Ecuador travel blog
Ecuador Travel Blog
Read our articles about travel in Ecuador.
Festival of Flowers and Fruits Ambato 2023
The city of Ambato, known as the land of flowers and fruits, is the scene for a magical and colorful celebration that takes place every year in late February or early March, during the carnival festivities. It is one of the most important and popular events in the country, known as the Flower and Fruit Festival, that in 2009 was declared as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Ecuador. Programa Oficial de eventos coloridos por la Fiesta de las Flores y las Frutas 2023, en Ambato que se celebrará durante febrero y marzo, meses del feriado de carnaval.
Travel Ecuador
Ecuador is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of experiences, from exploring the Andes mountains, to visiting the Amazon rainforest, to relaxing on the beaches of the Pacific coast. Some of the main attractions in Ecuador include: The Galápagos Islands: This group of islands is located about 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador and is known for its diverse and unique wildlife. Visitors can take a cruise or a land-based tour to explore the islands and see animals such as giant tortoises, sea lions, and iguanas. Quito: The capital city of Ecuador is located in the Andes mountains and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit landmarks such as the Basilica del Voto Nacional and the Presidential Palace. The Amazon rainforest: Ecuador has a large section of the Amazon rainforest located in the eastern part of the country. Visitors can take tours to explore the rainforest, see wildlife and learn about the indigenous people living in the area. Otavalo: This town is located in the Andes mountains and is known for its indigenous market where visitors can buy textiles, jewelry, and other crafts. Cuenca: This charming colonial city is known for its well-preserved architecture and is another UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the historic center and visit landmarks such as the Catedral Nueva and the Parque de la Madre. Ecuador is also popular for adventure activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking and paragliding, among others.
National Holidays Ecuador 2023, 2024, 2025
CALENDARIO DE FERIADOS NACIONALES 2023 Año Nuevo Domingo 01 de enero se traslada al lunes 2 de enero Carnaval Lunes 20 y martes 21 de febrero Viernes Santo Viernes 07 de abril Día del Trabajo Lunes 01 de mayo Batalla del Pichincha Miércoles 24 de mayo se traslada al viernes 26 de mayo Primer Grito de Independencia Jueves 10 de agosto se traslada al viernes 11 de agosto Independencia de Guayaquil Lunes 09 de octubre Día de Difuntos Jueves 02 de noviembre Independencia de Cuenca Viernes 03 de noviembre Navidad Lunes 25 de diciembre CALENDARIO DE FERIADOS NACIONALES 2024 Año Nuevo Lunes 01 de enero Carnaval Lunes 12 y martes 13 de febrero Viernes Santo Viernes 29 de marzo Día del Trabajo Miércoles 01 de mayo se traslada al viernes 03 de mayo Batalla del Pichincha Viernes 24 de mayo Primer Grito de Independencia Sábado 10 de agosto se traslada al viernes 09 de agosto Independencia de Guayaquil Miércoles 09 de octubre se traslada al viernes 11 de octubre Día de Difuntos Sábado 02 de noviembre se traslada al viernes 01 de noviembre Independencia de Cuenca Domingo 03 noviembre se traslada al lunes 04 de noviembre Navidad Miércoles 25 de diciembre CALENDARIO DE FERIADOS NACIONALES 2025 Año Nuevo Miércoles 01 de enero Carnaval Lunes 03 y martes 04 de marzo Viernes Santo Viernes 18 de abril Día del Trabajo Jueves 01 de mayo se traslada al viernes 02 de mayo Batalla del Pichincha Sábado 24 de mayo se traslada al viernes 23 de mayo Primer Grito de Independencia Domingo 10 de agosto se traslada al lunes 11 de agosto Independencia de Guayaquil Jueves 09 de octubre se traslada al viernes 10 de octubre Día de Difuntos Domingo 02 se traslada al martes 04 de noviembre Independencia de Cuenca Lunes 03 de noviembre Navidad Jueves 25 de diciembre
Entur - Fonatur 2022
The 2nd edition of the National Meeting of Internal Tourism ENTUR 2022, held from September 5 in Riobamba, Chimborazo, was the stage to highlight the resilience of the sector and to learn about the strategies proposed and executed for the recovery and reactivation of the industry , showing significant progress. The event organized by the Prefecture of Chimborazo in coordination with the Ministry of Tourism, the private company and the academy, was carried out with several activities, with the presence of the head of Tourism, Niels Olsen. One of them was the National Tourism Forum (FONATUR), where recognition was given to 21 organizations that, from July 2021 to August 2022, have worked to reactivate, create and reinvent spaces, sources of employment and the improvement of the tourism industry. Ecuadorian. One of them was Ismar Kourroski, general director of the Oro Verde Hotels chain, who expressed his interest in continuing to invest in Ecuador and his satisfaction at being part of the national tourism sector. For her part, Gabriela Guayasamín, representing the Association of Tourism Wholesalers, Asomatur, explained that the pandemic was a challenge that could be faced with joint work and the creation of innovative products to reinvent the sector. “We are companies that want to work for the progress of the country, within the guaranteed formality. In this space, a discussion was also held where the panelists shared their experiences in the reactivation of the industry. Minister Olsen recorded that almost a year earlier, in that same space, the work expectations for tourism were explained, and today it is already possible to account for the results obtained. “To reactivate ourselves, we planned a comprehensive strategy, accompanied by vision, will and cooperation. All uses to pitch in! And that was what happened," he said, mentioning among the achievements the massive vaccination of members of the tourism sector, an important