
Ambato, the City of Flowers and Fruits in the Heart of Ecuador
Located in central Ecuador, Ambato is a city that stands out for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Known as the "City of Flowers and Fruits", Ambato is famous for its annual Festival of Fruits and Flowers festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world. But there is much more to Ambato than just its festival. From its stunning landscapes to its rich history and culture, Ambato has something for everyone.
History and Culture
Ambato has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times. It was an important cultural and commercial center for indigenous people before the arrival of the Spanish. Today, visitors can explore this history at places like the Juan Montalvo House Museum, which houses a collection of historical artifacts and works of art.
Festival of Fruits and Flowers
The most famous event in Ambato is the Festival of Fruits and Flowers. This annual festival, held in February, is a celebration of the region's abundance of fruits and flowers. The festival includes parades, concerts, art exhibitions and more. It is an excellent opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Ambato.
Parks and Nature
Ambato is also famous for its natural beauty. The city is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, making it a popular destination for hiking and climbing. Llanganates National Park, for example, offers stunning views and a wide variety of flora and fauna. In addition, the Atocha-La Liria Botanical Garden is a beautiful place to walk and enjoy the variety of plants and flowers.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Ambato is another of its great attractions. The city is famous for its delicious local dishes, such as llapingachos (potato tortillas), cuy (guinea pig) and chicha, a traditional fermented drink. Visitors can enjoy these and other dishes at the city's many restaurants and markets.
Conclusion
Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature or gastronomy, Ambato has something to offer. With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine, Ambato is a destination worth visiting.
Gastronomic products of Ambato
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Llapingachos
Llapingachos are a type of potato tortillas filled with cheese, very popular in Ambato. They are served accompanied by chorizo, fried egg, avocado and a beet and carrot salad. This dish is a true delight and an example of the rich gastronomy of the region.
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Pan de Ambato
Ambato is famous for its bread, which is characterized by its unique flavor and soft texture. There are several varieties, such as milk bread, cassava bread and corn bread. The latter is especially popular and is often consumed with fresh cheese.
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Traditional sweets
Ambato is known for its traditional sweets, such as melcochas, dulce de leche and alfajores. These sweets are made by hand and are highly appreciated by residents and visitors of the city. They are the perfect complement to a cup of coffee or tea.
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Fried
Fritada is a typical dish from Ambato that consists of fried pork accompanied by mote (cooked corn), ripe banana, potatoes and salad. It is a very tasty and filling dish, ideal for meat lovers.
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Ceviche
Originally from Peru but popular in many coastal South American countries, ceviche is a refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juice, usually lemon or lime, and seasoned with onion, cilantro and chili. It is known for its freshness and vibrant flavor.
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Empanadas
These are filled pastas that can be found in almost all South American countries, although their fillings and shapes can vary significantly from place to place. Empanadas can be filled with meat, chicken, cheese, ham, or combinations of ingredients such as meat with olives and eggs. They can be baked or fried, and are popular as snacks or quick meals.
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Pisco
Pisco is a grape spirit that is very popular in Peru and Chile, where each country has its own designation of origin and unique production traditions. It is the main ingredient of the famous Pisco Sour cocktail, which combines pisco with lemon juice, egg white, sugar and Angostura bitters. This liquor is a distinctive drink of the region and is celebrated with festivals and competitions in both countries.

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Featured gastronomic places in Ambato
Ambato, known as the "Land of Flowers and Fruits", offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its rich cuisine. Below we present some of the most notable ones:
Aromas del Tungurahua Restaurant
Located in the center of Ambato, Aromas del Tungurahua Restaurant is known for its excellent Ecuadorian cuisine. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as llapingacho, fritada and the famous roast guinea pig. In addition, the cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.
The Art Tavern
If you are looking for a place with charm and good prices, La Taberna del Arte is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of tapas and typical Ambateño dishes, such as empanadas de viento, tamales and guatita. In addition, its extensive wine list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of Ecuadorian wines.
Picantería El Arenal
For lovers of spicy food, Picantería El Arenal is a must-see place. This restaurant specializes in typical dishes from the Central Sierra of Ecuador, with a spicy touch that gives it its name. Here you can enjoy dishes such as guinea pig with potatoes, trout with chili and dry goat, all accompanied by a homemade spicy sauce that will make you want to come back for more.
The Portal House
Located in an old colonial house, La Casa del Portal is a restaurant that combines tradition with innovation. Its menu offers a variety of typical dishes from the region, such as hornado, fritada and yaguarlocro, but with a modern and creative touch. In addition, its cozy atmosphere and excellent service make this place an ideal option for a romantic dinner or a family meal.
Sports Activities in Ambato, Ecuador
Trekking and Mountaineering
Ambato is surrounded by impressive mountains and volcanoes, making it an ideal place for trekking and mountaineering. You can explore the famous Tungurahua volcano or the Llanganates National Park.


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Mountain Biking
Ambato's mountainous terrain offers challenging routes for mountain biking. You can rent a bike and explore the trails around the city.


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Rafting
The Pastaza River, near Ambato, is known for its rapids and is a popular place for rafting. There are several companies that offer rafting tours for all skill levels.


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Football
Football is the most popular sport in Ecuador and Ambato is no exception. You can catch a match at the Bellavista Stadium or even join a local game at one of the city's many fields.


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Places near Ambato
If you're in Ambato and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns offering unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:


