Set on the northern edge of Bogotá in the department of Cundinamarca, Chía offers a calmer, small-town contrast to the capital while still brimming with cultural energy. Its historic centre reveals colonial façades, lively plazas and traditional bakeries scented with warm almojábanas. Visitors can climb to the hilltop Santuario de la Valvanera for sweeping views across the Sabana de Bogotá, stroll the riverside paths, or explore local craft shops and markets. Chía is also known for its vibrant dining scene, most famously the eclectic Andrés Carne de Res, where music, colour and theatre collide. Blending everyday Colombian life with pockets of rural tranquillity, Chía makes a welcoming base for those seeking culture, scenery and a slower-paced escape just beyond the city.
Located in Colombia’s Guavio Province, Guasca is a town and municipality set just 55 kilometres from Bogota. It is known for its ecotourism and serves as a gateway to the beautiful Chingaza Natural National Park, known for its scenic hiking trails, crystal clear lagoons and abundant wildlife. Visitors can look forward to exploring the streets of Guasca lined with Spanish architecture, sampling local Colombian cuisine and enjoying a mudbath, exploring the dusty country roads and soaking up the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside characterised by lush greenery and undulating hills. Other highlights include Los Encenillos, the Siecha Lakes and Cafe la Huerta, one of the oldest hotels and restaurants in the area.
Villa de Leyva is said to be one of the most charming villages in Colombia, with its colonial architecture, cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings and mild climate. Located in the Boyacá department of Colombia, and a three-hour drive from the capital, Bogotá, this picturesque village was declared a national monument in 1954 and is a tourist haven. Its 400-year-old plaza, the largest open square in South America, hosts regular markets and festivals, making it a hub of activity on weekends. Don’t leave town without heading into the spectacular surrounding mountains – either on foot, bicycle or horseback – where waterfalls, lakes, caves and archaeological sites await.
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, lies on the slopes of the Andes’ mighty Pichincha volcano in the Guayllabamba river basin. The city’s Old Town is its main attraction - one of the most well preserved in Latin America and the first-ever UNESCO heritage site. Wander among ancient, colourful streets; pop into glorious historic churches; or spend an afternoon browsing the vibrant Mercado (markets) and learning about the unique, traditional Ecuadorian Sierra culture. Other bucket list items in Quito include a visit to the impressive Casa Museo Guayasamín; the Museo de la Presidencia which provides insight into Ecuador’s history; and a climb up the iconic towers of the Basilica. Numerous gorgeous public parks and a thriving and exciting culinary scene complete the package.
Located in central Ecuador in the Chamba River Valley of the Andes, Riobamba lies at the heart of an extensive scenic road network and is the starting point of the well-known historic train ride down the spectacular Nariz del Diablo or ‘Devil’s Nose’. The city, sometimes referred to as the ‘Sultan of the Andes’, is an important commercial centre for the central highlands and due to its proximity to Chimborazo, the country’s highest peak, is also a favourite base for trekkers and mountain climbers. On Saturdays, visitors can enjoy the large bustling market that brings traders from far and wide to sell a rich assortment of wares.
The small, central-Ecuadorian town of Banos de Agua Santa (‘Baths of Holy Water’) lies in the verdant foothills of the Tungurahua volcano. Adventure lovers can make the most of this idyllic setting by taking a waterfall tour; going paragliding, bridge jumping or white-water rafting. Those looking for views with a hint of danger can try a ride on the ‘Swing at the End of The World’, to sail out over the mountainside and see unobstructed views of the (possibly erupting) volcano. For the less bold, a visit to the mineral-rich hot springs will do nicely, followed by a stroll along the town’s red, blue and yellow pavement and a sampling of the local fare at one of the many welcoming eateries. Several beautiful colourfully-lit cathedrals add a sense of wonder to the town at night.
With an idyllic location on the northern banks of the Napo River, Ahuano is a small village situated in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazonian tropical rainforest. Ahuano is home to the indigenous Kichwa people, who have retained their rich traditional native culture. The village rests within a landscape featuring a biodiverse ecosystem of diverse fauna and flora, making it a popular spot for travellers wishing to explore the scenic surroundings. Catering to the desired needs of all travellers, visitors to this unique area can take an Ecuadorian cooking class, make artisanal chocolate with the finest quality cacao or participate in a sacred Shaman cleansing ceremony. For nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, the phenomenal Amazon jungle offers a plethora of hiking trails. Other popular activities around the area include canyoning, tubing, swimming, boating, and canoeing. Don’t miss the Zoonica Park, a sanctuary inhabited by several endangered species such as tapir, coati, toucans, owls, turtles and boas.
Puembo is a tranquil, pretty farming town located east of Quito, in the district of the same name, set ten minutes from the international airport. It functions as one of the best bases for hiking the magnificent inactive volcanoes in the area, such as Ilalo and Coturco. Ilalo, a striking triangular-shaped peak, is decorated with numerous wonderful hot springs, and there are several excellent spas to enjoy. Coturco is a large landmark volcano that can be seen from miles away, swathed in the beautiful dense pine forest, and offers both challenging hikes and a road to the summit for spectacular views. History and architecture enthusiasts visiting Puembo should make sure to see the Old Chapel, and head to Quito for fascinating heritage buildings and museums. Puembo is also known for its rich traditions and holds a wonderful celebration over Holy Week.