step that adds to the recovery of air connectivity and passenger arrivals, indicating that, for example we have recovered 95% of the arrivals of Americans that we had before the pandemic. Another of the actions that will continue to consolidate this recovery will take place on September 16, the date scheduled for the signing of the open skies agreement with the United States. While on September 27, on the occasion of World Tourism Day, the official launch of the Nomadic Visa will take place, as well as other actions that this state portfolio has been carrying out. Likewise, mention the financial relief actions for the industry with facilities for the refinancing of debts with the SRI and the IESS, as well as the consolidation of debts with the CFN and access to credits in favorable conditions with BanEcuador. He also explained that the promotion of the Ecuador destination has been developed with the support of President Guillermo Lasso who, prioritizing the sector, ordered the exhibition of more than 47 million dollars to promote the country between 2022 and 2025, which has been done in this year with the presence in more than 10 international tourism events, and the planning of 30 more actions on a national and international scale. On the other hand, he announced that the national campaign will be carried out soon and that members of the sector interested in participating in multiple events scheduled internationally will be able to register on the page https://ecuador.travel/es/. The prefect of Chimborazo, Juan Pablo Cruz, highlighted the province has been part of several promotional actions that are marked in the budget assigned by the National Government. "Where there is tourism, the indicator of poverty and unsatisfied needs goes down, because the authorities understand that in those places they have to invest in infrastructure to improve the indicators of visits and tourist spending," he said. ENTUR also had other activities such as Congretur, from September 5 to 7, where the tourism reality of the country and the region was discussed. The Festival of the Andes was also held, with an important stage to promote local and national artists, and the ECUADOR FEST Tourism and Gastronomic Fair, where destinations and innovative enterprises were exhibited. This last event was attended by 400 entrepreneurs from the 24 provinces to expose their offer of tourism products to the general public. One of them was Carlos Vera Zambrano, a native of Chone, province of Manabí, who offers experiential experiences with the artisanal elaboration of his products derived from cocoa and coffee, and who was enthusiastic about exhibiting his work in this tourist event. The National Government promotes activities with a vocation for working together for tourism and that promotes dialogue to generate strategies that support the economic recovery and reactivation of the country.
The Latas Waterfalls in Misahualli
Las Latas Waterfall is located 12 km from Puerto Misahuallí, on the left side of the road. At the moment of entering the place, you will find a large parking lot, where you can rent rubber boots, in case you do not have them or you intend to use them, you should also note that the access and full route to the last waterfall is found in perfect conditions and the maintenance is constant. Along the way we can admire and enjoy 3 waterfalls, a variety of flora such as ceibo, chontaduro, arrayán, guarango, vanilla orchid, chiriguayusa, laurel, yagual, olive, yellow cinnamon, cocoa, platanillos, straw shawl, guadúa, besides finding marine fossils. After canceling a value of $ 1.50 per person to access the route, you will have access to the first drop of water, which also gives us a space to swim and refresh the heat of the Amazon rainforest offers. The route to reach the last waterfall could last between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how long we take to enjoy the other wonders it offers and also the physical state that we maintain. After traveling 5-7 minutes from the waterfall waterfall, you will find a natural slide that has been formed over the years with the force of nature. National and foreign tourists enjoy this magical place, here you can rest a moment and slide down the natural slide and live an extreme experience. Continuing our journey along a very well marked path along the riverbed, the walk takes place on a muddy trail, with very attractive river crossings. and truly exciting. In this tour if you have any luck you will have the opportunity to listen to the songs of different birds, see some species of butterflies that fly throughout the tour, and not to mention all the exuberant flora that surrounds and characterizes the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest. The route and the effort that you will dedicate to reach the last waterfall will be rewarded with a lot. 20 meters from the last waterfall, you will have to cross the river, for this we ask that you be careful, since the riverbed has some large rocks. Las Castas de Latas, are appreciated by national and foreign tourists who travel from different parts to enjoy all the wonders that it offers. Tips for the traveler: Entry fee: $ 1.50 Average temperature: 25 ° C Altitude: 460 meters above sea level Wear comfortable shoes or rubber boots. Mosquito repellent. Sunscreen. Water to stay always hydrated. If you require the food service, you can request it when you cancel your entry, the menu consists of: Tilapia Maito Maito de Pollo Chontacuros Wayusa and Lemonade. Camera, to capture this adventure. Ziploc bags, to store your belongings in case of a rain, which are characteristics of the sector. In the place the telephone signal is limited, so before going to the place inform to some relative so that they are attentive. To stay you can do it through Camping or advance to Misahuallí where there is a varied hotel and gastronomic offer. If you have any questions or comments do not hesitate to do it, by contacting us at info@buentrip.app.
