier during academic periods, but venues and opening arrangements change frequently. In rural highland destinations, evenings generally centre on traditional restaurants, family-run bars, community events and occasional live music rather than a large club scene. Baños has a more pronounced visitor-oriented evening economy than many mountain towns, with bars and music venues alongside restaurants. Drink responsibly, use secure transport after dark and remember that altitude can intensify the effects of alcohol.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in Andean Highlands

Evening life in the Andean Highlands is concentrated in Quito and Cuenca, with smaller scenes in Ambato, Riobamba, Loja and other provincial centres. Quito has the widest range of cocktail bars, live-music venues, restaurants and clubs, particularly in established central and northern entertainment areas, while Cuenca combines wine and cocktail bars, cafés, restaurants and cultural venues in and around its historic centre. In university towns, nightlife can be livelier during academic periods, but venues and opening arrangements change frequently. In rural highland destinations, evenings generally centre on traditional restaurants, family-run bars, community events and occasional live music rather than a large club scene. Baños has a more pronounced visitor-oriented evening economy than many mountain towns, with bars and music venues alongside restaurants. Drink responsibly, use secure transport after dark and remember that altitude can intensify the effects of alcohol.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in Andean Highlands

Shopping in the Andean Highlands ranges from busy open-air markets to specialist craft and design shops. Otavalo is the best-known market centre, with textiles, woven goods, clothing, jewellery and souvenirs sold alongside everyday produce; visitors should compare quality and ask about materials rather than assuming every item is locally made. Quito and Cuenca have independent boutiques, bookshops, galleries and contemporary craft stores, particularly around historic and central districts. Smaller towns such as Latacunga, Riobamba and Guamote offer produce markets and practical goods as well as traditional textiles and regional foodstuffs. Look for Ecuadorian chocolate, coffee from other parts of the country, panela, spices, woven accessories, ceramics and carefully labelled artisan work. Bargaining may be acceptable in some informal markets but is not appropriate everywhere, especially in established shops or when buying directly from small producers. Market customs and opening days vary, so confirm locally before making a dedicated trip.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Andean Highlands, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Andean Highlands essentials

