Things To Do
in Cotacachi
Cotacachi sits high in the Ecuadorian Andes near the Cotacachi volcano and the spectacular Cuicocha crater lake. The town is famed for its leather markets and handcrafts, weaving a friendly, slow-paced vibe with practical workshop spaces. Nestled among cloud forests and rolling hills, Cotacachi serves as a gateway to Otavalo, the nearby reserves, and striking highland scenery.
Visitors come for artisanal shopping, scenic hikes, and a welcoming community feel that makes it easy to linger a little longer.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cotacachi, where the stunning landscape of the Andes welcomes you. Spend the morning settling into your accommodations and adjusting to the altitude. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the town to soak in the vibrant culture and local artisan shops.
After lunch, explore the town further by visiting the Plaza Central, where you can admire local architecture and engage with friendly locals. Don’t miss the artisan markets, filled with handmade leather goods and textiles. Consider sipping on a freshly brewed cup of Ecuadorian coffee while basking in the afternoon sun.
As the day winds down, dine at a quaint local restaurant, savoring traditional Ecuadorian dishes. Experience the lively atmosphere as you enjoy your meal accompanied by folk music. Cap off your evening with a walk under the stars, enjoying the serenity of small-town life.
Set out early to Cuicocha Lagoon for a breathtaking hike around the crater lake. The tranquil waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains provide a perfect backdrop for nature enthusiasts. Take your time photographing the unique flora and fauna found along the trails.
After hiking, have lunch at a local eatery in the nearby village of Quiroga, sampling local fish dishes. Post-lunch, consider joining a boat ride on the lagoon to gain a different perspective of the beautiful landscape. Allow yourself to immerse in the peaceful ambiance of this natural wonder.
Return to Cotacachi in the evening and unwind at a local café, relishing a slice of traditional Ecuadorian cake. Engage in conversations with fellow travelers and locals, sharing experiences from the day. Enjoy the gentle evening breeze as you appreciate the beauty of Cotacachi at sundown.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧥Leather goods (belt or wallet) | $15-60 |
| 🚍Local transport (bus/taxi short ride) | $1-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich leather crafts and unique shopping
- Gateway to Cuicocha and Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve
- Cool, comfortable highland climate and scenic views
- Friendly locals and smaller crowds than Otavalo
- Limited nightlife and nocturnal entertainment
- Seasonal tourism fluctuations
- Altitude can cause mild symptoms for some visitors
- Longer travel times to Quito for international flights
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Cotacachi
Visit one of these nice places.
Caldera rims offer dramatic perspectives, especially at sunrise or sunset; great for landscape and wildlife shots.
Colorful colonial church and cobblestone square ideal for architectural and street photography.
Vibrant textiles, leather goods, and daily market life with rich colors and textures.
Lush cloud forests and biodiversity provide photography of flora, birds, and scenic panoramas.
Food in Cotacachi
Cotacachi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty potato and cheese soup, often served with avocado and crusty bread.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted pork with crispy skin, typically served with llapingachos and mote or plantains.
Smashed potato patties fried until crisp, usually served with cheese, sausages, and peanut sauce.
Fried guinea pig, a regional delicacy available in some traditional restaurants.
A variation featuring cheese and herbs; common in mountain-area eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and portable bites; a great place to observe daily life.
World-famous market nearby for textiles, crafts, and street snacks.
Roasted corn, empanadas, and mote stalls along market streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use Spanish greetings like Hola or Buenos días; a handshake is common, with a hug among friends.
Be polite and smile when negotiating; ask prices in Spanish and thank sellers.
Respect indigenous customs and ask before photographing people or ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Cotacachi
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave about 5–10% if service is not included; tip guides and drivers modestly.
US dollars are widely accepted; many places also accept credit cards; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear days, cooler temperatures, and good visibility for hikes and viewpoints. Evenings are chilly.
Frequent rain showers; lush greenery and misty mornings create atmospheric photos. Pack a lightweight rain jacket.
Transition periods with mixed sun and rain; fewer crowds and flexible planning.
Cotacachi at Night
Hiking in Cotacachi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop around the crater with multiple viewpoints and lake scenery.
A challenging hike to the summit with expansive views of the valley and lakes.
Airports
How to reach Cotacachi by plane.
Quito’s main international gateway; from there, a 2.5–3 hour drive to Cotacachi via highway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo residents and Indigenous Quechua-speaking communities contribute to the region’s cultural richness and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games in parks.
Mountain and road cycling common in the highlands; challenging routes around the volcano and valleys.
Trails around Cuicocha and Cotacachi-Cayapas are popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cotacachi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetarian options; many soups and salads are meat-free, and you can request cheese, bean, or avocado toppings. Seek fruit bowls and veggie empanadas at markets; avoid meat stock unless specified.