Advance booking is recommended. A 2-hour train ride Ibarra – Salinas – Ibarra on a type of bus converted to run on the railway line. With seven tunnels and tall bridges across steep canyons, the la Libertad Train travels from Ibarra to Salinas. In Salinas you’ll discover colorful murals commemorating the history and culture of Afro-ecuadorian people. Bring a light jacket, walking shoes, hat, sunscreen (SPF 70 at least), sunglasses, camera, cash and insect repellent. Altitude ranges from 1,600 to 2,200 meters above sea level. The temperature ranges from 14° to 25°C. A guarded parking area is available at Ibarra Station. Ibarra is 126 km north from Quito - 2½-3 hour’s drive. In Otavalo there are paid parking lots nearby the railway station. Otavalo is 90 km north from Quito –a 2-2½ hours’ drive.