Riobamba Canton is one of ten cantons of the Chimborazo Province in Ecuador. Its population at the 2010 census was 225,741. Its capital is the town of Riobamba. Wikipedia
Mayor: John Vinueza
June to September (Dry Season): Clear skies and best views of Chimborazo volcano.
October to May: Rain is more frequent, especially in the afternoons, but the landscapes are greener.
Year-round temperatures are cool due to altitude (~2,750 m / 9,000 ft), ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50–68°F).
By Bus or Car:
From Quito: ~4–5 hours
From Guayaquil: ~6–7 hours
From Baños or Cuenca: 3–4 hours
Well-connected via Ecuador’s interprovincial bus system.
Chimborazo Volcano – The closest point on Earth to the sun due to Earth's equatorial bulge. You can drive up to 4,800 m and hike to 5,100 m.
Parque Maldonado – Central plaza surrounded by colonial buildings and the Cathedral.
Cathedral of Riobamba – Built from volcanic stone; a historical and architectural gem.
Train Station (Old Nariz del Diablo Route) – Scenic train journey previously ran from here; the station remains a local landmark.
Loma de Quito – City viewpoint for panoramic views of Riobamba and nearby volcanoes.
Museo de Arte Religioso de la Concepción – Historic convent and museum with art and artifacts.
Hike or bike Chimborazo with a guide for stunning high-altitude adventure.
Visit indigenous markets like the Saturday market in Riobamba or nearby Guamote (Thursdays).
Explore lagunas and páramo landscapes in nearby reserves.
Horseback riding or mountain biking around rural Andean villages.
Take cultural tours to meet Kichwa communities and learn about traditional farming and weaving.
Luxury:
Historic haciendas in the countryside offer peaceful stays with mountain views.
Mid-range:
Colonial-style hotels and family-run lodges near the city center.
Budget:
Hostels and guesthouses popular with backpackers and climbers.
Local cuisine highlights:
Hornado – Roast pork with hominy.
Llapingachos – Fried potato patties with cheese.
Ceviche de chochos – Vegetarian ceviche made with lupini beans.
Caldo de patas – Hearty soup with cow’s feet, corn, and yuca.
The city has cozy cafés, traditional almuerzos (set lunches), and food stalls around the market.
Riobamba is a center of indigenous heritage, Andean identity, and religious tradition.
Locals (Riobambeños) are warm and proud of their history — the city was Ecuador’s first capital.
The area hosts colorful festivals like:
Fiestas de Riobamba (April) – Parades, music, and street fairs.
Inti Raymi (June) – Andean solstice celebration with indigenous rituals.
You’ll see traditional dress, artisan goods, and hear Kichwa spoken in local markets.