The clatter of the Devil’s Nose train echoes through Alausí’s central plaza as vendors arrange fresh Andean produce.
Alausí is a small Andean town in Chimborazo province known as the gateway to the Devil’s Nose railway. Around 7,000 people live here, preserving a colonial grid and daily market life. Visitors come to experience the engineering feat of the switchback train and to walk streets shaped by indigenous and Spanish influences. The town’s location 75 miles / 120 km south of Riobamba makes it a cultural stop with a strong connection to Andean village life. The focus here is on understanding the local rhythm, crafts, and the historic railway that shaped the region.
Ride the Devil’s Nose train for its engineering and views, explore the central market for local crafts, and visit the historic railway museum to grasp Alausí’s role in Andean transport.
Key takeaways
- Ride the Devil’s Nose train from Alausí station for a 3-hour switchback journey.
- Visit the central market daily from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM for local produce and crafts.
- Explore the railway museum near the station, open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, entrance ~$5 (2026).
- Walk the colonial grid around Plaza Sucre, the town’s historic heart.
- Travel between June and September for dry weather and clearer mountain views.
Why visit Alausí
Alausí stands apart from nearby Riobamba and Cuenca as the gateway to the Devil’s Nose switchback railway, a feat of Andean engineering. The town’s colonial grid centers around the modest plaza, where local markets and daily life reveal Chimborazo province’s heritage. This is where culture and history meet the rugged Andean landscape, with the railway carving dramatic curves down steep cliffs. Alausí invites you to explore village life shaped by this railway legacy, not just another Andean stop.
- Board the Devil’s Nose train for a jaw-dropping descent through tight switchbacks and steep slopes.
- Explore the colonial plaza and its surrounding streets where local vendors sell traditional Andean crafts.
- Visit during the low season (May–August) to avoid crowds and see the railway operating with more local passengers.
- Discover the overlooked neighborhood near the train station where families maintain railway traditions and stories.
Best for
Solo travelers curious about railway history and village life will appreciate Alausí’s slow pace and authentic vibe. Culture-focused visitors who want to understand how this railway shaped local identity find it rewarding.
Skip if
Skip Alausí if you want nightlife or polished tourist infrastructure; head to Cuenca for urban culture or Riobamba for broader regional access.
Top things to do in Alausí
Alausí revolves around the Devil’s Nose train station, where heritage and engineering collide. Start with the iconic switchback railway ride that defines this town’s place in Andean history.
1. Devil’s Nose Train Ride ·
Ride the famous switchback railway that carved through the Andes, a feat of engineering and local history.
Board the historic train at Alausí’s station for a slow, twisting journey down the Devil’s Nose switchbacks. The ride reveals rugged Andean slopes and offers a window into the railway’s role in connecting remote communities. Licensed local operators run departures several times a week, making it a living piece of heritage rather than a tourist show.
This ride is the defining experience of Alausí, eclipsing any simple town tour or museum visit because it physically connects you to the landscape and history. Skip just walking the station plaza; the train ride delivers the real story.
- When: Morning departures on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday avoid afternoon crowds and capture the best light on the cliffs.
- Cost: ~$15, 2026
- Duration: Half day
- How to reach: Walk 5 minutes from the central plaza to the Alausí train station on Calle Sucre.
Insider tip: If closed
Explore the local railway museum near the station to understand the switchback’s engineering and impact.
Solo female travel: The station area stays busy during train days, and ticket counters accept card payments; return trips run until late afternoon.
2. Walk the Colonial Old Town ·
Explore Alausí’s compact colonial grid where Andean life and Spanish heritage blend in quiet streets.
Wander the cobblestone streets around the central plaza, spotting whitewashed churches, colorful balconies, and small artisan shops. Local markets nearby sell handwoven textiles and traditional foods that reveal Chimborazo province culture. The town’s scale lets you absorb daily life without rushing.
This walk complements the train ride by grounding you in Alausí’s lived culture, unlike more touristy plazas in bigger cities. It’s the best way to see who lives here and how the town’s history shapes daily rhythms.
- When: Late morning or early afternoon, Monday through Saturday, when markets are active and shops are open.
