Zaruma, Colonial mining town in El Oro Province, Ecuador
Description
Zaruma is a hillside city in El Oro Province with wooden buildings constructed on steep slopes and connected by narrow cobblestone streets and staircases throughout. The entire settlement rises vertically in this distinctive arrangement across hundreds of meters.
History
Spanish settlers founded the city in 1595 as a mining center for gold extraction, which gave it economic importance during colonial times. Mining operations shaped the settlement's structure and appearance that continues today.
Culture
The townspeople celebrate year-round festivals featuring religious processions and local music that shape daily community life. These events reflect customs that have been passed down through generations and remain central to local identity.
Practical
The city sits at 1200 meters elevation with mild temperatures year-round, making it accessible to visitors at any time. The narrow and steep walkways require good footwear and reasonable fitness to explore comfortably throughout the city.
Did you know?
An extensive network of old mining tunnels runs beneath the city, affecting its structures and requiring constant monitoring. This underground history remains unseen by most visitors but shapes the daily challenges residents face.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Zaruma Canton).
Ecuador offers diverse landscapes and architectural subjects for photography. The capital city of Quito features colonial buildings such as the Basilica del Voto Nacional and the narrow streets of La Ronda, while the surrounding highlands contain active volcanoes including Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, and...
Cerro de Arcos
20.8 kmSan Antonio
7 kmGallera de Papabeto
7.7 kmPeña
9.8 kmDurduro
11.5 kmTambillo
12.6 kmHacienda Chacacapak
14.3 kmLos Laureles
15.9 kmPueblo Nuevo
18.2 kmCascada "Arco Iris"
8.8 kmAguas termales
2.2 kmLa Chorrera
3.2 kmPomaYaku
14.5 kmLaguna del amor
11.2 kmCruz de Paccha
13.2 kmEl Sexmo Mina Turística
1.6 kmCruz y Urna de Cristo
9.5 kmCruz del Cerro El Calvario - Mirador
1.3 kmTeatro Municipal
3.8 kmCerro de Cristo - La Cruz
9.5 kmMirador del Cerro San José
4.2 kmChorro Viringo
17.6 kmMirador turístico 5 de Agosto
4 kmScenic viewpoint
4.1 kmScenic viewpoint
4.5 kmScenic viewpoint
1.9 kmWaterfall
8.8 kmCascada Salati
9 km
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes