Happy TravellerWelcome to San Gabriel, a magical town nestled in the Andes of Carchi Province, Ecuador. With an elevation of 2,878 metres (9,442 ft) above sea level, San Gabriel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The city had a population of 14,487 in the 2010 census and the parish had a population of 21,096 in the same year. San Gabriel was designated a Pueblo Mágico (magical town) by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) in 2019, making it one of the country’s five original Pueblos Mágicos.
San Gabriel is a destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the city’s colonial architecture, including the San Gabriel Church, which dates back to the 18th century. The church is a beautiful example of colonial Baroque architecture and is a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.
For nature lovers, San Gabriel offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, and mountain biking. The surrounding mountains and valleys are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the Andean condor, one of the largest birds in the world. Visitors can also explore the nearby El Angel Ecological Reserve, which is home to a unique ecosystem of high-altitude páramo grasslands.
Foodies will love San Gabriel’s local cuisine, which is a delicious blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. Some of the must-try dishes include locro de papas, a hearty potato soup, and churrasco, a grilled beef dish served with rice, beans, and plantains. Visitors can also sample the local cheese, which is made from the milk of the region’s dairy cows.
San Gabriel is also home to some notable people, including Olavo Yépez, a chess master who was born in the city in 1937 and passed away in 2021.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, San Gabriel has something to offer everyone. Come and discover the magic of this enchanting town in the heart of the Andes.
