Tungurahua Province, Provincial capital in central Ecuador.
Tungurahua is a province in the Ecuadorian Andes extending across valleys and mountain ranges from 1800 to 5000 meters altitude. The area divides into nine cantons with towns, villages, hot springs, and agricultural fields along river courses.
The province was founded in 1860 during Ecuador's reorganization and served as a link between the coast and the eastern rainforest regions. Road construction in the 20th century allowed closer trade connections with neighboring provinces.
The region developed from a long tradition of craftsmanship visible today in woodwork, leather goods, and traditional textiles. Local festivals follow the agricultural calendar and feature dances, music, and costumes combining elements from pre-Columbian and European times.
The provincial capital and larger towns connect by intercity buses from major Ecuadorian cities, while smaller villages often require unpaved roads. Due to the altitude, slow acclimatization is advisable, especially for travelers from lower regions.
The active Tungurahua volcano sits at the western edge and occasionally sends ash clouds drifting over surrounding valleys. Residents have evacuation plans and shelters in several communities that can be reached quickly when needed.
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