Expats choosing to retire to Ecuador are taking the “road less traveled’ and enjoying it. Though not as well-known as other popular Latin America destinations, Ecuador has an untapped potential that could make it the most popular retirement destination in the region.
There are more options for retirees in Ecuador today than ever before. Improvements in the country’s infrastructure have opened more areas for expats looking for a less cluttered existence.
Johnny Gustavo
Retire to Ecuador, Save Money, Live the Life You Want
Ecuador’s cost of living is certainly one of the most affordable in Latin America. It is important to remember, however, that some online claims about living there for practically nothing are overblown. Like anyplace else, how much you spend will depend on the choices you make concerning location, amenities, and luxuries.
The fact that the U.S. dollar is the currency of Ecuador is an important plus. Knowing the cost of things and not having to deal with currency exchange rates certainly makes budgeting for your retirement much easier – especially for those on fixed incomes.
Being able to buy or rent your retirement retreat at reasonable prices is one of the biggest draws of Ecuador. Even in the larger cities like Quito or Guayaquil, a spacious three-bedroom apartment can rent for under $1,500 per month. Rental and sale prices in smaller towns make finding a home much less stressful.
The lower health care costs that are offered in Ecuador certainly make living a healthy lifestyle much easier. Modern state-of-the art facilities provide high quality care at a fraction of the expense for the same procedures in the U.S. Dental care and dental tourism is another area where retiree dollars can go farther and enhance the quality of living for years to come.
An important and intangible benefit to retiring in Ecuador is the more relaxed pace of daily living. Being able to appreciate the natural beauty of the country, without the hectic approach to living found in the U.S., can make those retirement years truly “golden.”
Crucita MLS
Investment Potential Continues to Grow
A decision to retire to Ecuador may also provide the potential for a strong return on investments. There are a number of areas that are primed for new projects as expats continue to arrive seeking new housing and commercial options. In addition to already built properties, there is a growing number of undeveloped lots that are available in a variety of locations; both urban and rural.
The beach towns of Canoa and Ancon have a great deal of undeveloped and underdeveloped property that can be purchased quite reasonably. Crucita has become a world-class destination for paragliders and hang gliders. This increase in the tourist trade makes investing in rental properties a viable and potentially profitable action to consider. Along with San Clemente, this area is well on the way to becoming the next Pacific “Gold Coast.”
The beach is not the only part of Ecuador that is an attractive investment option. Cuenca, a World Heritage city in the foothills of the Andes and the Yunguilla Valley are becoming increasingly popular as expat destinations and potential retirement meccas that combine a moderate climate, rich cultural history, and affordable prices.
International Realestate
The Beauty of Ecuador – So Many Diverse Locations
One of the most unique features of Ecuador is the wide diversity of regions that can be your retirement destination.
For those whose idea of a tropical paradise is a cosmopolitan city with attractions and entertainments, Quito and Guayaquil are both modern and filled with the kind of amenities one might find in any major city in the U.S. These cities also are the locations of the two international airports in Ecuador; Mariscal Antonio José de Sucre in Quito and Simon Bolivar in Guayaquil.
Cuenca captures the flavor of the Andean Highlands and retains the essence of its rich colonial heritage. The coastal villages of Canoa, Ancon, San Clemente are rustic, laid-back beach communities just perfect for those looking for a more authentic Ecuadorian experience.
For those truly seeking to ‘”get away from it all,” Ecuador also has a number of island communities that could be your retirement paradise. Santa Cruz, Isla Isabella, Pena and San Cristobal are just some of the places expats are beginning to pay attention to.
The continued growth in the number of expats and retirees coming to Ecuador will increase the options available. Some of the small jungle towns, such as Banos, are in the earliest stages of moving from tourist attraction to a destination for expat arrivals to settle and develop.
Even beyond the possibilities of places to live, there are stunning natural wonders suddenly much closer if you are living in Ecuador. The Galapagos Archipelago, the Andes, and the Amazon Basin become more accessible and easier to explore; adding another dimension to the desirability of this Latin American gem.
Lobitadelsur
So Many Positives to Choose Ecuador and Things to Consider
For retirees, expats looking for a tropical escape, and investors exploring new options, Ecuador has many features to commend it. Constantly improving infrastructure, growing communities of North Americans and Europeans, and affordable properties are all important reasons to retire to Ecuador.
However, even in a tropical paradise, there are a number of factors that you should examine as part of your decision-making process. First and foremost is that English, while growing in usage, is not the dominant day-to-day language – particularly in the smaller rural villages and towns. An honest appraisal of your comfort level of living someplace where communications may be challenging at times is truly an important step to a happy relocation.
