Ambato is a city in the central Andean Highlands of Ecuador.

Understand

Ambato is an important industrial hub in Ecuador and as such, most tourists won't see much more than the bus terminal as a stopover on the way to Baños.

Get in

Given its central location in the country, Ambato is well connected to all parts of the country. Buses run from Quito (2.5 hr), Baños ($1, 1 hr), Cuenca ($6, 6 hr), Riobamba ($1.25, 1 hr), and many others.

See

• City Center. Much of the city has been devastated multiple times by earthquakes, most recently in 1949, so don't get your expectations too high when visiting the city center. The cathedral from 1954 next to Parque Juan Montalvo is considered the landmark of Ambato; however, most locals (and visitors) are not too excited about its modern architecture. A highlight of the center are seven large murals that have been painted onto the walls of some public buildings in early 2017. (updated Feb 2017)
• Jardín Botánico Atocha-La Liria. Ambato's botanical gardens (updated Feb 2017)

Eat

Pastelería Quito (Mera 547 and Cavallos). Famous Ambato's bread, Brakfast, Cafeteria and Pastry.

Go next

Baños