Ecuador is so much more than just the bustling capital city of Quito. That’s why when I was asked if I’d like to go and check out the city of Cotacachi, I responded with a resounding “heck yea!”. Cotacachi is located about 2 hours from Quito in the Cotacachi Canton in the Imbabura Province in between the Imbabura and Cotacachi volcanoes. The city sits at an altitude of almost 8000 feet (2419 meters) above sea level in the inter-Andean valley. Given the town’s proximity to the equator, it has a year round temperature between 70 and 80 degrees.
I was lucky enough to travel there by car but there is a bus that travels directly from Quito to Cotacachi for the amazingly low price of $2.00 USD. The town itself is very scenic. The buildings are colorful and the streets are very clean. There many local restaurants and cafes where you can eat, hang out with friends, or just relax and take in the scenery. You also can view many of Ecuadors famous volcanoes from within the town, including Volcan Cotacachi.
Cotacachi has a population of about 9000, with 45 indigenous communities making up the surrounding area. In fact, Cotacachi and the surrounding communities have one of the highest concentrations of indigenous people in the entire country of Ecuador. You’ll often hear people speaking Spanish, as well as, their native language. The locals are very spiritual and cherish their traditions. You will see many of the locals dressing in colorful traditional clothing. While there, I was also told that you shamans perform rituals for healing on a daily basis. I found the locals to be EXTREMELY polite, welcoming, and helpful as I stopped them and asked for directions and information.
Cotacachi has now also become a prime location for expats looking to relocate to a safe, inexpensive town with great weather and small town vibe. I noticed a considerable amount of foreigners walking about and relaxing in the many coffee and pastry shops throughout the town. Given the low cost of living, the strong sense of community, and great climate, I can certainly see why many people come here.
Leather
Cotacachi is an Artesenal town and known for it’s leather goods. There are over 50 artisanal leather shops lining the streets, selling leather goods that range from bags, shoes, wallets, jackets and more. Many of the leather goods found in Ecuador are actually produced in Cotacachi.
The prices for all these items are 50% to 75% less than what you would pay in the U.S. while not sacrificing quality one bit I, of course, took this opportunity to search for a new weekender bag, something I’d been putting off for some time.
I ultimately decided to stay away from the typical brown and black and went with this red leather beauty. It cost me $85 USD cash or $90 USD if you pay by card. I’m 100% certain this bag would have retailed for 3 – 4 times this much back in the states.
Things To Do
Even though Cotacachi is a small town with a relaxed pace, there are many things to do in the town and in the surround areas as well. Apparently, at least one parade or festival takes place at minimum every month. In fact, one of the taxi drivers told me I’d just missed a carnival in one of the neighboring towns. There is also plenty of hiking as well as live music events, spas, yoga, food fairs, dances, horse processionals, art classes and much more.
On Saturdays, you can take the 30 minute bus ride from Cotacachi to Otavalo. Otavalo boasts the largest open-air indigenous market in South America. Put your negotiating skills to the test and walk away with hats and scarves for as low as $2 each or sweaters for $8. The bus ride here from Cotacachi will cost you 35 cents, while a taxi will cost $5 USD. It’s well worth the trip!
If you love nature, there are also several natural attractions as well. I had a chance to visit Laguna Cuicocha (Lake of Guinea Pigs in English), which was absolutely beautiful. This 2 mile (3 km) wide lake sits at the foot of Volcano Cotacachi. You can read more about my experience here.
You can also visit Laguna San Pablo. At 2.4 miles wide (4 km), it’s the largest lake in Ecuador. During the annual Fiesta del Yamor (held in September) there are boat races on the lake along with a swim competition. The water gets down to 40 – 50 degrees so the swimmers have to grease their bodies to withstand the temperatures.
Laguna Cuicocha
You can also visit the Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve, where you can hike to the summit of Cotacachi Volcano, which lies at 16,200 feet (4,935m). This area hasn’t undergone extensive farming and replanting so there are a number of plant and animal species that can be found within the confines of the Reserve, many that are protected. You can also consider visiting the Cayapa Indians who live in the reserve.
The Peguche waterfall is a 50 ft (18 m) waterfall located in the Indigenous village of Peguche. Originating at the Imbabura volcano, the waterfall is about an hour and a half from Cotacachi. It’s considered an indigenous ceremonial site due to the purification baths held there days prior to the Inti Raymi celebration on June 21st.
All in all, I found Cotacachi to be a very small town with a lot to offer. It’s overflowing with culture and there are many things to do, including plenty of natural attractions. If you make it to Ecuador, I’d recommend stopping by this town and taking in some true culture and change of pace.
Iglesia Matriz
Geron is an avid traveler, entreprenuer and mens style aficionado. He love’s mac and cheese, getting discounts, his momma, and a good whiskey, not particularly in that order. It’s alleged he lives in Miami, but no one really knows anymore.
Follow him on instagram at @geronp
