Discover Zaruma

Zaruma brings together a distinctive culinary theme and cultural history. Tigrillo is one of the town’s most representative dishes; other highlights include the petroglyphs of Zaruma and the historical role of the nearby Sexmo and Vizcaya mines. These topics appeal to different interests: regional cuisine, rock carvings, and a clearly defined chapter of colonial mining history. If you choose a destination based on what interests you there, you can consider these aspects as distinct points of focus.

Tigrillo: Ingredients and Ways of Serving

Tigrillo is made with green plantain, local eggs, queso amasado, salt, oil, paiteña onion, and chopped cilantro. The dish provides a specific culinary point of interest in Zaruma. As well as the recipe, the way it is served is important when considering the meal.

Tigrillo is eaten on its own or with a cup of black coffee. Occasionally, it is served with beef, pork, or chicken, or with seafood. When planning a meal, you can distinguish between the dish on its own, having it with coffee, and the occasional versions with meat or seafood. If you are discussing food preferences with your fellow travelers, you can consider the dish and what it is served with as two separate points.

Rock Carvings and Mining History

The cultural topics have different geographical contexts: the petroglyphs of Zaruma are in the town, while the mines in Sexmo and Vizcaya are near Zaruma. The petroglyphs are rock carvings considered an artistic expression of the ancestors. This presents a visual, artistic perspective alongside the history of mining.

UNESCO describes the mines in Sexmo and Vizcaya, near Zaruma, as the basis for Zaruma becoming a center for Spanish America and the Royal Audiencia of Quito during the first production cycle from 1575 to 1625, driving the economy of colonial Andean society. This period refers to a specific historical phase. Zaruma’s UNESCO proposal is on the Tentative List; this does not mean it is inscribed as a World Heritage Site.

The two cultural topics emphasize different aspects: the petroglyphs concern artistic expression, while the mining history concerns the economic and historical significance of a specific production period. When deciding on your trip, you can compare these perspectives with the culinary theme. If you are looking for a vacation rental in Zaruma, considering whether you are more interested in regional cuisine, rock carvings, or the history of the nearby mines can help you decide what kind of trip you want. When choosing a vacation rental, you can also consider the locations: the petroglyphs are in Zaruma, while the mines in Sexmo and Vizcaya are near the town.

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Go to the main travel overview: El Oro.