Papallacta Hot Springs
A few kilometers from the city of Quito, there is the city of Papallacta that hosts the famous Papallacta Hot Springs, a place to enjoy the medicinal waters that offer the unique thermal baths in Ecuador. Papallacta is a small town in Ecuador located at an altitude of 3,250 m in the Andes near the Cordillera Oriental on the road to Quito, which leads to the Amazon rainforest. The tourist route from Quito to Papallacta passes through several villages and small villages before ascending to a maximum of more than 4,000 meters where the mountains and glaciers are visible. How to get to the Termas de Papallacta from Quito? The buses of different Cooperatives leave from the new Terminal Terrestre de Quito called "Quitumbe", located in the south of the city. However, it is recommended to arrive at the Coca River transfer stationto the north of the city, where the interparroquial buses of green color leave for the Cumbaya Valley and request the stop in Supermaxi and from there take the bus lines. As you can also take the buses at the Scala Shopping Mall stops described in the list of transports that take you to Papallacta {foto1} What to do in the Termas de Papallacta? Relax in the Spa: Relax in a place that combines the beauty of the natural environment with the quality and warmth of the service, in the private and exclusive environment of the resort spa, creating the perfect balance by combining thermal water pools with different hydromassages and a varied menu of treatments of health and beauty that will awaken your senses. Stay at the Termas de Papallacta In Termas Papallacta you can access the lodging service that varies between 150 - 200 dollars per night. The cabins for lodging have bathroom, heating and thermal pools for the exclusive use of resort guests. Although there are several cheaper options in hostels and hotels in the city of Papallacta or at the entrance of the Papallacta Hot Springs. Visit the Termas Papallacta Spa You can visit this spa for the day along with your loved ones, to live an experience of relaxation and rest that will give you health and wellbeing due to the medicinal properties of thermal water. Within a beautiful natural environment and a short distance from Quito. It has 9 thermal pools of different temperatures and sizes and 3 of cold water. Rates: Adult $ 9.00 Children $ 4.50 Seniors $ 4.50 Schedule: Admission to swimming pools: 06h00 a 21h00 / Closure: 22h30 Additional services Request floats for children at no cost Rental of towels and lockers: $ 1.00 each, a $ 5.00 guarantee is required for each item. Important notes: Minors: 0 to 2 years: do not pay entrance to swimming pools 3 to 11 years old: they pay a child fee. {foto4} Hikes at the Canyon Ranch Papallacta Termas Papallacta owns the so-called "Canyon of the Canyon", a protected area of around 200 hectares, located at the entrance of the Cayambe-Coca National Park. Visitors to the Papallacta Hot Springs can enjoy a spectacular view of the Antisana Volcano, which is elevated to 5,704 meters above sea level. Important notes: Before starting a walk, if you have health problems it is important that you visit the Medical Dispensary. The hiring of hikes, are subject to weather conditions in the area. The different routes of the Hikes at Rancho del Cañon are: Walk "Path of the River"Category: Research and adventure - guidedDuration: 2 or 3 hoursPrice: $ 8.00 per person with a guideIn this guided tour you can enjoy the wetlands and the high altitude primary forest, while walking through an old glacial valley, where you can see prehistoric plants and vegetation typical of the rainforest. Walk "Mintala"Category: High mountain - guidedDuration: 4 to 5 hoursPrice: $ 10.00 per person with a guideThis trail is recommended for those who need to practice to ascend to the snowy mountains. From the highest peak of 3,987 meters can be observed on clear days, the snow Antisana, the Choza Longo 1 and 2, the hill Antisanila, the snowy Cayambe, the Sumaco volcano, part of the Cayambe Coca National Park and all the town of Papallacta . Walk "De la Cascada"Category: Observation of jets - guidedDuration: 2 or 3 hoursPrice: $ 8.00 per person with a guideThe tourist attraction of this trail are the multiple waterfalls that are formed by the crags where the river descends from the sector of the peaks of Peine, from the National Park Cayambe - Coca. Walk "Path of the Island"Category: GuidedDuration: 1 hourPrice: $ 4.00This hike follows a section of the Loreto Papallacta River along a primary forest trail characterized by páramo vegetation. Walk "De Pailon"Category: Adventure (guided)Duration: 7 to 8 hoursPrice: $ 15.00 per person with a guideThe main adventure of this crossing is the crossing of almost 1 km of very steep slopes. From the highest peak of 4,122 meters above sea level, you can see the Antisana, Cayambe, Chozas Longos, Antisanilla and Sumaco volcanoes. {foto3} Important Notes when visiting Termas Papallacta MEDICAL OFFICE FREE OF CHARGE:Hours 08:30 to 20:30Consultations and advice (especially for the elderly).EmergenciesInformation to groups about the properties and uses of water.Blood pressure control. WARNINGS:Admission to the swimming pools is not recommended in the case of: pregnancy, heart problems and / or blood pressure, recent surgeries, paralysis and epilepsy, having ingested alcohol or using drugs. In case of doubts consult the doctor. {foto5} Tourist Attractions in Papalllacta Antisana Volcano This volcano is 55 km away. southeast of Quito. Latitude O ° 30 'S, longitude 78 ° 08 ° W; 3,800 mm3 pluviometric. Its location belongs to the Cordillera Real; The eruptive period is 150 to 500 years. Your income starts from the parochial jurisdiction of Papallacta, Comuna El Tambo, km. 40. Altitude, 3.658 m.s.n.m. (when entering); 