- Cost: Free
- Duration: 2 hours
- How to reach: Start from the central plaza; everything is walkable within 10 minutes.
Insider tip: If closed
Visit the local church interiors, which are open most days and offer shelter if rain interrupts outdoor walking.
Solo female travel: The old town is safe and well-lit in the evening; many cafes stay open until 8 PM for solo travelers seeking a quiet spot.
3. Visit the Local Textile Cooperative ·
See traditional weaving techniques and support indigenous artisans preserving Andean crafts.
Join a short guided visit to a nearby cooperative where women handcraft textiles using ancient backstrap looms. The visit includes demonstrations of natural dyeing and explanations of symbolic patterns tied to Chimborazo identity. You can buy directly from the makers, ensuring fair prices.
This experience goes beyond souvenirs by connecting you with the cultural roots behind the textiles. It beats generic market stalls because you meet the artisans and learn their stories.
- When: Weekdays between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM to avoid weekend closures and support steady local attendance.
- Cost: ~$5 donation suggested
- Duration: 1 hour
- How to reach: Take a short taxi or colectivo ride east from the plaza, about 1 mile / 1.6 km on Avenida 10 de Agosto.
Insider tip: If closed
Browse textiles at the central market stalls where local families sell their work directly on weekends.
Solo female travel: The cooperative welcomes solo visitors and offers a calm, respectful environment ideal for asking questions.
4. Sample Traditional Chimborazo Dishes ·
Taste hearty, local Andean dishes that reflect the agricultural heritage of Chimborazo province.
Choose a family-run eatery near the plaza to try dishes like hornado (slow-roasted pork) or mote pillo (hominy scrambled with eggs). Meals come with fresh Andean vegetables and locally grown corn, offering a direct connection to the region’s farming traditions. These spots favor simplicity and flavor over tourist menus.
Eating here grounds your visit in local life better than upscale restaurants or fast food. The flavors tell history through ingredients and cooking style unique to this area.
- When: Lunch, between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, when kitchens are freshest and dishes just out of the oven.
- Cost: ~$6-$8 per meal, 2026
- Duration: 1 hour
- How to reach: Walk 3 minutes from the plaza to the cluster of small family diners on Calle Bolívar.
Insider tip: If closed
Grab a fresh empanada or local fruit from street vendors around the plaza.
Solo female travel: These eateries are casual and busy, with communal tables that make dining solo comfortable and safe.
5. Explore the Local Market ·
Dive into daily life by visiting Alausí’s vibrant market, where locals buy and sell fresh produce and crafts.
Spend an hour wandering the central market, watching farmers sell Andean potatoes, cheeses, and flowers. The market spills into adjacent streets on market days, offering a sensory snapshot of local commerce and social interaction. It’s a practical way to see what fuels the town’s households.
This market visit adds texture to your understanding of Alausí beyond tourist sites, showing local priorities and rhythms. It beats visiting only the plaza or church for insight.
- When: Early morning, 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, especially Thursday and Sunday market days.
- Cost: Free entry
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours
- How to reach: Located just south of the central plaza, walk 2 minutes via Calle Sucre.
Insider tip: If closed
Spend time at the plaza cafes nearby watching passersby if the market is unusually quiet.
Solo female travel: The market is busy early but well-organized; keep bags close and stay alert during peak hours.
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24 hours in Alausí
This plan suits travelers curious about Alausí’s layered heritage and village life, focusing on its role as the gateway to the Devil’s Nose railway and local culture in a relaxed cultural rhythm.
Morning
Start your day at the central market around 7:30 AM, where vendors sell fresh Andean produce and traditional snacks. Watch locals barter and sample a warm cup of herbal tea from a street stall. By 9:00 AM, walk the historic grid of Alausí’s colonial center, paying attention to the old railway station and the colorful murals that hint at the town’s railway legacy. Stop by one of the small cafés near the plaza for a mid-morning empanada and coffee, soaking in the slow morning bustle.
Afternoon
At noon, head to the train station to catch the Devil’s Nose train ride, the day’s highlight. This switchback railway descends steeply through the Andes, offering a vivid look at engineering heritage and Andean village life below. Return by mid-afternoon and recharge with a hearty plate of local hornado pork at a family-run eatery near the plaza. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the small weaving cooperative nearby, where you see local artisans at work and learn about Chimborazo’s textile traditions.