Currency and Payment
Ecuador uses the United States dollar (USD). Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, established restaurants, supermarkets and larger shops in Quito and Cuenca, but small markets, rural transport, modest eateries and community-run attractions often require cash. Carry small-value notes and coins, as vendors may not be able to change large denominations. ATMs are common in cities and principal towns, though access becomes less predictable in remote mountain areas. Notify your bank before travel and use normal precautions when withdrawing money.
Safety
Take ordinary urban precautions in busy areas, markets, bus terminals and on public transport, particularly in larger cities. Keep valuables discreet and use registered taxis or reputable ride-hailing services where available. At altitude, headaches, breathlessness and fatigue can indicate that you should rest, hydrate and ascend more slowly. Mountain weather can reduce visibility and make trails slippery, while volcanic and páramo areas may be cold even in sunshine. Use marked routes and qualified guides for demanding walks, and obtain current local advice before entering remote areas. Road travel at night deserves extra caution because of bends, rain and variable road conditions.
Emergency Situations
Dial 911 in Ecuador for police, fire and ambulance emergencies. Tell the operator your exact location, as rural highland addresses may be difficult to identify; recording a map pin or noting the nearest town is useful before setting out. For serious incidents in national parks or on high-altitude routes, contact local park personnel, police or an accredited guide as soon as possible. Travel insurance should cover medical treatment, evacuation and activities at altitude. Do not rely on mobile coverage in remote valleys, páramo or volcanic terrain.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress in layers and use sun protection, even when the morning is cool. Ask permission before photographing people, especially at markets, religious ceremonies and in rural communities. Follow access rules at archaeological sites, churches, national parks and Indigenous community attractions. Queue patiently and keep belongings close on buses and in crowded markets. Tipping is not a uniquely Andean custom, but a service charge may appear in restaurants and an additional gratuity is discretionary. Do not remove plants, archaeological material or rocks from protected landscapes, and avoid treating traditional clothing or ceremonies as costume or spectacle.
Local Tips
Highland itineraries work best when grouped geographically: combine Quito with nearby northern valleys, the central volcanoes with Latacunga or Riobamba, and southern heritage with Cuenca and Cañar. Market days differ by town, so check locally rather than assuming a daily market. Early starts usually provide clearer mountain views, while afternoons can bring cloud and rain. In popular national parks, bring food and water because facilities may be limited. Ask accommodation staff about altitude, road conditions and reputable local guides before booking day trips.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHola[Ola]
GoodbyeAdiós[Adyos]
YesSí[Si]
NoNo[No]
Please/You're welcomePor favor[Por favor]
Thank youGracias[Grasias]
Excuse me/SorryPerdón[Perdon]
How are you?¿Cómo estás?[Como estas]
Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?[Bien. Y tu]
Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?[Hablas ingles]
I don't understandNo entiendo[No entiendo]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor[Kisiera ver el menu, por favor]
I don't eat meatNo como carne[No como karne]
Cheers!¡Salud![Salud]
I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor[Kisiera pagar, por favor]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!¡Ayuda![Ayuda]
Go away!¡Vete![Vete]
Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía![Llama a la policia]
Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico![Llama a un medico]
I'm lostEstoy perdido[Estoy perdido]
I'm illEstoy enfermo/a[Estoy enfermo/a]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...[Kisiera comprar]
I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando[Solo estoy mirando]
How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?[Cuanto cuesta]
That's too expensiveEso es muy caro[Eso es mui karo]
Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?[Puedes bajar el precio]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?¿Qué hora es?[Que ora es]
It's one o'clockEs la una[Es la una]
Half past (10)Y media (10)[Y media]
MorningMañana[Mañana]
AfternoonTarde[Tarde]
EveningNoche[Noche]
YesterdayAyer[Ayer]
TodayHoy[Hoy]
TomorrowMañana[Mañana]
1Uno[Uno]
2Dos[Dos]
3Tres[Tres]
4Cuatro[Cuatro]
5Cinco[Sinko]
6Seis[Seis]
7Siete[Siete]
8Ocho[Ocho]
9Nueve[Nueve]
10Diez[Diez]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está un/una...?[Donde esta un/una]
What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?[Cual es la direccion]
Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?[Puedes mostrarme en el mapa]
When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (bus)?[Cuando es el proximo bus]
A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)[Un boleto a]

History of Andean Highlands

Early Andean societies and agricultural landscapes

Long before European arrival, the highlands were occupied by farming societies that cultivated maize, potatoes, quinoa and other crops suited to different elevations. Communities developed terraces, irrigation systems, exchange networks and ceremonial centres across the intermontane valleys. Archaeological evidence from northern Ecuador includes the legacy of the Quitu and Caranqui spheres, while many later Indigenous communities retained distinctive languages, textiles and forms of land management. The highlands were not an empty wilderness but a densely used cultural landscape in which altitude created opportunities for exchanging products between ecological zones.

Inca expansion in the late fifteenth century

The Inca state expanded northwards into present-day Ecuador during the late fifteenth century, incorporating or confronting established highland societies. The campaign was associated with the Inca ruler Huayna Capac and led to the construction or adaptation of roads, administrative settlements and ceremonial sites. Ingapirca in Cañar is the best-known surviving Inca-period complex in Ecuador, although its history also reflects the earlier Cañari presence. Inca influence was relatively recent when the Spanish arrived, and local identities remained powerful throughout the highlands.

Spanish conquest and colonial Quito

Spanish forces entered the northern Andes in the sixteenth century during a period of severe political instability following the Inca civil war and epidemic disease. Colonial towns, churches, administrative institutions and estates were established across the highland valleys. Quito became a major centre of the Audiencia of Quito, and its religious orders sponsored architecture, sculpture and painting that produced the artistic tradition often called the Quito School. Indigenous labour, tribute and land reorganisation profoundly altered rural society, while churches and colonial streets left an enduring imprint on Quito and other historic settlements.