17 M 0811985, UTM 9957713. How to get to the Antisana Volcano Departing from El Valle del Tambo through a very visible path through the valley that forms the river of the same name and receives the waters of Guamaní, you can reach the Tuminguina and Potrerillos lagoons in two and a half hours, arriving at the faults of the Antisana volcano takes four hours of travel and you can also continue to the Cotopaxi Volcano. Activities you can do in the Antisana Volcano Horse ride. Excursion. Sport fishing. Photography. Observation of flora and fauna. Scientific investigation. Recommendations Wear warm clothing, raincoat, rubber boots, wool cap, binoculars.Need to have a local guide Cayambe Coca National Park It is located in the Cayambe-Coca National Park, páramos of the Papallacta Parish, made up of the Parcacocha, Anteojos, Baños, Loreto, Sucus 1 and 2 lagoons, among others. The altitude ranges between 3,530 and 4,300 m.s., with a temperature of 9.8 ° C and rainfall of 1,472 mm3. Its geographical location is 17 M 0814548, UTM 9967184. How to get to the Cayambe Coca National Park It is entered by carriage way to the height of Termas de Papallacta. From the road there is a path of easy circulation that leads to the lagoons like Parcacocha, by means of a path of 1 km. to the Anteojos lagoon and from this to Baños distance 2 km. You can return to Parcacocha by walking 1 km. To be able to know the entire lacustrine system, with its wasteland, it is required at least two days of permanence in the place. You can also enter through the "Virgen del Páramo" sector. Flora National Park Cayambe Coca You can appreciate diversity of flora such as: romerillos, chuquiraguas, achupallas, senecios, Gynoxis, trees of approximately 2,5, m tall, "Paper tree" Polylepis for its light brown papyrus bark have a height of up to 10 meters In addition, the sector is dominated by pajonales of 50 to 100 cm. Tall. Fauna Cayambe Coca National Park You can see white-tailed deer, wilderness wolf, wild rabbit, spectacled bear, tapir, birds such as buzzer, blackbird, pond ducks; chylico curiquingue; in the smallest lagoon there dwell pairs of seagulls of height; Sometimes the flight of the condor can be appreciated. There is trout of the rainbow variety. Tourist activities Cayambe Coca National Park Hike to the lagoons along trails. Observation of flora and fauna. Photograph of the environment. Sport fishing. Scientific investigation. Recommendations Local guide. Wear warm clothing, raincoat, rubber boots and comfortable walking shoes, wool cap, binoculars. Comply with the norms established by the National Park: The visiting hours are from 06:00 to 18:00 every day. Use the established trails. Protect the signs and any other notice you find. Use covers for trash and bring back the waste. Keep quiet while enjoying the visit. Campfires can be carried out in permitted areas. The Park has authorized personnel, who will be able to request people who do not comply with the entry regulations to leave the area. Papallacta Lagoon It is located two kilometers before reaching the town via Quito-Papallacta-Baeza. Its geographical location is 00 ° 22'10 "LS, 78 ° 10'06" LW. It has an area of 32.4 hectares, is at 3,180 m.s. with a temperature of 9.8 ° C and pluviometric of 1.472.7 mm3. The water comes mainly from the Páramo wetlands of the Tambo Valley (Tambo River), its majestic vision can be seen from the left side of the road, the color of the waters is usually reflected in dark and deep tones. How to get to the Papallacta Lagoon The access presents great ease, it is entered through the interoceanic road that arrives from the city of Quito. Tourist attractions in the Papallacta Lagoon Photography. Recreation. Sport fishing. Recommendations Carry warm and waterproof clothing. Waterfalls of the Elf It is 4 kilometers from Papallacta Via Papallacta - Beza, sector of Rio Chalpi Chico. Its geographical location is 00 ° 22'11 "LS, 78 ° 10'09" LW. How to get to the Elf Waterfall The access is very easy, you enter the side of the Chalpi Chico river by a path of approximately 800 meters where you can see about 15 waterfalls. Tourist activities in El Duende Waterfall Photography. Recreation. Observation of flora, fauna (birds) Recommendations Carry warm clothes Comfortable shoes Elf waterfalls Hot Springs in Papallacta Terjamanco. It is located next to the Papallacta lagoon to reach a path of about 1 km on the left side of the interoceanic road.It has several thermal pools, restaurant, whirlpool, slide and leisure activities in the lagoon of Papallacta. Additionally it has places for picnic, parking. Termas Papallacta. To get from the town of Papallacta a carter is taken with a distance of 3 km, the trip by vehicle takes about 10 minutes.It has several thermal water pools, SPA, it is composed of aromatherapy, massages, sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi, among other assistances. Additionally, it offers accommodation, meals, and a convention center. Thermal Santa Catalina. It is located in the center of the town of Papallacta, approximately 1 km from the Papallacta triangle.Termales Santa Catalina is composed of several pools: rectangular adapted for children and seniors; round for children; whirlpool; sauna, cold water pool for contrast baths; semi-Olympic for those who like to practice swimming, additionally has restaurant service, parking. Sachayacu: It is a magical place with private hot springs inside the forest, we have a spectacular view from any point. At 200 meters entering through the tricolor metal bridge before the lagoon of papallacta. 10 minutes from the virgin of the paramos, bridge located on the left of the route direction down to the lagoon of Papallacta. Papallacta is only 45 minutes from the international airport of Quito. We will wait for you!
