Best Landmarks in Sierra
Planning a trip to Sierra? Discover the best landmarks in Sierra with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Sierra
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- A–Z
38 landmarks
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Monument4.7★30,095 reviews
Middle of the World City
Visit the 'Middle of the World City' in Ecuador, where you can stand on the equator, explore museums, and learn about the landmark's historical significance. While GPS technology has determined the equator is actually a bit north, it remains a must-see for its cultural and scientific importance.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–18:00
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Tourist attraction4.7★17,718 reviews
Virgin of the Panecillo
Perched atop a hill in Quito, the Virgin of the Panecillo is an awe-inspiring monument that offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. This iconic landmark, standing at 41 meters, is not only a symbol of faith but also a testament to Ecuadorian artistry and history, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in local culture.
Mon–Wed 9:30–17:15 · Thu–Sun 9:30–21:00
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Tourist attraction4.7★11,221 reviews
La Casa del Arbol
La Casa del Arbol, or 'the treehouse,' is perched high in the mountains near Baños, Ecuador, offering breathtaking views of the active Tungurahua volcano and the surrounding valley. Originally a seismic monitoring station, it gained fame for its thrilling swing that dangles over the edge of the mountain, creating an unforgettable experience.
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Tourist attraction4.8★7,895 reviews
La Chocolatera
Discover La Chocolatera, a stunning tourist attraction in Salinas, Ecuador, where breathtaking ocean views meet the rich history of chocolate production. This picturesque spot offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue, making it an essential stop for any traveler.
Daily 8:00–15:00
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National park4.8★4,140 reviews
Parque Nacional Cajas
Escape to the rugged beauty of Parque Nacional Cajas, a highland paradise just outside Cuenca, Ecuador. Explore a landscape of crystalline lakes, rolling páramo grasslands, and remnants of ancient Inca trails, all set at breathtaking altitudes.
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Catholic cathedral4.8★3,419 reviews
Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción
The Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, or New Cathedral of Cuenca, stands as a symbol of the city with its striking blue domes and blend of architectural styles. Construction began in 1885, inspired by the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome, and it can accommodate up to 8,000 people.
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Theme park4.8★3,041 reviews
ANIMALPARK PARQUE TEMÁTICO
ANIMALPARK PARQUE TEMÁTICO, nestled in the scenic Runtún area of Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador, offers a unique opportunity to interact with a variety of animals in recreations of their natural habitats. With stunning views of the Tungurahua volcano, it's a memorable experience for all ages.
Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–19:30
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Public bath4.3★3,630 reviews
Termas de la Virgen
Termas de la Virgen, located in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador, is a renowned public bath known for its therapeutic, naturally heated mineral waters sourced from the Tungurahua Volcano. The hot springs are situated at the foot of the Cascada de la Virgen waterfall, offering a unique and picturesque setting for relaxation.
Daily 5:00–21:00
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Protected area4.7★2,676 reviews
Reserva de Produccion Faunistica Chimborazo
The Reserva de Producción Faunística Chimborazo is a protected area in Ecuador's highlands, famed for its stunning paramo landscapes, diverse wildlife, and views of the Chimborazo volcano, the highest peak in Ecuador. It offers hiking, photography, and a chance to see Andean condors and vicuñas.
Daily 8:00–14:00
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National park4.8★2,478 reviews
Parque Nacional Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi National Park, a protected area in Ecuador's Andes Mountains, is renowned for the iconic Cotopaxi volcano. The park offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for hiking and mountaineering, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
El Pailón del Diablo
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Puyo, El Pailón del Diablo captivates visitors with its breathtaking waterfalls and vibrant biodiversity. This natural attraction is perfect for adventurous tourists seeking a peaceful escape amidst the beauty of Ecuadorian nature.
Daily 8:00–23:00
Quilotoa Lake
Quilotoa Lake, a stunning crater lake high in the Ecuadorian Andes, is known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic setting. Formed by a volcanic eruption in 1280 AD, this caldera offers breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to immerse yourself in local indigenous culture.
Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba
Explore the fascinating Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba in Quito, Ecuador, an open-air museum showcasing the remains of civilizations dating back to 1500 BCE. Wander through the ruins, reconstructed dwellings, and lush landscapes of this important pre-Columbian site, offering a unique glimpse into Ecuador's rich cultural heritage.
Wed–Sun 6:00–16:00
Cascada de la Virgen
Cascada de la Virgen, or Virgin's Waterfall, is a stunning waterfall cascading down a cliff face in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador. Easily accessible and located near the city center, it's a must-see attraction, offering beautiful views and a tranquil atmosphere. The waterfall is named for the Virgin Mary, with a shrine located at its base.
Open 24 hours
Cerro De Hayas, 7 Cascadas del Cantón Naranjal
Cerro De Hayas, also known as the 7 Cascadas del Cantón Naranjal, offers a refreshing escape into nature with a series of seven waterfalls. Located near Naranjal, Guayas, Ecuador, this attraction provides a memorable experience with opportunities for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the local flora and fauna.
Mon–Fri 8:00–14:30
Toachi River Canyon
The Toachi River Canyon, near Zumbahua, Ecuador, is a stunning canyon carved by the Toachi River and shaped by eruptions from the Quilotoa volcano. Offering panoramic views and hiking trails, it's a must-see natural attraction.
Open 24 hours
Discovery Baños
Discovery Baños is an amusement park nestled in the scenic town of Baños, Ecuador, offering a mix of thrilling rides, relaxing thermal pools, and stunning natural beauty. It's a great destination for families and adventure seekers alike, with activities ranging from zip-lining to enjoying the therapeutic hot springs.
Daily 10:00–20:00
La Nariz del Diablo
La Nariz del Diablo, or the Devil's Nose, is a famous mountain in the Ecuadorian Andes, known for its unique railway that zigzags down its steep slopes. Constructed in the early 20th century, this railway was an incredible feat of engineering designed to connect the highlands with the coast. The train journey offers breathtaking views of the dramatic landscapes and lush valleys, providing an unforgettable experience.
Tue–Sun 8:00–10:30, 11:00–13:30
Cochasqui Archaeological Park
Explore the fascinating Cochasqui Archaeological Park, a pre-Inca site featuring unique truncated pyramids and burial mounds. Discover the remnants of the Quitu-Cara culture and their advanced astronomical knowledge, set amidst stunning Andean scenery.
Daily 8:00–16:30
La Aldea Mágica
La Aldea Mágica, nestled in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador, is a captivating sculpture museum that blends art and nature into a magical experience. Wander through enchanting gardens filled with whimsical sculptures of elves, fairies, and gnomes, creating a unique and immersive world for visitors of all ages.
Condor Machay Cascadas
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes near Quito, Condor Machay Cascadas is a nature preserve that captivates visitors with its stunning waterfalls and rich biodiversity. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this serene escape offers a perfect blend of tranquility and exploration, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
Old Cathedral of Cuenca
The Iglesia del Sagrario, known as the Old Cathedral of Cuenca, is a historic church dating back to 1557. Today, it serves as a Museum of Religious Art, showcasing Cuenca's colonial heritage through its architecture and religious artifacts.
Daily 6:00–17:00
Quitsato Solar Clock
The Quitsato Solar Clock is a monument and cultural site precisely on the Equator, north of Quito, Ecuador. It showcases the astronomical knowledge of pre-Hispanic cultures with a large sundial and offers panoramic views of the Andes.
Daily 8:30–17:30
La Mansión del Deán
La Mansión del Deán, located in Quito's Conocoto neighborhood, is a beautifully preserved historical mansion that offers a glimpse into Ecuador's colonial past. Originally a hacienda house dating back to the early 19th century, it showcases stunning architecture and lush gardens, providing a serene escape and a captivating historical experience.
