Guaranda is the capital of the province of Bolívar. Located in the heart of the country, quaint Guaranda is the smallest provincial capital in the highlands. Its pleasant climate make it very popular with visitors. The carnival festivities of the area have gained fame throughout Ecuador.

Surrounded by the peaks of San Jacinto, Loma de Guaranda, San Bartolo, Cruzloma, Tililac, Talalac and El Mirador, Guaranda is known as the "City of the Seven Hills". The carnival festivities are very traditional and last for several days. Visitors are offered chicha (a local, maize-based alcoholic drink) and the popular fire-water known as Pájaro Azul (Blue bird) which helps them get into the spirit of the festivities.

Tourist Offices
There is a tourist information office at Garcia Moreno, between 7 de Mayo and Convención de 1884.

Around and closeby
Two kilometres up from the statue Guarango is El Troje, on the road to Salinas de Guaranda, there is a chance to see another set of nature's wonders. You can walk two hours along the canyon here to view a splendid waterfall called "El Infiernillo".

Sightseeing
Over shadowing the whole town, 3km away, is the impressive 5-metre-high, sculptured statue of the El Indio Guaranga, who sits perched on a hill. From here a magnificent view of the area may be enjoyed, along with the snow crested peaks of Chimborazo Volcano. The statue is next to a Cultural centre and also has a history museum in addition to the ethnographic history region by region.

Getting there
The bus station is located towards Riobamba and Babahoyo at Eliza Mariño Carvajal. Bus services run to and from Guayaquil, Quito, Riobamba and Ambato.