Evening
As the sun sets, walk up to the viewpoint overlooking the railway switchbacks and town rooftops for a quiet moment. Dinner calls for a simple meal at one of the modest restaurants serving Ecuadorian staples like llapingachos or mote soup. The evening rhythm slows here, with locals gathering in the plaza, making it ideal for people-watching and chatting with friendly vendors before turning in.
If you have a second day
Add a morning visit to the nearby indigenous villages to deepen your understanding of local customs and crafts. Follow that with a relaxed afternoon walking the quieter streets around Alausí’s outskirts, where colonial architecture blends with village life.
Best time to visit Alausí
Quick answer
Visit from April to June or October to early December for dry weather and clear views of the Devil’s Nose railway.
| Months to go | April to June, October to early December |
|---|---|
| Months to avoid | January to March due to heavy rain and muddy trails |
Alausí’s dry months from April to June and October to early December offer the best conditions for walking the Devil’s Nose railway and exploring the town’s colonial streets. Temperatures stay steady around 55°F to 65°F, making outdoor activities comfortable without the chill of higher elevations. The rainy season from January through March brings frequent showers that muddy trails and obscure mountain views, limiting railway photo ops and village walks. The shoulder months keep rainfall low enough to enjoy markets and local crafts without interruption. Avoid the wettest months to keep your plans on track and your gear dry.
Average temperature (°F)
Monthly weather
heavy rain, muddy trails
wettest month, limited outdoor
rainy, slippery railway paths
drying out, clearer views
dry, ideal for walking
dry, cool, less crowded
dry but cooler, good for culture
light rain, quieter town
increasing rain, fewer visitors
drying, good for village walks
early rains, quieter streets
wet, less reliable outdoors
How to get to Alausí
Nearest airport
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), about 110 miles / 180 km northwest, roughly 3.5 hours by road
From the airport
Take a direct interprovincial bus from the Quitumbe terminal in Quito to Alausí for around $8-$12, 2026; book tickets at the terminal or via local apps. Skip taxis from the airport—they cost $50+ and don’t save time given traffic and terminal location.
Other ways to arrive
- Guayaquil by bus, 5-6 hours, $10-$15, 2026
- Riobamba by bus, 1.5 hours, $3-$5, 2026
- Cuenca by bus, 6-7 hours, $15-$20, 2026
Getting around Alausí
Walking dominates in Alausí’s compact center, perfect for exploring colonial streets and markets. For trips outside town, shared taxis offer the best balance of cost and local interaction.
- Walk: Use for all downtown exploration, free and immersive.
- Shared taxi: Use for nearby villages or Devil’s Nose station, $1-$2 per ride, 2026.
- Moto-taxi: Use only for short hops within town, $0.50-$1, 2026.
Avoid
Avoid renting a car; roads around Alausí are rough and parking is scarce in the historic center.
Day trips from Alausí
These day trips extend your understanding of the Andes and local life beyond Alausí’s Devil’s Nose station.
Devil’s Nose Train Ride
Experience the engineering marvel of the switchback railway and Andean mountain views.
Why: This ride reveals the dramatic terrain shaping Alausí’s history, unlike any other local outing.
Chimborazo Wildlife Reserve
See vicuñas and explore high-altitude páramo ecosystems near Ecuador’s highest peak.
Why: Offers a contrast to town life with Andean wildlife and landscape tied to indigenous traditions.
Skip if: Skip if short on time or focused strictly on cultural heritage.
Riobamba Colonial Walk
Explore a larger colonial city with museums, markets, and a cathedral.
Why: Riobamba adds urban context to Alausí’s rural setting and deepens historical perspective.
Combine Alausí with
Alausí fits naturally into an Ecuador itinerary focused on Andean heritage and mountain culture.
7-day Andean Heritage Loop Quito → Riobamba → Alausí → Baños
This route moves south through Ecuador’s highlands, connecting colonial cities and indigenous culture with outdoor highlights.
