Runa Tupari

Ecuador is known for its geographical and cultural diversity. Within relatively short distances and times, the visitor may travel from the beaches of the Pacific Coast to the magnificent landscape of the Andes, the exuberance of the Amazonian jungle and the unique adventure of the Galapagos Islands.

The variety of ethnic groups such as kichwas, shuar, ashuar, huorani, cofanes and the Afro-Ecuadorians illustrate the cultural diversity of Ecuador.

Without a doubt, Ecuador is a country that invites tourism. Its abundance of natural and cultural wealth ensures a unique experience for all visitors.

Among the multiple tourism opportunities offered by Ecuador, Imbabura - a province located 2 hours drive north from the capital - holds a very special status. Known for its spectacular landscape and beautiful lakes that give Imbabura the name of the Blue Lakes Province, this gorgeous region is home to a diversity of cultures and ecological zones.

COTACACHI - ECOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL TREASURE OF THE ANDES

In addition to the well-known market town of Otavalo, there is the town of Cotacachi and surrounding indigenous communities. Cotacachi, in the foothills of the Cotacachi volcano, is a small city with much to offer. Cotacachi is well known for its leather industry, indigenous crafts, music and dancing, together with its ancestral traditions, year-round festivities and local rituals. You may also enjoy the excellence of the regional cuisine and experience the diversity of climates when you travel from the Cotacachi Volcano at 4,939 metres above sea level to the subtropical region of Intag at 1,200 metres above sea level.
Cotacachi is conveniently located 10 minutes north of Otavalo and is easily accessible by bus and taxi.

Cotacachi is privileged with the maintenance and daily practice of great many traditions, most of which can be observed, in particular, in the rural communities where the indigenous music and dancing maintain their magical and ritual significance. The indigenous communities are also known for the manufacture of handicrafts made from assorted materials using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. Agriculture is the main activity in the Cotacachi communities where the social and ceremonial life is built round the agricultural calendar. Cotacachi farmers are keepers of the knowledge and practices inherited from their forebears and as such maintain a great diversity of native crops and medicinal plants, many of which only exist in their farms and home gardens.