Life is a Carnival | Los Andes Ecuador
“La Vida es un Carnaval!” lyrics from the legendary singer Celia Cruz summarizes the festive vibe during the month of February in Ecuador. Like many countries around the world with dominant Catholic population observe a form of Carnival, Ecuador is no different where Carnival is a blend of a Catholic holiday with Andean traditions. The idea is to express as much craziness before behaving yourself during the reflective period of Lent (40 days before Easter) called Cuaresma in Ecuador.
Party Time
Carnival typically lasts between 5 to 8 days, offers travelers the ability to experience at many local communities colorful and festive parades full of music, dancing and floats. And because the season is all about living it up, drinking is expected. And as you go from town to town you will most likely be offered Chicha de Jora, a fermented drink made from corn, or the infamous white liquor called Pajaro Azul or Blue Bird that is only available in Guaranda.
Ambato / Guaranda
During this jolly period, Ambato and Guaranda offer travelers unique ceremonies. Ambato gets decked up with lights and really comes to life during this period with its famous festival of Fruits and Flowers. Be on the look-out, as you will most likely see a huge mural displayed over the doors of the main cathedral made entirely of flowers, fruit and bread. In Guaranda which is located in the province of Bolivar in the central highlands of Ecuador, the festivities focus on celebrating the mountain cultures of the Quichua. People from surrounding communities come to participate each wearing a distinctive style of dress and dance the day away in parades. Aside from the parades, the city of Guaranda becomes a hot bed for parties with lots of music, dancing, costumes and drinking!
Rabble Rousing
Lastly but not least because Carnival is about having fun, many local communities part-take in all out soak feast. Most of the rabble rousing is good fun and harmless, but be prepared for lots of Espuma or Carioca, colored foam similar to shaving cream, or water to be thrown at you. Yes! It sounds odd but be forewarned that if traveling during this time you will mostly likely be the target for children called diablitos (little devils) who roam the street ready to soak unsuspected victims. And tourists who stick out like a sore thumb are key targets to get soaked. So be prepared and make sure your cameras have protective gear and maybe even bring an umbrella to be used as a shield.
If you are adventurous and don’t mind getting wet, Carnival in February is a perfect time to visit Ecuador. Not only will you truly get to immerse yourself in the Ecuadorian culture, but experience festivities that will make you dance, sing and marvel at the cultural expression.
If you are visiting Quito, Ecuador then let Los Andes Ecuador become your preferred accommodation partner. Los Andes is Quito's best kept secret. Los Andes is not a hotel but a private 17th century Spanish colonial home that offers private suites and rooms. Even though it's not a hotel the service is top notch where the staff goes above and beyond to make sure your stay is enjoyable and comfortable. See what others have said about Los Andes:
"Staying at Los Andes is a wonderful experience. The staff is very friendly and great quality of service. Rooms are excellent. Every place you like to visit is at a walking distance. I recommend everybody to stay at Los Andes and enjoy a great vacation in Quito, Ecuador. I am very happy."
--James Randt
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