Interprovincial buses connect Riobamba to major cities. Local buses serve towns but can be crowded. Taxis are affordable in cities - negotiate fares beforehand. Uber operates in Riobamba. Car rentals available but mountain driving requires experience. The famous Tren Crucero (luxury) and regular trains run the Riobamba-Alausí route. For remote areas, colectivos (shared vans) or hiring a driver/guide is recommended. Walking is pleasant in Riobamba's historic center.
June to September (dry season) offers clear skies ideal for volcano viewing and hiking. December to January provides pleasant weather with occasional showers. Avoid March-May (heavy rains) when trails become muddy and clouds obscure views. Festival highlights include Riobamba's founding anniversary (April 11), Corpus Christi (June), and indigenous harvest festivals throughout the year.
Respect indigenous communities: Always ask permission before photographing people. Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or rural areas. Greet with "buenos días/tardes." Tipping: 10% in restaurants if service not included; small tips for guides and drivers appreciated. Bargaining is expected in markets but be respectful. Indigenous markets operate on specific days - Saturday in Guamote is particularly authentic. Remove hats when entering homes in rural communities.
Chimborazo is generally safe, but take precautions: Avoid isolated areas after dark, especially around markets and bus stations. Petty theft occurs in crowded places like Riobamba's markets - keep valuables secure. Use registered taxis (yellow with orange plates) or ride-sharing apps. Road safety is a concern on mountain highways - avoid night travel. When hiking Chimborazo, always use certified guides due to altitude risks and changing weather. Political demonstrations occasionally occur - avoid large gatherings. Scams targeting tourists are rare but be cautious with unofficial tour operators.
Altitude sickness (soroche) is a major concern in Chimborazo due to elevations over 3,000m. Acclimatize for 2-3 days before strenuous activity. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol initially. Medical facilities are concentrated in Riobamba: Hospital General Docente (public) and Clínica San Juan (private). Vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccines are recommended. Travelers' diarrhea is common - drink bottled water. Sun protection is crucial due to intense equatorial sun at high altitude. Emergency medical services are limited in rural areas.
