The city is famous for its two traditional markets. Historically, a centre of the cattle industry, the local business preferences shaped its markets too. All the best cattle in the region are sold and bought through Riobamba. This doesn’t mean a lot for you if you’re a tourist, however, seeing a real cattle market is a must. There are two important markets in Riobamba: Mercado de Animales or the animal market and San Alfonso.
A sight from a traditional Ecuadorian Market. These are usually full of fine, colourful fabrics of local make. /pic by goofy girl/
Another thing to look for is textiles, handicrafts, leather goods and local souvenirs. If you’re looking for memorabilia, your best bet is one of the Riobamba markets. The souvenir shops won’t probably give you the right feeling. The problem is that many shops are tailored to the tourism industry, hence the simplicity and mass-production taste of the items. You want something unique because Ecuador is a unique place. So little has changed there during the last centuries. It is like an exciting history book and you can live it now and there.