A second consideration is the fact that the more rustic communities also have fewer of the modern amenities of major cities such as Quito, Guayaquil, and Cuenca. If having ready access to high speed internet, cable television, etc. is a necessity, this could limit the potential Ecuadorian locations that might be right for you.
Patience is an important facet of expat life throughout Latin America and Ecuador is no exception. Travel, particularly where the only option is driving, can take significantly longer; repairs and improvements to infrastructure items such as roads, electricity, and even water, may involve much more time than one might find in the U.S. or Europe.
In the end, the best way to truly know if Ecuador is right for you (and if you are a good fit for Ecuador) is to talk to others who have made the decision. Do your research and, most importantly, visit this unique land of potential and promise and see if it resonates within you and makes you want to retire to Ecuador.
The highlands of Ecuador are pulling many expats to the region, thanks to their mild climate and rich cultural offerings. Whether you want big city amenities, natural beauty, or historic ambiance, these towns have it in great quantities. Here are our Viva Tropical choices for six of the best mountain towns in Ecuador.
Colleen Taugher
Cotacachi
The tranquil, rustic vibe of Cotacachi is what draws visitors to this small town. Situated with a volcano on both the east and west sides, Cotacachi still has much of the flavor of old Ecuador. Most of its activities and festivals revolve around nature and the seasons, and markets feature local arts and crafts. There’s a vibrant Andean music scene there as well, and traditional pan flute music can be heard wafting from the street corners.
Cotacachi is so small, most people find no need for a car there. And the cost of living is so tiny, you may pinch yourself when you see rental fees or grocery prices. The great thing about Cotacachi is that you can enjoy the serenity of life there and go to nearby Ibarra or Quito for more lively activity.
Roberto Sanchez
Otavalo
Cotacachi’s neighbor, Otavalo, is just an inexpensive bus fare away. Surrounded by mountains, Otavalo is known for some of the most beautiful and interesting markets in all of Latin America. Be sure to get plenty of pics of the Incan Mercado Artesanal, where brilliantly colored fabric and clothing, as well as handicrafts, are unparalleled. Otavalo also has an animal market where livestock is bought and sold and a produce market nearby.
Like much of Ecuador, Otavalo is a mix of Spanish and indigenous cultures. Although the nights are cooler (down to the 40s sometimes), days are frequently in the 70s, which is ideal for seeing the abundance of local natural sights. Don’t miss the Imbabura volcanic mountain ranges, Peguche Waterfall, or Lago San Pablo – a perfect one-day hike in this gorgeous setting.
Diane
Vilcabamba
If you want to live a long time, enjoying a healthy lifestyle, you can’t beat Vilcabamba. While the locals there may not be quite as old as their reputed 100+ years, they have virtually no heart disease, diabetes, or serious illness. Much of their longevity is attributed to healthy diet; until the rest of civilization descended on Vilcabamba around the ’60s, Ecuadorians there ate an organic vegetarian diet, full of fresh vegetables and grains, with little fat and no animal products.
Nowadays, Vilcabamba is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to grow their own food. With fertile soil at its altitude of 5,000 feet and temperatures in the 65-80 degree range, it’s a year-round farmer’s paradise. The water is as clean as the air there too. Vilcabamba’s water comes from glacier-fed lakes in the mountains above, and it’s packed with minerals, without any of the chemicals and preservatives found most other places around the world.
Throw in the low cost of living, reasonable real estate market, and stunning surroundings, and Vilcabamba is a winner. You can live like the natives and practice functional exercise by hiking or riding the area on horseback. With views like sacred Inca sites and lush waterfalls, be sure to bring your camera.
Dave Bezaire
Cuenca
Cuenca is the most well-known of the expat magnets in Ecuador. The third largest city in the country, it has a big-city feel with a manageable population of 350,000. While you can find fine arts and gourmet dining there, the cost of living is still quite low; a couple can live very well on $1,500 per month.
Cuenca offers a balance of old Ecuadorian culture and new amenities. The real estate market has slowed down slightly from its rollicking 5-12% appreciation rate of the last decade, which makes it a good time to snag an investment property at a deal. Historic and agricultural properties are available for purchase and are largely accessible via the city’s fine public transportation system. Other reasons people love Cuenca:
- excellent health care
- widespread availability of high-speed Internet
- few cars for a city its size
- family-friendly atmosphere
- safety (very little violent crime)
- year-round temperatures in the 70s
- four rivers in the area
- multiple universities and good schools
- connected but locally assimilated expat community
Gregouille
Ibarra
Nicknamed “The White City,” Ibarra was founded by the Spanish in 1606 at the base of the Imbabura volcano. While it boasts the great climate and low cost of living of many other cities in Ecuador, Ibarra is known for its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. If you like organized sports competition, try one of their running or bike races. Or how about a public park with climbing walls and an abundance of post-workout hot springs?
Although it’s quite cultured, Ibarra is a less typical expat destination than many spots in Ecuador. This has less to do with what’s offered there than the fact that little English is spoken in Ibarra, so the learning curve as an expat is a bit steeper for some. It’s also tougher to reach, with no direct flights into the city; visitors must fly into either Quito or Tulcan and drive from there.
Fabulousfabs
Loja
Loja, in the Southern Sierra region, is another less frequent expat destination. Located near Vilacamba, with a population of around 200,000, Loja has the warm days and cool nights favored by nature lovers. With temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s, there’s no need for heat or air conditioning, which cuts down on the already reasonable cost of living there.
Loja’s natives and small expat community enjoy the city’s layout, which is organized, Spanish-style, around town squares. What Loja is really known for, however, is being the music capital of Ecuador. With two orchestras and a music conservatory, there is never any lack of melodic entertainment there.
No matter where you land in Ecuador, you are sure to be wowed by the incredible scenery, warm people, and diverse culture of its cities. Once you find a home base, you can take advantage of places like Papallacta, with its volcanic heated hot springs and see more than 130 species of hummingbird in the Amazon Basin cloud forest nearby. The ease of immigration in Ecuador is a fantastic plus. No wonder so many expats are now calling the Ecuadorian highlands home.
Mountain Towns of Ecuador
Much like Costa Rica and Panama before it, Ecuador has gained the attention of expats from the U.S., Canada and Europe. Ecuador’s top five locations for expats offer the unique combination of being largely undeveloped with reasonable real estate prices.
Michael Shick
Whether your tastes run to a beach lifestyle, an Amazonian jungle hideaway, or a mountain retreat, Ecuador Real Estate has something for everyone. Supported by expat friendly policies and a commitment to develop and improve the infrastructure, Ecuador is truly on the cusp of a renaissance for those looking to find a new way of life in Latin America.
What Makes Ecuador Special
There are a number of reasons that expats should consider Ecuador as a possible spot to retire or invest. First and perhaps most important is the fact that the U.S. dollar is the official currency in Ecuador. Being able to calculate the costs of things, without having to consider exchange rates, makes budget allocation much easier.
A second important consideration is that non-residents have the same property rights as Ecuadorian citizens. It is not even necessary to apply for residency in order to own land.
Ecuador has some of the most favorable tax rates anywhere in Central or South America. For expat retirees, the already low assessment is reduced even further to 50% of the amount assessed.
Last, but by no means least, is the fact that so much of Ecuador still retains its authentic and rustic qualities. For expats seeking a less hectic, more traditional lifestyle, the small villages and towns in Ecuador are a great fit.
With so many options, looking at available properties and lots in Ecuador is certainly worthwhile. Finding your tropical paradise begins with just a click of a mouse.
Samuel Irving
Ecuador’s Top Five: Life at the Beach – San Clemente
Located on the Central Pacific Coast, San Clemente has become one of the prime locations for high adrenaline sports like hang gliding, paragliding and kite surfing. Enthusiasts from all over the globe have flocked to this sleepy fishing village to enjoy these adventure activities.
One of the prime draws of San Clemente is its beaches. There are no fewer than seven named beach locations close to town that expats can visit and enjoy.
Being largely undeveloped, San Clemente has lower property costs than larger communities such as Manta or Portoviejo. Similarly, the overall cost of living is much lower for basics such as rent, utilities and other basic services.
In terms of larger investment projects, at present there is only one major effort, the Vistazul Townhouses, in and around the village. Certainly there is ample opportunity for other developers to start projects that will meet the anticipated needs of new expats expected in the region.
Eduardo Santillán Truillo
Life at the Beach Part II – Bahia
It’s not surprising that Bahia is one of Ecuador’s Top Five. Long a favorite beach community, Bahia, or more properly Bahia de Caraquez, has reinvented itself as an “ecocity” that draws eco-tourists and expats from all over the world.
Located on a peninsula at the mouth of the Rio Chone, Bahia was home to the indigenous native city of Caran before being settled by the Spanish in 1628.