Spondylus Route Ecuador
This route offers us an unforgettable journey through beaches, museums, interpretation centers, bays, national parks and more. During the route of the Spondylus Route, we will discover the diverse elements that make up the culture of our country, especially the Ecuadorian coast. Your biggest challenge will be not to fall in love with all our beautiful beaches. Come to the Spondylus Route and capture unforgettable moments, come to Ecuador. In the route of the Spondylus Route you will cross different tourist cities such as: Salinas, La Libertad, Santa Elena, Puerto López y Jipijapa In addition-to the Gulf of Guayaquil, the Machalilla National Park and the Pacific coastal zone. The beautiful beaches that surround the Ecuadorian coastal area will start the Spondylus Route, where you can live unforgettable moments. You will be able to know different elements that are part of the culture and tradition of Ecuador, as well as tourist areas of great value. The Spondylus Route, includes a route along the Ecuadorian Coast that involves many magical places along its route, this route has been named after the Spondylus shell, which has an important value in the Valdivia culture in recent years. Spondylus shell was worth more than gold. It was considered a food of the gods, was admired and coveted by pre-Hispanic civilizations from the Late Valdivia period until the arrival of the Spanish conquerors in the sixteenth century. It is believed that the Incas came to the territory of present-day Ecuador behind this precious mollusk. It served as a transaction currency, personal adornment, to make anthropomorphic statuettes, zoomorphic sculptures, funerary offerings, as part of religious rituals and food of the gods.Magic-religious beliefs in Mother Nature governed the daily life of pre-Columbian cultures, to the point that they believed that owning a spondylus shell was synonymous with abundance, good omen, rain, was linked to fertility. From where the Spondylus Route begins It is a road that starts from the Province of Esmeraldas, heading south, passing through several cities and Ecuadorian provinces along the Pacific coast. The Spondylus Route reaches the border with our neighboring country Peru. Tourist places of the Spondylus Route Museums: throughout the tour you will have the opportunity to admire and learn about the culture and tradition of various ancestral cultures that inhabited these places, these museums transmit knowledge to locals and foreigners to keep ancestral knowledge alive. Museum of the House of Culture of Guayaquil Archaeological Museum of Manta: exhibits pieces of Las Vegas, Manteño, Valdivia, La Tolita cultures among others. Salango Museum Museum of the Agua Blanca Community. Some local museums, where you can admire archaeological remains up close and get to know the following cultures, such as in Sumpa and Valdivia, in Santa Elena, and Chirije, Cerro Jaboncillo and Agua Blanca, in Manabí. Along the Route of the Spondylus, in addition to knowing about the pre-Columbian cultures, you will be able to know Montecristi where its main tourist attraction is the toquilla that is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage. Machalilla National Park, where the Isla de la Plata is located. Beaches of Olón, of 3 kilometers, and whose main attractiveness is the sanctuary of the Virgin, located in an inlet, from where the landscapes with impressive. The beach of Montañita will also be attractive, as it is a favorite destination for surfers. The Ruta del Spondylus tour is a tour through some of Ecuador's most attractive landscapes. An itinerary of multisensings and experiences in the different tourism options that go from the sun and the beach, to the cultural-archaeological tourism, handicrafts, gastronomy, ecotourism and nature tourism, sports and adventure, agrotourism, etc. The Spondylus Route runs through the marine paradises of Ecuador, from the cloud forests northwest of Quito to Guayaquil along the coasts of Esmeraldas, Manabí and Guayas. The route of the Sun is part of the Spondylus route. The best time to travel the Spondylus Route The climate varies along the Ecuadorian coast. As a general rule we have that in Guayaquil and to the south, from January to May is the warm and rainy season, while the rest of the year is drier and fresher. The recommended months to visit this route are from June to September, since in these dates are the mating period of humpback whales, the main drawback of this time is the high influx of tourists and the increase in the prices of tourist services offered. Spondylus Route Map
13 dishes of the typical food of Ecuador
Ecuador a megadiverse country full of color and flavor, this time we present a list with the 13 dishes of the typical food of Ecuador Diversity is a constant in Ecuador and gastronomy is no exception. The country of the four worlds has a wide variety of flavors, which vary depending on the region and time of the year in which we find ourselves. Fine cocoa aroma and coffee recognized worldwide for its excellence, more than 570 varieties of potatoes, seven peanuts, quinoa, known as the "food of ancient Andean cultures", delicious and fresh seafood such as shrimp, positioned as One of the best on the planet, corn, banana, and one of the least intervened gastronomies in Latin America such as the Amazon, are just some of the components of Ecuadorian cuisine. Thousands of natural products of excellent quality, pleasant flavors and aromas, and expert hands making recipes that passed from generation to generation, make Ecuador a world culinary reference worth discovering. The food heritage of Ecuador is very rich and offers an unparalleled offer, as it is influenced by the special geographical features of the country. A universe of flavors and traditions exist in the 4 worlds of the country, anchored in a vast biodiversity from which many natural products arise. In the Galapagos world you can delight your palate with an exquisite organic coffee grown in volcanic soils and with a wide variety of fine dishes made from seafood obtained from responsible fishing. The Pacific Coast, characterized by its abundance of seafood and land products such as bananas, cocoa, shrimp and tuna, fused with the culinary traditions of its people, create the richest and most diverse cuisine in the country. To visit the Andes world, is to find snow, mountains, valleys, volcanic soils that make this region have a great agricultural wealth, where products such as potatoes, corn and mote combined with meats such as pork, are the protagonists of Delicious traditional dishes. And the Amazon world with a lush jungle, with waterfalls, crystalline rivers and an unequaled wealth in terms of flora and fauna. These natural elements are linked to the diversity of indigenous cultures that preserve a traditional local cuisine: they combine the aromas, colors and flavors inherited from their ancestors, achieving delicacies of yesteryear that only here you can find. Ecuador is positioning itself as a world culinary reference in which typical dishes are suggested to national and international tourists conquering the most demanding palates in the world. Let's review the list of typical dishes of Ecuador 1.