Things To Do
in Pelileo
Pelileo sits in the Andean foothills of central Ecuador, at an elevation that yields mild days and cool nights. The town has long been known for leather goods and textiles, drawing visitors to its bustling workshops and markets. Surrounded by green valleys and volcanic scenery, it serves as a convenient base for day trips to nearby Baños and scenic lookout points.
Visitors are welcomed by friendly artisans, colorful storefronts, and a relaxed Andean pace that makes exploring enjoyable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the bustling local markets in Pelileo, where you can experience vibrant colors and a variety of goods. Interact with friendly vendors and indulge in traditional Ecuadorian breakfast dishes, such as llapingachos (potato patties) and fresh fruit juices. Capture the essence of local life as you stroll through the narrow aisles filled with textiles, handicrafts, and fresh produce.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby town of Ambato to explore the Museo Casa del Portal, where you can learn about the region's rich cultural history. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, sampling more regional specialties. If time permits, take a walk through the picturesque Parque Cevallos, which is adorned with beautiful flowers and sculptures.
As evening falls, return to Pelileo and experience the local dining scene at a family-owned restaurant. Savor hearty dishes like locro de papa (potato soup) while soaking in the warm atmosphere filled with laughter and conversation. End your day with a stroll under the stars, appreciating the tranquil surroundings and the Sounds of the night.
Embark on an adventurous hike in the lush landscapes surrounding Pelileo. The crisp morning air will invigorate your senses as you witness stunning views of the Andes Mountains and diverse flora and fauna. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting a nearby waterfall, where you can relax and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. The sound of cascading water will transport you to a serene state while you enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Take some time to reflect on your adventure and capture the moments with photos.
Return to Pelileo to unwind after an adventurous day. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, where you can sample regional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Reflect on your experiences and perhaps join a small gathering of locals sharing stories over a warm drink.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Hotel/Hostel per night | $15-40 |
| 🚶Local transportation (within town) | $0.50-3 |
| 🛍️Groceries (weekly) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong leather and textile craft heritage with affordable goods
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace
- Good base for day trips to Baños and surrounding scenery
- Authentic highland cuisine and markets
- Limited nightlife and English widely spoken
- Some areas can be hilly and sidewalks uneven
- Smaller selection of international options compared to bigger cities
- Altitude may affect some visitors at first
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Pelileo
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, colonial church architecture, and a lively plaza offering vibrant morning light and golden-hour scenes.
A riot of colors, textures, and motion—an excellent place to photograph vendors, textiles, and local foods.
A hillside viewpoint above the town that frames the valley and surrounding hills with sweeping light.
Food in Pelileo
Pelileo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork with crispy skin, typically served with mote (cornmeal), llapingachos, or potatoes—common in family eateries and traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
A comforting potato and cheese soup, sometimes enriched with avocado slices and herbs.
Grilled river trout served with plantains, corn tortillas, or beans, reflecting the region’s freshwater catches.
Crispy potato cakes stuffed or served with chorizo, cheese, and peanut sauce on the side.
Steamed corn tamales wrapped in corn husks, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market filled with fresh produce, cheeses, roasted snacks, and daily life chatter—great for spotting local street foods.
Anticuchos, empanadas, empanadas de viento, canelazo stalls (cinnamon-hot beverage) and other simple snacks near the plaza and markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; address adults as señor/señora or don/doña. Maintain polite eye contact and avoid loud behavior in churches and sacred spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Remove hats indoors and refrain from public displays of anger or frustration in markets.
Safety
Tipping in Pelileo
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated in restaurants. For guided tours or workshops, small tips (a few dollars) are customary if you’re satisfied.
Cash in USD is widely accepted in Pelileo. Many larger establishments and hotels accept cards, but some smaller shops and markets prefer cash. Local ATMs are common in the town for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights; ideal for outdoor exploring and hill walks, though mornings can be chilly.
Frequent brief showers and lush greenery; carry a compact rain jacket, and plan flexible outdoor activities around weather windows.
Several local markets and crafts celebrations may occur; great for photography, tastings, and meeting artisans, but streets can be busier.
Pelileo at Night
Hiking in Pelileo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle to moderate hike offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding valleys.
A short loop that passes through farmland and ends at a local waterfall, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Pelileo by plane.
Quito’s main international hub, about a 4–6 hour drive from Pelileo depending on routes and traffic; good for international connections.
Latacunga-based airport offering domestic flights; a common closer gateway to the highlands compared with Quito for some travelers.
Guayaquil’s international airport, further away but useful for regional connections if you’re combining coastal and highland parts of Ecuador.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority in the town, reflecting the blended Indigenous and European heritage common across the highlands.
Smaller communities and family-owned workshops contribute to the regional crafts and agricultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across urban and rural Ecuador, widely followed in Pelileo and the surrounding region.
Valleys and hills offer scenic routes for recreational cycling and some local races.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games and leagues can be found in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pelileo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetarian versions of llapingachos, humitas, locro de papa, and grain bowls; request dairy-free cheese or vegetable toppings where possible. When in doubt, ask for a vegetable-forward dish or a sides plate of beans and corn.