The influx of expats over the last two decades has transformed Bahia into a tourist friendly destination with a well-developed infrastructure. A great example of this growth is the bridge spanning the Rio Chone to San Vicente. This bridge has become the major source of traffic between these two communities.
There are many high-rise properties, hotels, and resorts in the city. Even though the number of cluster-type and high-density units is large, Bahia still retains a cleanliness and calm atmosphere not often found in resort-type areas. Ironically, many of the properties sit vacant expect during the “high” (January through April) season as a significant number are vacation homes only.
With many amenities and a significant expat community, Bahia is particularly attractive for those who want the conveniences of “home” (U.S., Canada, or Europe). As the coastal roads continue to improve, visiting and exploring other parts of western Ecuador becomes more convenient and an additional feature of relocating there.
As might be expected, the cost of living in Bahia is somewhat higher than less-developed locations. While rentals in town can run between $1,000-$1,500 range, utilities are still relatively low and, depending on use, may average less than $120 per month for basic services. Importantly, sales prices just outside the city center are more reasonable even for the higher end units.
Meredith Cook
Two Costal Lowlands Getaways – Canoa and Ancon
Separated by roughly 125 miles, the two beach communities of Canoa and Ancon both have real potential for expats looking to get away from it all at the beach. With very little development at either location, immersing in a true, rustic Ecuadorian lifestyle can be a dream come true.
Ancon, located just outside of Salinas, was the first oil-producing location in the area, starting in 1911. Originally the village was home base for British petroleum engineers. Nearly forgotten through the years, the town is now regaining popularity as a vacation spot for Ecuadorians living in the U.S. and for expats discovering the great values that can be found there.
Finding ocean view properties and restored villas for under $150,000 is not an unreasonable expectation. While there is not much in the way of infrastructure at this point in time, as more investors and expats move into the area, improvements and higher prices will not be far behind.
Canoa, to the north, has 17 km of pristine sands, making it the longest beach in Ecuador. The roads in the village are all dirt and the rustic, hippie-like vibe of the place is one of the major reasons that expats have been drawn there.
There are some higher-end properties in and around Canoa but, for the most part, the private homes clustered around the center are modest. As a consequence, property costs remain low and the potential for development is high.
One important aspect to keep in mind is that the lifestyle of both places IS rustic. If a more cosmopolitan environment is a requirement, these small fishing communities may not be for you.
Also, remember that English speakers may not be as numerous as in larger cities. For some expats, having to deal with day-to-day matters in Spanish may be a bit confounding.
Dr. Dicker
Valley Living – Yunguilla: A Hidden Gem
Combining an eco-friendly lifestyle, stunning views, and a true Ecuadorian vibe, Yunguilla is being touted as a more accessible alternative to Vilcabamba. Located a short 45 minutes from the community identified as the “cultural heart and soul” of Ecuador-Cuenca, this area could well become a major expat location as more people discover the potential waiting there.
One big difference is that Yunguilla is not a town but a valley running 104 miles from just outside of Cuenca to the port city of Machala. There are a number of small villages scattered throughout the valley but a large portion has retained its natural, untouched state.
The climate in Yunguilla is very comfortable due in large part to its geography. The valley has an East-West orientation providing ample sunshine and a short rainy season.
Ranging from a altitude of 4500 ft. on the Santa Isabel end to roughly 7000 ft. near Giron, closest to Cuenca, temperatures in the valley range from the low 80s during the day to a very comfortable high 50s-low 60s at night. These moderate numbers also translate into reduced costs for air conditioning; certainly an added benefit not found in most tropical locations.
Although much of the Yunguilla area is underdeveloped, the region is home to a number of prominent and wealthy Ecuadorian families. The result is that most of the development being undertaken is being done by Ecuadorians.
Additionally, the infrastructure is far superior to most of rural Ecuador. Quality water, telephone, and electrical power plus a well maintained and modern highway has made Yunguilla very attractive as a potential expat magnet.
For those seeking an existing residence, the quality of construction in the valley far exceeds many areas of Ecuador. In spite of all the modernization, property values from one end of Yunguilla to the other may range as much as 30% less than comparable properties in Vilcabamba. When the natural beauty and rustic charm of this hidden gem are factored in, Yunguilla can tick many of the boxes expats have for their tropical destination.
