Nizag

Overview

Description

Nizag, the community and the community-based tourism operation, is in the La Matriz parrish of Alausí canton in Chimborazo province; its people belong to the Kichwa ethnic group of the central region of Ecuador. The 370 families there are fierce defenders of their culture and their living territories.

The climate of this region is blessed because, although it is in a mountainous area, temperatures range from 46° to 66° Fahrenheit at an altitude of 8,278 feet above sea level (2,523 meters). Thanks to the agreeable temperate climate, it is possible to farm a variety of highland products such as potatoes, lima beans, mellocos (a plant with edible leaves and potato-like tubers), wheat, and barley, plus temperate zone products like guavas, oranges, lemons, avocados, sugarcane, and more.

The community is located by the old train station in Sibambe, and its history is tied to the history of the train. The train “La Nariz del Diablo” (Devil’s Nose) is one of the most interesting tourism attractions in Chimborazo province, and along with its marvelous stopovers and the culture that has been zealously preserved by the people, your trip will be truly unforgettable.

Rooms

2

Making a Difference

Number of employees: 22

Percentage of local employees: 100%

The local people, in addition to being farmers and excellent ranchers, are the creators of marvelous, colorful handicrafts using sisal fibers. They make shigras (bags), necklaces, bracelets, and hats from this material. The 22 members are in direct coordination with the community and develop community-based tourism throughout their territory.

Income from the tour services are reinvested in productive projects for the community such as: education, health, training, and other priorities. A percentage also goes to promote and market their tour services.

For centuries the community has guarded its food sovereignty by growing organic crops. Continuing to maintain their natural and cultural heritage is the people’s main objective.

Rates

$51 – $75

Program: Cóndor Puñuna - train excursion about cultural identity (in acémila, on mule-back).*
One-day duration.
The following are prices for this program, in US dollars, per person, depending on the number of passengers:

• 2 - 3 passengers: $127
• 4 - 5 passengers: $85
• 6 - 9 passengers: $72
• Up to 10 passengers: $63

Program: Cóndor Puñuna - train excursion about cultural identity (hike)*.
Duration is one day.
The following are prices for this program, in US dollars, per person, depending on the number of passengers:

• 2 - 3 passengers: $112
• 4 - 5 passengers: $70
• 6 - 9 passengers: $56
• Up to 10 passengers: $48

Program: Chiripungo (hike)**.
Duration is one day.
The following are prices for this program, in US dollars, per person, depending on the number of passengers:

• 2 - 3 passengers: $95
• 4 - 5 passengers: $54
• 6 - 9 passengers: $40
• Up to 10 passengers: $32

*Prices include tax, train or trolley ticket, and return transport to the city of Riobamba.

**Prices include tax and return transport to the city of Riobamba.

Getting There

Nearest international airport: Quito (UIO) and Guayaquil (GYE).

Travel time to nearest airport: From Quito approximately 3.5 hours; from Guayaquil approximately 5 hours.

Distance, by land, to the nearest airport: From Quito, 99 miles (160 km); from Guayaquil, 149 miles (240 km).

Additional Information

What to bring?

• personal identification documents;
• sun protection;
• sunglasses;
• camera;
• warm clothing;
• shoes for trekking;
• hat and
• gloves.

What not to bring?

• alcoholic beverages;
• sound equipment;
• weapons and firearms.

Date This Information Was Provided

September 2009.

Photos courtesy of Nizag, Ecuador, for SustainableTrip.org.