Cayambe travel guide

Cayambe, on the eastern (right-hand) branch of the Panamericana, 25 km northeast of Guayllabamba, is dominated by the snow-capped volcano of the same name. The surrounding countryside consists of a few remaining dairy farms and a great many flower plantations. Roses and carnations are grown for export and have turned Cayambe into a boom town. As a result rural property values have soared, the use of agro-chemicals is doing much environmental damage, and the inflow of itinerant labourers has led to a deterioration of public safety. The area is noted for its bizcochos, which are small shortbread-type biscuits served with queso de hoja, tasty string cheese. Market day is Sunday, held at a plaza on Calle Rocafuerte, three blocks up from the main plaza.