Andreas Kay
Cotacachi – Retreat to the Mountains
Nestled between two volcanoes, Cotacachi is becoming one of the more popular expat destinations in Ecuador. Located two hours north of Quito, this mountain town is next to the Cayapas Ecological Reserve with its 750,000 acres of protected forest land.
After online features about this rustic village appeared in 2007, expats began to move into Cotacachi. Having an established expat community certainly can make the transition to life in Ecuador much easier for those who are experiencing life abroad for the first time.
The beautiful Andean vistas, low cost of living and the reasonable property prices have all contributed to Cotacachi’s popularity. The top leather artisans in Ecuador offer their quality products, including coats, shoes, and accessories for sale at prices far lower than in many other locations.
The mountain climate with temperatures in the low 70s during the day to mid 50s at night makes air conditioning almost unnecessary. Rainfall is very moderate; even during rainy season, it is rare to have more than days out of the month with any precipitation.
Property prices, while on the rise, are still quite reasonable for an area with a good infrastructure and amenities. Utilities can run under $60 per month (electricity, water, heat, telephone, cable, and internet) and rents can be under $600 a month for multi-bedroom units.
For those looking to buy, there are a number of choices from small Ecuadorian homes to well-appointed villas. Lots of all sizes are also available for those expats wanting to build their own vision of paradise.
How to Find the Best Place for Expats in Ecuador
The top five areas described above are some of the hottest locations for expats throughout Ecuador. There are many other options that are worth exploring. Understanding the fine points of property ownership and how it can benefit you is an important first step in becoming an expat in Ecuador. Take that step today!!
OliverH
There’s a lot of buzz about Ecuador as an expat haven that’s among the world’s best places to retire or live in Latin America. But not a lot of people know much about it.
Like, for starters, where is Ecuador? I mean, it’s on the equator, right? Hence the name. But doesn’t that mean it’s unbearably hot?
And is it a long way away? How do I get there and how long is the flight?
We’ll answer these and other questions you may have about this popular destination. But let’s start with the most important one.
Where Is Ecuador on a Map?
There it is! Right there on the west coast of northern South America. Between Colombia to the north and Peru to the south. The equator does pass through it, roughy ¼ of the way down, near Quito.
Andrew Turner
How Do I Get There?
Ecuador has two main airports. There’s Mariscal Sucre in Quito and Simon Bolivar in Guayaquil. Quito’s airport is new and modern. It even has an on-site hotel that’s currently being built. However, both are a bit of a hike from the city. The old airport, which was more centrally located, is now closed and is being transformed into a park.
Some travelers also fly into Guayaquil on the coast. It also has a modern international airport with all the amenities you’d expect, like restaurants and duty-free shopping. It’s only a few minutes north of the downtown area.
Once in the country, buses are plentiful and affordable. There are also a number of regional airports, including two in the Galapagos Islands, which can only be accessed via mainland Ecuador.
What Airlines Fly into Ecuador?
U.S. Airlines that offer flights to Ecuador include Delta, United, and American Airlines. TAME, an Ecuador-based airline, flies into New York City. LAN Ecuador also flies there, as well as Miami.
From the U.K., you can fly American Airlines from Heathrow to Quito. KLM will also get you to Quito from Heathrow, by way of Amsterdam.
Other airlines that fly into Ecuador from destinations throughout Latin America are Copa, Avianca, Aeromexico, Iberia, and TACA.
Morpholux
Do I Need a Visa to Go There?
Not unless you want to stay for more than three months. By presidential decree, citizens of any country may visit Ecuador and stay for a period of 90 days. You won’t need a visa. However, you’ll want to check with your embassy to see what other paperwork might be required. For North Americans and most European travelers, it’s usually just a passport and a copy of your return ticket.
Sara Y Tzunky
When Is the Best Time to Go?
Because Ecuador is located on the equator, it has roughly the same weather year-round. So there’s really no bad time to visit. However, depending on the region, some seasons are a little better than others, as Ecuador’s climate varies greatly among its four distinct areas.
The coastal lowlands stay between 80 and 90 degrees. During the rainy season (December to April), you can expect a torrential downpour pretty much every day.
The Andean highlands are much cooler with daytime highs in the mid 70s. Nights can get pretty cool with lows around 50 degrees. The rainy season is the same, with April generally being the wettest month and June to September representing the driest period.
The Amazon region is probably much closer to what most people picture when they try to imagine a climate along the equator. Predominantly tropical lowland rainforest, it’s hot and humid with temps in the 80s and 90s and steady rainfall throughout the year.
