Cotacachi Magical Town of Ecuador Travel Tips Ecuador

Cotacachi Magical Town of Ecuador

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picture by Sam B.

Cotacachi Magical Town of Ecuador with Patate and Alausí were selected as the first Pueblos Mágicos Magical Towns in Ecuador by the Ministry of Tourism. They fulfilled all 15 requirements to receive this designation. To be a Magical Town, according to this plan, is to have unique symbolic attributes with great opportunity for tourist use. It also means a fresh and different alternative for local and foreign visitors.

This is based on a successful program in Mexico. The Cuicocha lagoon was considered a unique attraction of Cotacachi and the Imbabura Province. Each year, 200,000 people visit it. The town also seeks to highlight the historic center with its religious icons, the Iglesia Matriz and the archaeological remains. Natural attractions and its culture give the canton a unique characteristic above other places. Cotacachi Magical Town of Ecuador

Patate was selected for its Fiesta del Señor del Terremoto (Lord of the Earthquake). There are several legends surrounding this image. One of them says that on February 4, 1797, an earthquake destroyed the old town and 600 people died. At that time, a farmer heard the sound of a bell from the ground and when digging he found a box with the image of Christ and a bell at his feet. The town also features natural landscapes such as the 30 waterfalls, ecological trails, viewpoints and places for bird watching. There is also an archaeological and religious museum. Its gastronomy is a complement. The arepas and the chicha de uva are famous there.

To be a Magical Town, according to this plan, is to have unique symbolic attributes with great opportunity for the tourist use.