Travel Guide to Cordillera Real

Getting There

• Car

  If you are starting from the city of Ambato, take the E35 highway heading south towards Riobamba. Continue on E35 for about 40 km until you reach the junction with the E45 highway. Turn left onto the E45 and drive for approximately 60 km until you reach the town of Alausí. From Alausí, continue on the E45 heading towards the town of Cañar. After around 30 km, you will see signs for the Cordillera Real. Follow the signs for another 20 km until you reach the entrance of the mountain range.

• Public Transportation

  To reach Cordillera Real using public transportation, start at the Ambato bus terminal. Take a bus to Riobamba (approximately 1 hour, cost around $2). Once in Riobamba, transfer to a bus going to Alausí (approximately 30 minutes, cost around $1). In Alausí, look for buses to Cañar, which run frequently. After arriving in Cañar, you can hire a taxi or a local guide to take you the remaining distance to the mountain range (around 20 km). The taxi fare may cost around $10-$15.

• Trekking

  For the adventurous travelers, once you reach Alausí, you can opt for a trekking route leading into the Cordillera Real. Make sure to prepare accordingly by bringing proper hiking gear, food, and water. Depending on your starting point in Alausí, you can find local maps or guides that will help you navigate the trails leading into the range. Be mindful of the altitude and weather conditions.