Reserva de producción de Fauna Cuyabeno
The Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, located in the Sucumbíos and Orellana provinces of northeastern Ecuador, is a biodiverse region within the Amazon rainforest. Established in 1979, the reserve encompasses over 603,000 hectares of tropical rainforest, rivers, and lagoons, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the Amazon's natural beauty and wildlife.
El Puyo, Pastaza, Ecuador
El Puyo, also known as Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompeii de Puyo, is the capital city of the Pastaza province in Ecuador. Nestled in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, it serves as a crucial hub for exploring the region's natural and cultural wonders.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00 · Sat 9:00–13:00
Volcan Altar
Volcán Altar, an extinct volcano within Sangay National Park, is a breathtaking trekking destination in the Ecuadorian Andes. Its iconic cathedral-like shape, formed by nine peaks surrounding a crater lake, offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for hikers.
Mojanda
Mojanda is a complex of two inactive volcanoes, rising southwest of Otavalo, Ecuador. Its summit caldera, formed by a Plinian eruption around 200,000 years ago, holds three stunning crater lakes: Karikucha, Yanakucha, and Warmikucha.
Lagunas de Ozogoche
Lagunas de Ozogoche, nestled within Sangay National Park in Ecuador's Chimborazo province, is a system of 45 stunning high-altitude lakes. Famous for the mysterious annual 'Tribute of the Birds' festival, where migrating plover birds plunge into the icy waters, these lagoons offer breathtaking scenery and a unique cultural experience.
LAGUNA AMARILLA
Laguna Amarilla, or Yellow Lagoon, is a stunning turquoise crater lake nestled at the foot of the majestic El Altar volcano within Sangay National Park. Surrounded by nine snow-covered peaks, this remote and pristine location offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador
Baños de Agua Santa, nestled in the Tungurahua province of Ecuador, is a vibrant city renowned as the 'Gateway to the Amazon' and the country's adventure capital. Known for its hot springs, stunning waterfalls, and access to thrilling outdoor activities, Baños offers a unique blend of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping experiences.
INTIÑAHUI (CARA DEL SOL)
Intiñahui, also known as Cara del Sol (Face of the Sun), is a natural rock formation near Ingapirca, Ecuador, that resembles a human face. Located in the Intihuayco valley, it's a short hike from the Ingapirca ruins and offers stunning views of the surrounding Andean landscape.
Comunidad La Sierra
Comunidad La Sierra, nestled in the Andean highlands near Nono, Ecuador, offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. This historical landmark provides a unique opportunity to experience the traditions and resilience of the local community.
Very close to the equator
Stand remarkably close to the equator at this unique spot in Marian, Ecuador, offering a thrilling and educational experience surrounded by lush landscapes. It's a must-visit for those wanting to connect with one of Earth's most significant geographical markers.
Open 24 hours
Un tesoro escondido en Guashahuaico
Guashahuaico, nestled in the Ecuadorian Andes near Chordeleg, offers stunning landscapes and a rich cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy lush hills, local traditions, and vibrant markets filled with handmade crafts. It's a serene escape into the heart of Ecuadorian culture and natural beauty.
LA SIERRA ESCONDIDA
La Sierra Escondida, nestled in the tranquil town of Nono, Ecuador, is a captivating tourist attraction renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and serene environment. This hidden paradise is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an escape into the Andes Mountains.
Monumento a la Madre
The Monumento a la Madre in Sigchos, Ecuador, stands as a touching tribute to mothers. This monument embodies the profound dedication and love that mothers universally represent. Visitors are invited to reflect on the sacrifices mothers make, all within a serene Andean setting.
Catequilla
Catequilla, an ancient archaeological site near Quito, Ecuador, is the only pre-Hispanic site in the Americas located precisely on the Earth's Equator. Attributed to the Quitu-Cara culture, dating back to 800 AD, it served as an astronomical observatory. Despite its historical and geographical significance, Catequilla remains a lesser-known alternative to the nearby Mitad del Mundo monument.
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Explore Ecuador’s Sierra for volcanic landscapes, historic Quito and Cuenca, Indigenous markets, highland villages and remarkable Andean walking routes.
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