Key Takeaways:

• Ambato is known as the City of Flowers and Fruits, offering year-round festivals, mountain views, and rich cultural traditions.

• This guide shares 10 can’t-miss experiences, from iconic parades and hiking trails to food tours, artisan markets, and hot springs nearby.

• Perfect for travelers craving a true Ecuadorian vibe, Ambato delivers a mix of calm, culture, and energy no matter the season.

Nestled in Ecuador’s central highlands and surrounded by volcanoes, Ambato is a vibrant mid-size city that blends history, creativity, and nature in one beautiful package. Officially known as the “City of Flowers and Fruits,” it’s famous for its colorful festivals, resilient spirit (after rebuilding post-earthquakes), and fresh produce that fills every local market. While it’s not as touristy as Baños or Quito, Ambato holds its own with year-round cultural events, welcoming locals, and cool mountain air that makes exploring a joy.

Ambato’s charm lies in its authenticity. You’ll find colonial cathedrals beside contemporary murals, morning hikes followed by fresh fruit smoothies, and weekend festivals that bring the whole city together. Whether you’re chasing history, flavors, or fresh air, Ambato offers meaningful, memorable experiences 12 months a year.

Table of Contents

1. Celebrate Carnaval with the Fiesta de las Flores y las Frutas

2. Stroll through Juan Montalvo Park and Botanical Garden

3. Hike the Trail to La Liria Waterfall

4. Visit the Casa del Portal and Explore Local Art

5. Eat Your Way Through Mercado Central de Ambato

6. Take a Day Trip to Parque de la Familia

7. Catch a Weekend Cultural Show at La Matriz Cathedral Square

8. Relax in the Nearby Baños Thermal Baths

9. Shop for Handmade Leather in Atocha-La Matriz

10. Watch the Sunset from Mirador de Pinllo

1. Celebrate Carnaval with the Fiesta de las Flores y las Frutas

The most iconic event in Ambato is the Fiesta de las Flores y las Frutas, a weeklong celebration held every year during Ecuador’s Carnaval. Unlike other regions that go wild with water fights and foam, Ambato takes a more elegant route — with floral floats, music, parades, and art inspired by nature and culture. This UNESCO-recognized festival brings together dancers, musicians, and artists from across the country, showcasing the best of Ambato’s creativity. It’s bright, joyful, and deeply tied to the city’s identity.

Even if you’re not there during Carnaval season (February/March), you can still visit the Festival Museum, which showcases past floats, costumes, and photos. The legacy of this celebration lives on year-round in public murals, sculptures, and storytelling. Locals are proud of the festival — and quick to tell visitors all about it. It’s one of Ecuador’s most unique cultural experiences, and Ambato does it like no one else.

2. Stroll through Juan Montalvo Park and Botanical Garden

At the heart of Ambato’s downtown, Parque Juan Montalvo is a relaxing place to get a feel for local life. Named after the famous Ecuadorian writer and thinker born here, the park is lined with benches, flowerbeds, and historic statues. People come here to read, sip juice, chat, or just enjoy the breeze and the scent of roses drifting from nearby gardens. The adjacent botanical garden features native Andean plants, tropical flowers, and quiet shaded areas ideal for escaping the midday sun.

Open all year and totally free, this park is the kind of place where you might catch a local choir rehearsing or an impromptu guitar performance. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find cafés, artisan shops, and the city’s main cathedral. It’s both a scenic rest stop and a cultural hub in the center of it all. Bonus: it’s one of the best people-watching spots in town.

3. Hike the Trail to La Liria Waterfall

If you’re looking for fresh air and natural beauty, the hike to Cascada de La Liria offers just the right mix of challenge and reward. This waterfall trail begins near the city’s outskirts and takes you through forested paths, stone staircases, and scenic overlooks before reaching the cascade. The waterfall itself isn’t massive — but it’s peaceful, photogenic, and perfect for a cool-down rest surrounded by nature sounds. It’s a favorite among locals for weekend hikes or morning workouts.

The trail is well-marked and accessible most of the year, though it’s best to go during the dry season (June to September) for clearer paths. You don’t need a guide, but wear decent shoes and bring water. You’ll pass small farms and views of Tungurahua volcano in the distance. For a short but satisfying escape from the city buzz, this hike hits the spot.

4. Visit the Casa del Portal and Explore Local Art

On the corner of Ambato’s main plaza stands the beautiful Casa del Portal, a historic building turned cultural center and gallery space. Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibits of local artists, photography, sculpture, and artisan crafts that reflect the city’s evolving creative scene. The building itself is a colonial-style landmark with arched balconies and intricate ironwork — perfect for snapping a few photos before stepping inside. Entry is often free or low-cost, and there are occasional evening workshops and events hosted here.

The space also honors famous Ambateño artists like Juan Benigno Vela and Montalvo, blending history with modern expression. Whether you’re a casual observer or a serious art lover, the gallery is an inspiring and peaceful way to connect with the city’s identity. It’s also a great rainy-day activity or midday stop between meals and markets. Don’t miss the small shop inside that sells locally made crafts and prints.

5. Eat Your Way Through Mercado Central de Ambato

If you want to taste the heart of Ambato, head straight to the Mercado Central, the city’s culinary core. This vibrant indoor market is bursting with flavors — from fried empanadas and fresh fruit juices to hornado (slow-roasted pork) and llapingachos (cheesy potato patties). It’s where locals eat lunch, chat with vendors, and shop for produce so fresh it might’ve been picked that morning. The energy is contagious and the food is affordable — making it perfect for hungry travelers.

