Every June, the small Andean town of Zumbahua in Cotopaxi Province bursts with vibrant energy for the Fiesta de San Juan. This celebration captures the raw spirit of indigenous culture set against the dramatic backdrop of Ecuador’s highlands. On the eve of June 24th, locals and visitors gather in the chilly, crisp air at roughly 3,500 meters above sea level, where the pulse of tradition echoes along streets winding through high-altitude fields and volcanic foothills.

Navigating Zumbahua during the fiesta is an adventure in itself. The town’s surrounding terrain challenges hikers with a mix of steep, grassy slopes and rugged paths that cling to the edge of expansive páramo landscapes. Expect to cover roughly 10 kilometers of rolling terrain if you explore the hills just outside the town, with elevation changes climbing up to 400 meters. The ground often feels alive beneath your boots—soft moss patches and hardy grasses that have weathered Andean winds pushing fiercely around you.

The festival’s highlight is the evening bonfire and traditional dances, but the lead-up offers vibrant markets selling handwoven textiles, local cheeses, and fresh high-altitude potatoes. Cultural exchanges happen organically here — elders recount local legends while children dash through the crowd, their laughter merging with the crackling fire and music played on panpipes and drums.

Planning your visit requires practical preparation. The high altitude demands acclimatization, so spend at least one day in nearby Latacunga or Quito to adjust. Bring layered clothing suitable for cold mountain nights contrasting with strong daytime sun. Footwear should be sturdy and waterproof; uneven trails can turn slippery if mist rolls in from the nearby volcanoes. Hydration is crucial—carry at least 2 liters of water, and consider electrolyte supplements due to the dry Andean air.

Timing matters: arrive in late afternoon to feel the festival’s anticipation build as twilight shades shift across the mountains. After dark, the bonfire flames seem to wrestle with the cold air, illuminating joyful dancers who honor both St. John and the earth’s turning seasons.

In Zumbahua, nature is a participant— the wind dares you onward; the ground balances between softness and firmness, requiring respect. The landscape insists on keen awareness, rewarding those who engage with it practically and openly. Fiesta de San Juan is less about conquering this mountain town than moving with its rhythm—an encounter with place and people that challenges and refreshes.

For hikers and cultural travelers alike, this June gathering offers an experience grounded in tradition but alive with opportunity: the chance to walk, watch, and live a moment perched where earth, fire, and spirit meet.