Riobamba

Known as the "Sultana of the Andes," Riobamba is a highland city in central Ecuador ringed by volcanoes — Chimborazo, Tungurahua, El Altar, and Carihuairazo — with scenic viewpoints across the surrounding peaks. The centre holds many historic churches and a lively café and restaurant scene. Founded in 1575 near Laguna de Colta, the city was destroyed by an earthquake in 1797 and rebuilt on its current site, making it Ecuador's first planned city. A UNESCO World Heritage site lies within the wider region.

• Population264,048
• Nearest water0.8 km
• Nearest mountain1.9 km
• UNESCO within 50 km1