Overview
Santiago de Bolivar is a quiet colonial town nestled in Ecuador's Central Andes, offering a genuine slice of Andean life without the tourist infrastructure of larger cities. The town serves as a gateway to the 'Route of the Saints' — a series of settlements founded by Spanish conquistadors over 500 years ago, including San Lorenzo, San Simon, San Vicente, and San Jose de Chimbo.
Budget Travel · Culture · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
No formal hotels or hostels exist. Visitors should arrange homestays directly with local families, asking at the main square upon arrival.
Food
Local specialties include tortillas de maiz o trigo (wood-fired corn/wheat tortillas) with local coffee, and pork dishes. Small stores around main squares sell local beer.
Language
Spanish is the local language. English is not widely spoken; arrange a local guide in Quito or Guaranda if needed.
Safety
The town has no reported crime and constant police presence. Standard travel precautions and travel insurance are still recommended.
Transport
No public buses serve Santiago de Bolivar directly. Access is by private car or pickup truck from San Jose de Chimbo (5 km) or Guaranda (15 km). Arrange pickup truck transport at the main square for getting around.
Weather
Best visited June-September during dry season and harvest time. Carnival in February and Señor de la Salud festivities in July are major cultural events.