Tulcán is the northernmost city in Ecuador, set in the Andean highlands just south of the border crossing at Rumichaca International Bridge. Often seen as a gateway between Ecuador and Colombia, it is best known for the remarkable José María Azael Franco Municipal Cemetery, where hundreds of carefully sculpted cypress trees form living arches, animals, and geometric figures. Sitting at an elevation of nearly 3,000 meters, Tulcán has a cool mountain climate and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a pleasant first stop for travelers beginning a journey through Ecuador.
We stayed in Tulcán for one night at the beginning of our journey through Ecuador. After crossing the border at Rumichaca, we spent the afternoon visiting the cemetery, taking time to admire its sculpted gardens before wandering through the town on a short walk. It was a quiet introduction to the country, with an easy pace that let us settle into the rhythm of the trip before continuing south.
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