Cotacachi (city) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cotacachi
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Town
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Calle Bolívar in Cotacachi
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 Cotacachi
Location in Ecuador
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| Country |  Ecuador |
| Province | Imbabura |
| Canton | Cotacachi Canton |
| Area | |
| • Town | 5.45 km2 (2.10 sq mi) |
| Population
(2022 census)
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| • Town | 10,526 |
| • Density | 1,931.4/km2 (5,002/sq mi) |
Cotacachi is a town in Ecuador, a country in South America. It's the main town of Cotacachi Canton in the Imbabura Province. Cotacachi is high up in the mountains, about 2,418 meters (7,933 feet) above sea level. In 2022, about 10,526 people lived there.
Cotacachi is known as an artisan city. It is very famous for its beautiful leather goods and other handmade crafts. People in Cotacachi also enjoy special local foods. These include carne colorada, which is pork cooked in a red sauce. Another favorite is queso de hoja, a soft cheese wrapped in a plant leaf.
The city of Cotacachi has received a special award from UNESCO. This award recognizes that the city has successfully ended illiteracy, meaning almost everyone can read and write. In 2000, the entire Cotacachi canton was named the first ecological county in South America. This means it's a special place that protects nature.
In 2019, Cotacachi was chosen as a Pueblo Mágico (magical town). This special title was given by Ecuador's Ministry of Tourism. Cotacachi was one of the first five towns in the country to receive this honor.
Contents
Where is Cotacachi Located?
The city of Cotacachi is about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of Otavalo. Otavalo is another city known for its artisans. Cotacachi is also about 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) west of the Panamerican Highway (Route 35).
Cotacachi sits in a valley between two large volcanoes. These are the Imbabura volcano and the Cotacachi volcano. There are two main ways to enter the city from the Panamerican Highway. One entrance leads right to the city's main square. The other leads to a famous street called Calle 10 de Agosto, also known as Leather Street.
Who Lives in Cotacachi?
Cotacachi and the areas around it have many indigenous people. These are the native people who have lived in this land for a very long time. In fact, Cotacachi has one of the highest numbers of indigenous people in Ecuador.
The city is also close to bigger cities like Ibarra and Quito. It is also near the coastal area of Esmeraldas. Because of this, many different groups of people live here. Many mestizo people, who have mixed European and indigenous backgrounds, come from Quito. Also, many Afro-Ecuadorians, who have African heritage, come from Esmeraldas.
In recent years, more people from other countries have moved to Cotacachi. Many foreign retirees, who are older people no longer working, have chosen to live here. A recent count showed that over 500 foreign residents live in the area.
What is the Climate Like?
The weather in Cotacachi is mild and pleasant all year round. The city is in a valley between mountains, which keeps the temperatures steady. During the day, temperatures are usually between 21 and 27 degrees Celsius (70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit). At night, it gets cooler, usually between 10 and 16 degrees Celsius (50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit).
Why is Leather Important in Cotacachi?
Cotacachi is known as the "Leather Capital of Ecuador." There are more than 50 different shops in the city that make leather goods by hand. Many of the leather products sold in other parts of Ecuador are actually made right here in Cotacachi.
What is Inti Raymi?
Every year in late June, Cotacachi celebrates a big festival. It is called the Fiesta of San Juan, San Pedro, and San Pablo. It is also known as Inti Raymi, which means "Sun Festival" in the Kichwa language.
During this festival, many different ceremonies take place. The main event is called "taking of the plaza." During this event, groups of dancers from different communities gather. They dance around the biggest town square, where the Municipality building and the town Cathedral are located.
Children, men, and women have different days to perform their dances. It's a time for communities to come together and celebrate their traditions. Sometimes, the men's day can get very energetic as different groups meet. The festival is a way to remember old rivalries in a symbolic way.
Some male dancers wear special black leather hats during the ceremonies and parades. These San Juan hats have very large, flat brims that extend over their shoulders. The top part of the hat is tall, square, and pointed, with many symbols. These hats are also designed to offer some protection during the lively celebrations. In recent years, the festival has become much safer for everyone. This is because the arrival of dancers from different communities is carefully planned and watched.
Why do Tourists Visit Cotacachi?
Cotacachi is a popular place for tourists. One reason is its closeness to Otavalo, which is famous for its large indigenous market.
Another big attraction is Cuicocha, also known as Guinea Pig Lake. This is the second most famous crater lake in Ecuador. It's only about 10 minutes away from Cotacachi by taxi. Cuicocha is a great spot for hikers who enjoy walking around the lake. Small boats also take visitors on rides across the lake.
See also
In Spanish: Cotacachi para niños