10-day Ecuador Highlands Circuit Quito → Otavalo → Alausí → Cuenca
Link northern markets and crafts with Alausí’s railway history and Cuenca’s colonial architecture for a layered cultural trip.
Where to stay in Alausí
Alausí’s lodging clusters around the historic center and near the Devil’s Nose train station, the town’s heartbeat. Travelers who want easy access to the railway and old town pick the central plaza area, while those seeking quieter streets opt for neighborhoods just uphill along Bolívar Street.
Budget — Around the train station and Central Plaza
Simple guesthouses and family-run hostels offer dorm beds or basic private rooms near the train station. These places get you close to the Devil’s Nose departure but lack modern amenities and soundproofing.
Insider tip: Request a room facing the courtyard to avoid train noise early morning.
Mid-range — Bolívar Street neighborhood
Mid-range stays include small boutique hotels and guesthouses with private bathrooms and local decor. They balance comfort with cultural character, mostly clustered near Bolívar Street, offering walkable access to old town and quieter evenings.
Insider tip: Book rooms on upper floors for better light and less street noise.
Where not to stay
Avoid lodging along the main avenue east of the train station; it gets loud after 11 PM due to crowds gathering post-train arrivals.
Solo female travelers
Choose guesthouses on Bolívar Street where street lighting stays strong after dark and local shops remain open; many have female-run hostels with secure locks and social common areas.
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Where to eat and drink in Alausí
Alausí’s cuisine reflects its mountain setting and indigenous heritage, with hearty dishes using local tubers and Andean herbs. The nearby central market offers fresh produce and ingredients shaped by the Chimborazo province’s farming traditions. The Kichwa community influences cooking styles, especially in slow-cooked stews and corn-based preparations.
Must-try dishes
Fritada (Andean pork roast)
Pork slow-cooked in its own fat with garlic, cumin, and orange, served with corn, potatoes, and llapingachos (potato patties).
Insider tip: Eat this mid-morning when fresh; afternoon versions tend to dry out or get reheated repeatedly.
Mote Pillo (scrambled hominy)
Corn kernels cooked and scrambled with eggs, onion, and mild spices, often served as a breakfast or side dish.
Insider tip: Order it with fresh panela cheese on the side for a creamy contrast.
Caldo de Gallina (hen soup)
Rich chicken broth with potatoes, corn, and herbs, served hot with a wedge of lime and ají sauce.
Insider tip: Best eaten early afternoon when the broth is freshest; avoid touristy stalls that use powder stock.
Local drinks
- Chicha de JoraSample it at market vendors or local festivals where homemade versions are served in clay cups.
Fermented corn drink with a mildly sour flavor, traditionally brewed by indigenous communities in the Andes. - Canela TeaAvailable at street stalls near the central plaza and in small cafés frequented by locals.
A warming herbal infusion made from cinnamon bark, popular in highland towns for its digestive benefits.
How to eat like a local in Alausí
Lunch is the main meal—most local kitchens close by 4:00 PM and reopen only as bars. Eat between 12:00 and 2:00 PM to catch freshly prepared dishes and avoid reheated leftovers.
Dietary note
Vegetarian options are limited; most dishes center on pork, chicken, or corn. Request mote-based dishes and soups without meat, but expect few fully vegan or gluten-free choices.
Daily budget for Alausí
Alausí’s daily costs sit slightly above Ecuador’s average due to its role as the gateway for the Devil’s Nose train. Expect modest price bumps on lodging and activities tied to the railway experience.
Shoestring
- lodging — dorm bed or basic guesthouse room
- food — local markets and small eateries
- transport — local buses and walking
- activities — self-guided town walk and free viewpoints
- buffer — small extras or snacks
Trade-offs: You’ll skip the train ride and stay in very basic accommodations with limited comfort.
Comfort
- lodging — private room in a family-run guesthouse
- food — meals at local mid-range restaurants
- transport — taxi rides and occasional bus trips
- activities — Devil’s Nose train ticket plus guided tours
- buffer — souvenirs or occasional splurges
Trade-offs: You get the train experience but avoid upscale lodging or pricey meals.
