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Town · Otavalo, Imbabura
Cotacachi
Town at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano, 15 km from Otavalo, known for the leather shops on rua 10 de Agosto selling bags, jackets, belts and boots, and for its quiet center with the iglesia matriz.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cotacachi
Cotacachi is about 15 km north of Otavalo, at the foot of the volcano of the same name, at around 2,400 meters altitude. It is a small, quiet town with straight streets and low houses, known throughout Ecuador for its leatherwork.
Rua 10 de Agosto, the town’s main shopping street, has dozens of leather shops side by side selling bags, wallets, belts, jackets, coats, boots, saddles and crafts, many with their own workshops. Prices are usually negotiable, and some shops make custom pieces.
The center has the main square with the Iglesia de la Matriz and Parque San Francisco, as well as restaurants serving typical dishes such as carnes coloradas—pork seasoned with urucum—served with mote and potatoes. The town is a departure point for Laguna de Cuicocha, 12 km away.
Cotacachi is also sought after by foreigners who live there, attracted by the mild climate.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours.
Best time
Morning or early afternoon on weekdays. Many shops close earlier on Sundays.
How to get there
It's about 15 km from Otavalo, with frequent buses from the Otavalo terminal (about 25 minutes) or by taxi.
Tip
Combine Cotacachi with Cuicocha: go to the lagoon in the morning and have lunch of annatto-seasoned meats (carnes coloradas) in town. Compare the shops on 10 de Agosto before buying.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cotacachi
What to buy in Cotacachi?
Leather goods: bags, wallets, belts, jackets and boots, in the shops on 10 de Agosto street.
Is it far from Otavalo?
About 15 km, a 25-minute bus ride.
What to eat in Cotacachi?
Carnes coloradas — pork seasoned with annatto — served with mote (hominy), potato and avocado.