Seven kilometres from Ibarra is the village of La Esperanza, the best starting point for climbing the daunting Volcan Imbabura [4,609 m or 15,360 ft] and the slightly less demanding Loma Cubilche [3,836 m or 12,785 ft]. From La Esperanza, Bolivar gathered his troops before routing the Spanish under General Agualongo in Ibarra. You may combine this with a walk in Zuleta, where you can take scenic hikes, buy embroideries typical of the community, or go on a bike or horseback ride.