Colonial agriculture, textiles and regional trade

During the colonial period, highland economies combined subsistence farming, estate agriculture, livestock, craft production and long-distance trade. Wool and cotton textiles became particularly important in northern communities, while grain, potatoes and livestock moved between valleys and towns. Indigenous communities maintained agricultural knowledge and collective practices despite land loss and colonial obligations. Market exchange helped connect Quito, Otavalo, Latacunga, Riobamba and Cuenca, reinforcing the highlands as Ecuador’s main population and commercial corridor.

Independence and the republican highlands

The Andean highlands were central to Ecuador’s independence struggles and the formation of the nineteenth-century republic. Quito and the surrounding provinces experienced political conflict, military mobilisation and changing relationships between local elites, Indigenous communities and the new state. Cuenca and other southern centres developed their own civic institutions and commercial networks. Republican governments gradually expanded roads, public administration and education, although social and economic inequality remained deeply rooted. Many civic buildings, plazas and churches visible in highland towns reflect this transition from colonial rule to republican life.

Railways, roads and the integration of the Andes

Transport development transformed movement through the mountains during the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The Guayaquil–Quito railway, completed in stages and known for the difficult ascent near the Nariz del Diablo, linked the coast with the highland capital and enabled wider circulation of goods and people. Later roads and bus networks became more important for everyday travel, connecting market towns, agricultural districts and provincial capitals. These infrastructure changes strengthened Quito’s national role and helped integrate the previously separated valleys of the Andean corridor.

Indigenous movements and contemporary identity

Indigenous organisations have played a major role in Ecuador’s modern political and social history, particularly in the highlands. Communities have campaigned over land, education, labour rights, cultural recognition and control of natural resources, contributing to constitutional recognition of Ecuador as a plurinational state. Indigenous languages, dress, festivals, farming systems and market networks remain visible across the region, though they vary considerably between communities. Contemporary highland identity therefore combines ancient agricultural knowledge, colonial legacies, republican institutions and active debates about development and environmental protection.

Andean Highlands in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Neighbouring regions of Andean Highlands

The closest regions to Andean Highlands, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

Ecuador
More of the region

Explore more of Ecuador

Explore Ecuador: From the Amazon rainforest and Andean highlands to the Pacific coast and Galápagos Islands, discover diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures.

Explore Ecuador
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Andean Highlands, Ecuador

Discover the Andean Highlands with Evendo: A 100% free app offering detailed info on attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, tours, and activities.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities.
  • Rich content including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details.
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences.
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Planning a trip to the Andean Highlands? Evendo is your free, all-in-one travel guide offering detailed insights into attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, and more.

  • History of Andean Highlands and travel essentials.
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience.
  • Easy navigation with 'Near Me' feature to discover nearby attractions.
  • User-friendly interface and 100% free with no in-app purchases.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Andean Highlands with Evendo, your ultimate travel companion. The app provides comprehensive information on the region's best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. Whether you're exploring the picturesque town of Otavalo, marveling at the stunning Cotopaxi Volcano, or enjoying the serene beauty of Quilotoa Lake, Evendo has you covered.

One of the highlights of the Andean Highlands is the vibrant city of Quito. With Evendo, you can delve into its rich history by visiting the iconic Independence Square or the awe-inspiring La Compañía de Jesús Church. For nature enthusiasts, the Mindo Cloud Forest offers breathtaking views and diverse wildlife that will leave you spellbound. And when it comes to dining, savor local delicacies at renowned restaurants such as Zazu and Urko.

Evendo makes it effortless to plan and organize your trip. The app features rich sets of information, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details, making it easy to discover amazing new things. Plus, you can easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app. No more searching for what to see, do, and experience—Evendo has it all in one place.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.

Select Currency

Choose the currency you want prices to display in.