The indigenous peoples of Saraguro wear dark navy or black clothing with wide brimmed heavy felt hats. The men’s trousers may be described as half-mast and the women’s skirts are finely pleated. The intricate woven bead collars used by the women are very distinctive and the silver jewellery and silverwork on the men’s belts are very indicative of the area.

Market day is Sunday and brings in visitors from the neighbouring valleys. Most people carry locally handwoven saddlebags (alforjas) over their shoulders for their shopping.

Around and closeby
The old Indian trail to the Amazon begins in the neighbouring town on Paquishapa, and the local tourism group arranges guides to Tutupali, Guadalupe and also to the nearby forest reserve of Washapamba. There are many other excellent hikes in the area.

Oña is a small town north of Saraguro. It is the closest point for visiting the Paquistancia ruins and a colourful destination for Palm Sunday parades. Buses between Cuenca and Loja stop on the outskirts, occasionally entering the village if enough people want to get off there.

Sightseeing
A long dormant volcano presides of the town and a museum is under construction to house the many Inca rocks which have been found in the area.

Saraguro women make intricate flower petal adornments for the religious festivals.

Getting there
Express buses between Loja and Cuenca pass on the bypass; slower buses take a turn through town. Some local services go west to Tenta, Celen, El Paraiso, Selva Alegre, Manu and in the dry season to Guanazan. The new road south over the Cerro de Arcos is exceptional in clear weather.