- Shrimp Ceviche or Cebiche Shrimp ceviche is one of the most popular Ecuadorian ceviches. Ceviche, also known as cebiche (both names are acceptable), is a traditional dish very popular throughout Ecuador, but especially on the beach. One of the advantages of this ceviche is that it uses shrimp that are already cooked - unlike fish ceviche where the fish is “cooked” with the acidity of the subtle lemon, you can also prepare shell, squid, octopus, oyster ceviche, mixed ceviches, among others. The form of preparation as its ingredients are very varied and depend mainly on the place where it is prepared, on the coast it is usually accompanied by rice, bread or chifles, in contrast in the mountains that can be accompanied by canguil or popcorn, Toasted or roasted corn, rice or also chifles. 2.- Fanesca in Finados Ecuador This rich traditional soup is made of twelve different grains, each representing one of the twelve disciples of Jesus, according to Catholic tradition. In addition, the fanesca carries pumpkin, cod, slices of boiled egg, pieces of green banana, fried bread, cheese and peanuts. This is the traditional Easter dish and it is a tradition that brings together complete families in the preparation and tasting of this delicious dish. Fanesca Ecuador Recipe INGREDIENTS (12 to 15 people) 2 pounds of tender sambo cut in medium squares 2½ pounds of squash cut in medium squares 1½ pounds of sweet peas 2 pounds of shelled tender corn 1½ pounds of peeled tender beans 1½ pounds peeled tender beans 1 pound peeled cunt 5 cabbage leaves chopped very thin ½ pound roasted peanuts 6 stalks of chopped white onion 2 pounds of cod 2 heads of ground garlic 6 ounces of butter 2 teaspoons red butter or achiote paste ¼ cream 3 liters of milk ½ fresh cheese with salt Salt, pepper and cumin to taste PREPARATION OF THE FANESCA Last night soak the cod in water to remove excess salt. Cook all the beans separately. Cook the sambo and the squash in little water and when it is smooth proceed to liquefy. Cook the cod in a liter and a half of milk. Save that milk for the preparation of the pout. In a large pot we make a refrito with onion, ground garlic, butter and red butter. When the onion is crystalline add the ground peanuts with a liter of milk and let cook for 15 minutes, while stirring. Then we add the mashed sambo and squash, the chopped cabbage and the other grains, including the chocho. Add the milk with which the cod was cooked and constantly rock for 10 minutes to prevent burning. Add the cream of milk and the grated cheese over low heat and let it boil until the cheese is diluted. We decorate the fanesca plate with 2 slices of hard-boiled egg, strips of red pepper, miniature or mature breaded patties, long pieces of cheese and parsley. Note: This dish does not carry water, if the pout is very thick, increase more milk. Tips: To peel the tender beans, you have to freeze it and then proceed to peel. To prevent the cooked grains from being damaged, let them cool without covering them. 3.- Hornado Baking with Chiriuchi or Aji Frio Dish of Creole origin, its name is given by the cooking technique: the whole pork is marinated and baked in wood all night, served with mote or potatoes. This dish is characterized by its sour or chiriucho, a dressing made with chunks of rocoto pepper, water, salt, onion, tomato; Some panela or chicha. The pig originally from Asia was introduced by the Spaniards to gastronomy in America, which remains in force in the Andean region. This dish can be tasted in traditional markets where the little houses jealously guard their secrets, and attract visitors with captivating phrases like "come, my pretty", to delight in this dish. 4.- Colada Morada and Guaguas de Pan Thick purple drink based on black cornmeal, which commemorates the day of the dead, a very old custom in the Andes. It is a reference of pre-Hispanic ancestry and Creole by the Spanish priests who knew how to adapt this custom to the Christian celebration of the Day of the Dead, a date of singular importance in November. Purple laundry, a food that expresses the miscegenation of Ecuadorians, consists of cooking aromatic herbs to which black corn flour and chopped fruits such as pineapple, blackberry, strawberry and baba are added. This drink is accompanied by traditional bread buses. Although the majority of ingredients are produced in the Andean region, their consumption has a huge reception throughout the country, merging in their preparation products from different regions. 5.- Ecuadorian onions / Encebollado Fish soup (tuna or albacore), cooked with cassava and onion, served with chifles, bread or rice. Of contemporary origin, it is a hot soup that carries albacore, cassava, onion, and coriander. It is served with chifles and in some places with white rice and bread. It is a traditional dish of the Coast, originally from the province of Guayas. The first form of the onion was cooked in the city of Guayaquil as an economic alternative to the ceviche of bucket; Around the 70s, this dish expanded throughout the city, occupying stalls and corners, gaining popularity as a balm and remedy for chuchaqui. It is one of the most traditional dishes of Ecuador, you can taste it nationally in hollows, markets and restaurants. 6.- Llapingacho Traditional dish of potato tortillas, accompanied with sausage, fried eggs, beet salad and lettuce. The llapingacho is of pre-Hispanic and Creole origin. These are potato tortillas, fresh cheese and white onion refried. First, the peeled potatoes are cooked in salted water until they boil and soften; achiote is added to give color. They are crushed with a spoon or a mallet, until a firm consistency is achieved; It is assembled by hand and roasted in butter on cans. Its name comes from the Kichwa ‘llapina’ which means to crush and from the Castilian ‘gacha’, soft dough. Traditionally they are served with sausage, fried egg, beet salad and avocado. The dish is for daily consumption, easily found in restaurants, markets and local food fairs. 