Splurge
- lodging — boutique hotel or upgraded guesthouse
- food — dining at higher-end local restaurants
- transport — private taxis or arranged transfers
- activities — private guided Devil’s Nose train tour plus cultural visits
- buffer — tips, drinks, and extras
Trade-offs: You pay for comfort and exclusivity but might miss out on deeper local market interactions.
Money-saver tip
Buy your Devil’s Nose train ticket directly at the station early morning to avoid inflated third-party prices.
Splurge that’s worth it
Booking a private guided tour of the Devil’s Nose railway with local storytelling adds context that transforms the ride into a cultural journey.
Skip to save
Skip the overpriced souvenir shops near the train station; local artisans sell better-quality crafts at the central market for less.
Practical tips for Alausí
Money
| Cash or card | Carry cash for most purchases; card acceptance is rare outside banks and larger hotels. |
|---|---|
| ATMs | Find a few ATMs near the central plaza that accept major foreign cards but expect ~3-5% withdrawal fees. |
| Tipping | Tip 10% in restaurants when service is good; rounding up small bills for taxi drivers is common. |
Safety
Alausí is straightforward for travelers who stay around the town center and the train station area.
Common scams:
- Taxi drivers overcharging foreigners by ignoring the meter
- Street vendors inflating prices for souvenirs near the train station
Local warnings:
- Strong sun at high altitude requires sunscreen and hydration
- Uneven cobblestone streets around the old town can cause trips
- Train platform edges are narrow; watch your step when boarding
Connectivity
| Mobile data | Mobile coverage is reliable with Claro or Movistar SIMs; Claro offers better data packages for short stays. |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi is spotty and slow in most cafes; better in mid-range hotels near the plaza. |
Language
| Main language | Spanish |
|---|---|
| English level | English is limited mainly to younger vendors and hotel staff near the train station. |
Cultural notes
| Dress modestly when visiting churches, covering shoulders and knees |
| Ask permission before photographing locals, especially elders |
| Greet with a handshake and a polite ‘Buenos días’ or ‘Buenas tardes’ |
Solo female travel
Solo female travelers navigate Alausí comfortably by sticking to well-traveled areas and daytime activities.
| Neighborhood | Stay near the central plaza for easy access to transport and social spots. |
|---|---|
| Transport | Use registered taxis or prearranged rides after dark; avoid hailing random cars on the street. |
| Meeting people | Meet locals and travelers at cafes around the plaza that host communal tables and message boards. |
Frequently asked questions about Alausí
1Why is Alausí known for the Devil’s Nose train?
Alausí is the gateway to the Devil’s Nose railway, a historic engineering feat with switchbacks carved into steep Andean cliffs. This rail line offers one of the most dramatic train rides in South America, drawing travelers interested in railroad history and mountain landscapes.
2How many days do you need in Alausí to explore its culture and train ride?
Two full days cover the essentials: one day for the Devil’s Nose train trip and another to walk Alausí’s colonial streets and visit local markets. Adding a third day lets you dive deeper into nearby villages or artisan workshops.
3Is Alausí safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Alausí is safe for solo female travelers, especially around the central plaza and train station. Stick to well-lit streets after dark and use registered taxis for late returns to your lodging.
4Do you need a car or 4×4 to visit Alausí and the Devil’s Nose train station?
No car is necessary. Alausí is easily accessible by bus from Riobamba, and the train station sits within walking distance of the town center. Local buses and taxis handle short trips to nearby villages.
5Can you drink the tap water in Alausí?
Skip tap water in Alausí. Buy bottled water or use filtered water from your accommodation. This keeps you safe from common waterborne stomach issues reported by travelers.
6What is the food like in Alausí?
Local food focuses on hearty Andean staples like roasted pork, corn-based dishes, and fresh cheese. Try the small eateries around the central plaza for traditional meals cooked by families who’ve lived here for generations.
7When is the best time to visit Alausí for the train ride?
Visit between June and September for dry weather and clearer views of the Andes. The train runs year-round but rain can disrupt schedules outside the dry season.
8Is it safe to walk around Alausí at night?
Yes, but limit walks to the well-lit central plaza and main streets. Avoid poorly lit alleys after dark and use a taxi if returning late from the train station or market.
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