Visit in the morning for the full effect, when stalls are fully stocked and the aromas fill the air. Grab a juice from the juguería section, a plate of fritada, and finish with a sweet pan de Ambato. You won’t find white-tablecloth service here, but you will find authenticity in every bite. Come hungry, leave happy — and maybe a little obsessed.

6. Take a Day Trip to Parque de la Familia

Just a short drive outside Ambato lies Parque de la Familia, a scenic eco-park nestled in the hills with panoramic views, walking trails, and green picnic areas. It’s ideal for a slow afternoon or a family-friendly day trip — especially if you want to escape the city but not go too far. There are botanical zones, barbecue pits, playgrounds, and lookout points where you can see Ambato from above. On clear days, you might even spot Chimborazo and Tungurahua volcanoes in the distance.

Open year-round with affordable entry, the park is a favorite for locals on weekends and holidays. You can rent pedal cars for kids, pack your own picnic, or grab snacks from on-site vendors. Nature lovers will appreciate the quiet trails and curated plant life, while photographers will love the high-altitude backdrops. It’s peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for all ages.

7. Catch a Weekend Cultural Show at La Matriz Cathedral Square

Every weekend, especially in the evenings, Plaza de la Matriz comes alive with impromptu performances and organized cultural shows right outside Ambato’s historic cathedral. Expect everything from folk dancing and live Andean music to poetry readings and youth theater groups. These free shows are supported by the local government and often highlight rising artists and cultural themes tied to Ambateño identity. The backdrop — cathedral domes lit against a mountain sky — makes it even more magical.

Even if there’s no scheduled show, this plaza is still worth a visit. Street vendors sell hot choclo con queso, balloons, and local candies, while kids run through the square chasing pigeons. Benches fill with couples, elders, and tourists, all soaking in the vibe. It’s a warm, community-driven atmosphere that turns even a casual evening stroll into something memorable.

8. Relax in the Nearby Baños Thermal Baths

While technically just outside Ambato, the town of Baños de Agua Santa is so close it makes for an easy day trip — especially for its famous thermal baths and adventure sports. After an hour’s scenic bus or taxi ride, you’ll arrive in a tropical canyon town filled with waterfalls, hot springs, and zipline parks. Soak in natural pools at Termas de la Virgen, where the steamy mineral water flows right from the surrounding mountains. The baths are open year-round and especially popular in the evenings when the air cools but the water stays toasty.

If you’re feeling more active, Baños also offers bike rentals, canyoning tours, and the famous Swing at the End of the World nearby. But even if you go just for the baths, it’s worth the trip. The contrast between the lush greenery and Ambato’s cool mountain air makes Baños feel like another world. A dip here will leave you relaxed and recharged for your return.

9. Shop for Handmade Leather in Atocha-La Matriz

Ambato is known for its high-quality leatherwork, and the best place to shop is the Atocha-La Matriz neighborhood — home to small family-run workshops and stylish boutiques. Whether you’re looking for belts, jackets, shoes, or bags, you’ll find handmade goods crafted with care and often sold at half the price of Quito or Cuenca. Many artisans use traditional tanning methods and are happy to explain the process if you ask. It’s a great place to pick up a durable, beautiful souvenir that supports local talent.

This area also has a quiet charm with narrow streets, colorful murals, and little cafés perfect for a coffee stop while you shop. Most stores are open daily, and prices are negotiable — so don’t be afraid to ask for a bundle deal. Even if you don’t buy anything, just browsing the craftsmanship and chatting with vendors is an experience on its own. And yes — everything smells like real leather.

10. Watch the Sunset from Mirador de Pinllo

For a beautiful way to end the day, head up to the Mirador de Pinllo, a quiet viewpoint on the edge of the city that overlooks Ambato and the valley below. It’s especially stunning at golden hour when the sky explodes with color over the rooftops and volcanoes. Locals bring snacks, drinks, and good conversation — often turning the moment into an informal hangout or romantic date spot. It’s a favorite among photographers and sunset seekers who want a peaceful but epic view.

There’s a small chapel nearby and walking paths that wind through rural terrain, giving you that “escape without leaving” feeling. Pack a jacket — it can get chilly once the sun goes down — and maybe bring a flashlight if you plan to linger. This spot is about slowing down, catching your breath, and remembering why Ecuador’s highlands are such a special place. You’ll leave with a full heart and a full camera roll.

What to do if you have kids?

Ambato is super kid-friendly and packed with low-cost, active options for families. Take your little ones to Parque de la Familia for playgrounds and outdoor games, or let them run around at Mercado Central while trying fresh fruit smoothies and empanadas. The Tren del Recuerdo (operating on special dates) is also a hit for train-loving kids, and weekend plaza shows offer entertainment without needing a schedule. You’ll find plenty of open space, clean public areas, and snack vendors everywhere — perfect for impromptu mini-adventures. Don’t forget layers — mornings and evenings can get chilly, even when the sun is strong.

Where can I find free events in Ambato Tungurahua taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, artisan fairs, cultural shows, and seasonal festivals happening in Ambato this weekend, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. This AI-powered platform helps you find exactly what’s going on near you without having to scroll endless Facebook pages or local event boards. Whether you’re looking for live music, outdoor markets, or something kid-friendly and spontaneous, it curates options based on your vibe. Just type in your city, and let it plan your weekend — totally free.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Ambato

Ambato is one of those rare cities that gives you culture, calm, and connection all at once — no crowds required. From its flower festivals to waterfall hikes, steamy food stalls to artisan leather shops, it offers a deeper look at Ecuador beyond the usual travel circuit. The people are welcoming, the pace is chill, and the beauty unfolds slowly, one delicious bite or sunset at a time.

Whether you’re road-tripping through the Andes or looking for a meaningful weekend escape, Ambato is ready — any season, any reason.