7.- Cascaritas, crispy leathers of the Andes Roasted and golden pork leather accompanied with mote, llapingacho, salt and chili pepper to taste. Dish of Creole origin, with more than 50 years of tradition. Its preparation begins with the “scorched” of the bristles and the pig's leather with a gas torch, then butter is spread and it continues to singe until it takes on a black tone. During the process, the shell should be punctured to remove excess grease and scrape the surface of the leather. The cascarita is ready when it is thin, crispy and golden. Formerly the cascarita was prepared with dried eucalyptus or llazhipa leaves, now these elements and techniques have been replaced by the industrial torch. Cascaritas are found in the pic before located at the edges of the road of the state axis of the cantons Azogues, Biblián, Déleg, Cañar and La Troncal. 8.- Ayampaco and fish maito Wrapped chicken or fish in a bijao leaf cooked with Amazonian vegetables accompanied by green banana or cassava. It is a wrapping of pre-Hispanic origin, present in the center and south of the Amazon; to prepare, chicken or fish is placed on the leaves of bijao, banana, palms or shiguango, and Amazonian species and vegetables that provide different aromas are added, then wrapped by folding the side parts and the ends of the leaves, it is tied with a natural fiber and is cooked on the coals of coal. One option is to make it with products other than the original, such as viscera or the popular Mukint (chontacuro). It is served with cassava and hot guayusa. It is a recipe of ancestral shuar cuisine; With the passage of time, the technique of cooking in leaves has been adapted by the mestizo population of the 12 cantons. It can be consumed in restaurants and hollows throughout the province. 9.- Uchumanka, the pot of chili pepper Spicy soup based on Amazonian products: palm heart, chili peppers, veryo legs, pitun. Of prehispanic origin. It is a spicy soup with fish or smoked chicken and chili, which is complemented with veryo legs, palm heart and kallamba (wild mushrooms). It is served with cassava, plantain or cooked native potato. In the mother tongue of the Amazonian nationalities, the word "uchu" means chili and manka, pot or food. The villages made this dish based on aycha (meat) and challua aychawa, (fish), which were served at parties or special occasions. The Uchumanka can be tasted when visiting community ventures and traditional restaurants in the province of Orellana. 10.- Dry goat, typical of the Ecuadorian coast Popular goat stew accompanied by yellow rice, avocado and fried ripe banana. Dish of Creole origin. It is a stew with goat meat or sheep; in a refrito the pieces of meat are browned, the ferment liquid is incorporated and cooked until it is reduced and it is like a sauce. Goat meat is fermented or marinade, either in chicha de jora, orange juice or beer. This culinary trick is used in homes to eliminate the tufo that meat usually has and softens the product. Currently in the sector known as Muey from the Salinas canton, they use tamarind in fermentation, as an ingredient of the area giving a pleasant taste to the palate. It is said that the name "dry" was born in Ancon when English diners saw a delicious dish that was served after the soup and wanted the "second" soon, that is, the second dish. It is so, so the local cooks baptized it as dry. It is sold in restaurants located on the road to the Pacific Coast. 11.- Tigrillo Green banana cooked and mashed with onion and achiote refried, served with egg, cheese and / or pork rinds. Dish of Creole origin, prepared with mashed green banana (cooked and crushed) mixed with egg and cheese, you can also add pork rinds. Its history comes from the Zarumean ancestors, who roasted bananas in fathoms. In that process of direct contact with the fire, the texture of the product was more roasted and burned in parts. Then, they crushed it (crushed) with a stone on a wooden bat; in the end, black spots were observed that were imposed to the normal color of the banana, similar to the skin of the homonymous feline. Currently, the tigrillo is found throughout the province, mainly in the Zaruma canton, it can be served accompanied by a cup of past coffee. 12.- Ceviche Volquetero, authentic flavor of Puyo - Pastaza In the city of Puyo the typical official dish is "El Volquetero" consists of a typical Puyo dish that was born from the need to provide an alternative food to the dump truck drivers who had been working on the construction of roads for more than 40 years, and it is made up of chochos, chifles, toast, tuna, onion and tomato. Unlike traditional fish ceviche, this recipe is prepared with canned tuna. This typical dish of the weekends is served on the Malecon of the Puyo Boayacu River, its history dates back to the beginning of the construction of the city, when Puyo was a city of just five thousand inhabitants as now the dump trucks and their chauffeurs, were a vital part of the development of the city, hard work and full days made diners demand speed and delicacy in preparation resulting in the dish that until today enjoys great popularity for locals and tourists. I share below the recipe of this fascinating and simple ceviche: Ingredients 1 can of tuna 1 green onion 2 kidney tomatoes Lemon Salt to taste Chifles (fried green banana) 1 cup of cunt 1 cup roasted corn Preparation: Cut the green onion en pen and cut it out. Once the onion is tanned, add salt, lemon and mix it with the tomato cut into squares. Reserve Wash the chochos in salt water. Reserve Assemble the dish as follows: first put a layer of chifles and toast, then the onion, a layer of chochos and finally put the tuna. 13.- Shrimp of fish or shellfish Cooked fish or other seafood cooked in coconut milk, flavored with chillangua and served with patacones and rice. Dish of Creole origin. It is a stew based on coconut milk with fish or shellfish; a refried onion, pepper and garlic are made; then coconut milk is added and boiled, then the fish or shellfish is placed and the chillangua (wild coriander), in addition, local herbs such as oreganon and chirarán are used. Preferably served with white rice and patacones. The history of the dish goes back 200 years ago. Coconut milk from ancient times to date is extracted by hand, grating the pulp with a black shell and squeezing its liquids; This is the main product that gives flavor and characteristic aroma to the dish. It is a dish of daily consumption, and it is found in restaurants and hollows in the area.
