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Cayambe Flower Farms
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Industrial site
The flower farms of Cayambe, situated at the base of the majestic Cayambe volcano, are the epicenter of Ecuador's flourishing floriculture export industry. The unique combination of intense equatorial sunlight, high elevation exceeding 2,800 meters, and nutrient-rich volcanic soil produces roses of unrivaled global quality, characterized by exceptionally large buds and thick, durable stems. Ecuador ranks among the world's top three flower exporters, with the Cayambe region playing a pivotal role in the production of high-end cut flowers for the international market. These farms employ thousands of local residents, including a high percentage of women from indigenous communities, making floriculture the most vital private economic driver in the area. Operations take place within massive greenhouses under rigorous quality control, with an increasing shift toward sustainable farming practices and fair-trade certifications. Harvested flowers are transported via specialized cold-chain logistics to Quito's international airport for rapid shipment to major global destinations, including the United States, Europe, and Russia. This industry has transformed Cayambe from a traditional rural area into a sophisticated hub of modern agribusiness.
- Location: Ecuador
- Top sights: Star way - Cascada Bebedero - Buga · Parque de la Madre · Parque La Remonta
- Nearby: Atuntaqui (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 117 | 122 | 151 | 164 | 122 | 71 | 52 | 37 | 50 | 93 | 111 | 107 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Cayambe Flower Farms are large greenhouse facilities in the Cayambe region, growing high-quality roses for the global market. They are a major economic driver and employer in the Ecuadorian highlands.
Visiting
Some farms offer guided tours upon prior reservation, where visitors can see the cultivation and harvest of roses. Otherwise, the greenhouses are clearly visible from the road.
Where to view it
A handy viewpoint is the Panamericana, which runs directly past the farms. From here, the white greenhouses stretch across the hills, with the Cayambe volcano in the background.
Local products
Fresh roses in various colors and varieties are produced on the farms and often sold in the on-site shop. Off-season, other cut flowers such as carnations and lilies are also available.
Active season
The main production period is year-round, with peaks before Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. During these weeks, the greenhouses run at full capacity, exporting thousands of flowers.
Nearby
Visiting the flower farms can be excellently combined with a climb of the Cayambe volcano or a trip to the Otavalo market. The nearby Cayambe-Coca nature reserve is also worth a stop.
Geography
Facts
- Ecuador cultivates over 400 distinct varieties of roses for the global export market.
- Roses from Cayambe can develop stems up to 1.5 meters long due to the specific light conditions.
- Valentine's Day and Mother's Day account for the highest sales volume for the farms.
- The flower industry represents approximately 10% of Ecuador's non-oil exports.
- Many farms implement rainwater harvesting systems for their irrigation needs.
- A single cargo aircraft departing from Quito can carry up to 100 tons of fresh flowers.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Cayambe Flower Farms (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why are the flowers from Cayambe so famous?
Due to the intense solar radiation at the equator, roses of the highest quality grow here.
Can you visit a flower farm?
Yes, many farms around Cayambe offer guided tours.
When is the best time to visit?
All year round, but especially before Valentine's Day or Mother's Day.
What do you learn during a tour?
The entire process from planting and cutting to packaging for the global market.
What else should you try in Cayambe?
The famous 'Bizcochos', a local pastry, often served with cheese.
Cayambe Flower Farms: where is it located?
Cayambe Flower Farms is located in Ecuador.
Cayambe Flower Farms: what is there to see?
Highlights include Star way - Cascada Bebedero - Buga, Parque de la Madre, Parque La Remonta.
Cayambe Flower Farms: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Cayambe Flower Farms: why is it worth visiting?
The flower farms of Cayambe, situated at the base of the majestic Cayambe volcano, are the epicenter of Ecuador's flourishing floriculture export industry.
Explore with Plizio
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Nearby cities
Quito
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Basilica of the Virgin of El Quinche
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Mariscal Sucre Airport
The most modern international airport in Ecuador, located on the Tababela plateau outside Quito.
Cross of Ilaló
A monumental iron cross on the extinct Ilaló volcano, illuminated at night and visible from the Tumbaco and Los Chillos valleys.
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Unasur Building
A futuristic building near the equator, constructed to be the headquarters of the Union of South American Nations.
Cyclist Monument
A stylized sculpture at a busy intersection in Quito, dedicated to eco-friendly transportation.
Atahualpa Olympic Stadium
The traditional sports stadium in the heart of Quito, which witnessed historical triumphs of the Ecuadorian national football team.
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium
This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.
La Mariscal Artisanal Market
A vibrant market in Quito where local artisans sell colorful textiles, jewelry, and traditional souvenirs.
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Antisana Ecological Reserve
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Cayambe
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