5 adventure sports you can do in Otavalo Imbabura Province Ecuador
Tourist activities in Otavalo, Imbabura Province, Ecuador How to get to Otavalo from Quito? From the Carcelén terminal north of Quito, take a bus from the Otavalo Cooperative or Los Lagos Cooperative that will take you to the Otavalo terminal from where you can take a taxi to any point in the city you want. The ticket to Quito-Otavalo is $ 2.50 USD. The cost of the taxi within the city is $ 1.25 USD. Otavalo general information The Otavalo canton is located in the province of Imbabura, in the northern region of Ecuador. It has an area of 528 square kilometers. It is located 110 kilometers (2 hours) north of Quito. Limits: The cantons Cotacachi, Antonio Ante and Ibarra limit to the north. The southern border has the canton of Quito (Pichincha). To the east are the cantons Ibarra and Cayambe (Pichincha) and to the west the cantons Quito and Cotacachi (Pichincha). Population: 110,000 inhabitants. 44.3% of the population lives in the urban sector and the remaining 55.7% in the rural sector. Official language: Spanish and Kichwa Currency: US dollar Religion: There is freedom of religion, but Catholicism predominates. Altitude and climate: There are different altitudes, from 1,100 m.a.s.l. in the area of the Jungle Alegre until 4,700 m.a.s.l. on the hill Imbabura. The average temperature is 14 degrees Celsius. Location of Otavalo: The city of Otavalo is located 110 kilometers north of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, in a spacious valley of 8,210 square kilometers, at a height of 2,565 m.a.s.l. It is surrounded by the Imbabura volcano, the Fuya Fuya hill and the Cotama and Rey Loma hills. 1.- Canyoning in Otavalo Ecuador Otavalo has unique landscapes that let us live exciting adventures full of excitement and fun. The Waterfalls of Taxopamba form the ideal place to spend a day full of adrenaline and strong emotions since in them we can practice canyoning. The route to carry out this activity is completely adequate with handrails, anchor plates, parabolts, maillions, etc. that is to say, with all the facilities so that the canyonist crosses the route with all the security and confidence. In the tour we will find small waterfalls with shallow fords and at the end of the section we can descend by a couple of natural slides of approximately 15 meters each to finally rappel from a natural balcony at an approximate height of 30 meters and then another descent of 15 meters To end the tour. For more information, you can approach the Tourist House, near the Plaza de los Ponchos. What should you take to take this tour? Wetsuits Equipment suitable for canyoning Comfortable shoes Warm clothes for winter time Mosquito Repellent Glasses Photographic camera Tips and precautions for this tour: In Otavalo there are several Tourism Operators that offer canyoning tours with all the qualified chiases and necessary equipment certified and approved to provide all the safety during the entire tour. Precautions when performing this activity: If you do not hire the services of a specialized operator, you must have a good knowledge of rope handling, rescue and others as the difficulty increases in the route as you go. 2.- Kayaking in Otavalo Ecuador Rowing in the calm waters of the lagoons of Mojanda and San Pablo is the best way to navigate them and enjoy all their beauty. It is one of the best options to spend moments of rest and relaxation in the middle of a unique landscape that you will never forget. What should you take to do this activity? Sunglasses Cap Sunscreen Mosquito Repellent Warm clothing Tips and precautions when performing this activity: Always have life jackets. Try not to get too far from the banks as strong winds can get us to play tricks. 3.- Rock Climbing in Otavalo Ecuador Wantun Rumi is a rock formation of volcanic origin of approximately 15 meters high and is 7.69 km from the city of Otavalo, in the community of Quinchuquí. It is an ideal place for picnics, hiking, photography, rock climbing and camping. The recommended route will take us through the community of Peguche where we can visit its famous Andean crafts and instruments workshops. What should you take to do this activity? Mosquito Repellent Comfortable shoes Sunglasses Water Waterproof clothing Cap Photographic camera Tips and precautions when performing this activity: Have knowledge of the proper handling of ropes to avoid accidents. 4.- Bicycle touring in Otavalo Ecuador In Otavalo you can enjoy nature and its landscapes pedaling with your family or friends since the difficulty of each of the routes range from easy to moderate, ideal to enjoy them s In a lot of effort. We have 6 routes that will give you a unique experience that you will surely never forget. Bicycle touring routes in Otavalo Ecuador: Otavalo - El Lechero - Condor Park - San Pablo Lake Otavalo - Peguche Waterfall - Ilumán Otavalo - Wantun Rumi Cajas - Otavalo Mojanda - Otavalo Otavalo - Mojanda Lagoons What should you take to do this activity? Gloves Glasses Helmet Repellent Sportswear Sports shoes Camera Water Tips and precautions when performing this activity: Follow the proposed routes. Be accompanied by at least 2 more people. 5.- Trekking and Camping in Otavalo Ecuador To get in touch with nature, discover stunning views that only the moors and its lagoons can offer you. Recommended walking routes: Otavalo - El Lechero - Condor Park - San Pablo Lagoon (2 hours) Otavalo - Peguche Waterfall - Ilumán (2 hours) Otavalo - Wantun Rumi (2 hours) Otavalo - Taxopamba Waterfall (2 hours) Mojanda - Fuya Fuya (2 hours) Otavalo - Heart of Imbabura (3 hours) Otavalo - Mojanda Lagoons (4 hours) Mojanda - Otavalo (4 hours) Recommended places for camping in Otavalo Ecuador: Peguche waterfall Lagoons of Mojanda Source: Page of the Cantonal Government of Otavalo otavalo.gob.ec Tourism page of Otavalo otavalo.travel
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