It’s still popular among adventure travelers despite its challenging climate. The frequent showers make for excellent whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Despite being situated almost directly along the equator, the Galapagos Islands get some relief from the heat thanks to the cool Pacific waters. As result, they enjoy temps between the mid 60s and upper 80s with surprisingly little rainfall.
What Places in Ecuador Should I Visit?
Ecuador is jam-packed with natural wonders and cultural attractions. Here are some of the most popular spots that you won’t want to miss.
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Banos is the adventure capital of Ecuador. It sits at the foot of the active Volcano Tungurahua. It’s also surrounded by a number of hot spring mineral baths.
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Canoa is a beach town that hasn’t lost its appeal as primarily a laid-back fishing village.
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Cotacachi is a small village that’s only 90 minutes from the capital city of Quito. It enjoys a rich cultural heritage.
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Cuenca is a beautiful colonial city in the mountains that’s quickly becoming one of the most popular expat destinations in Latin America.
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Esmeraldas is a cozy beach town that’s a little more laid-back but still one of the country’s most popular.
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The Galapagos Islands are an archipelago scattered far off the country’s coast. Made famous by Charles Darwin, they’re visited by scientists and nature lovers from all over the world.
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Guayaquil is the largest city in Ecuador. A bustling coastal town, it’s a functioning port city with a relaxed Caribbean feel.
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Loja is another mountain town that’s growing in popularity. Smaller and more affordable, it’s known for its cultural importance and musical roots.
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Manta is a beach town that offers coastal living combined with all the big city amenities of a modern industrial city.
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Montanita is another popular beach town. Known for its surfing and nightlife, it attracts a whole host of colorful characters from all walks of life.
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Otavalo is another mountain town that has retained its quaint, authentic appeal. It’s most famous for its popular textile market.
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Quito is Ecuador’s capital city. Located in the mountains, it has a well-preserved historic district and a monument situated on the equator marking the “middle of the world.”
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Riobamba is the gateway to Mount Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak. It’s also the starting point of the famous train ride down the Nariz del Diablo.
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Salinas is a crowded beach town that’s often dubbed the Miami of Latin America. It’s popular among locals and boasts a number of water sports.
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Vilcabamba is located high in the mountains. Its water comes from melting glacier pools and is among the purest on earth, possibly contributing to the good health and longevity of its residents.
As you can tell, there’s a lot to see and do in Ecuador. It’s also one of the least expensive destinations of its kind. Now that you know how to get there, consider taking a trip to experience the sights of Ecuador firsthand.
Ecuador Fast Facts
- Population: About 15.49 million
- Typical temperature: Ecuador is known for its micro climates, learn more here.
- Major airports with U.S. flights: Quito, Cuenca and Guayaquil. Complete list of airports in Ecuador.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Quito and Guayaquil
The quaint yet lively highland town of Otavalo Ecuador is a wonderful place to visit. It’s around half an hour away from Cotacachi, and is surrounded by the Cotacachi and Imbabura mountain ranges.
Otavalo is best known for its vibrant Inca market. Not only does the market give tourists and expats a brilliant opportunity to soak up some of the Andean culture, it also sells treasures like woven wall hangings, clothing, and ornaments. The market traditions date back to pre-Inca times. Jungle traders would journey to these Andean crossroads on foot thousands of years ago in order to meet, trade, and prosper.
Today, the town has a solid cultural identity all of its own. The indigenous Otavaleños people have strong Andean roots, and are extremely proud of them. They have successfully held onto the traditions of their ancestors, and are every bit as talented textile makers and business people.
The Market in Otavalo Ecuador
In truth, Otavalo doesn’t have just one market, it has several. Just outside the town you’ll find a livestock market, where many hundreds of animals are bought and sold every week. This is where you’ll find local farmers doing what they do best: showing off their wares and bartering to make sure they get the best deal. To see this animal market in full swing, it’s best to visit first thing in the morning.
In the heart of Otavalo is the Artesania market, otherwise known as the textile and handicraft market. This is a large market that stretches the length of a network of streets, starting at the appropriately named ‘Poncho Plaza’. The first thing you’ll probably notice about the Artesania is the color of it. The textiles, clothing, and decorative items that are available are usually made of bright, inviting shades like turquoise, cerise, and gold.
Beyond the textile and handicraft market, visitors will discover the produce market. Much of this is housed within a covered market area. Along with fresh fruit and vegetables, there are also a wide range of meat stalls to choose from.
The Surrounding Countryside
Visitors to Otavalo should set aside some time to visit the city’s surrounding countryside. The Cotacachi and Imbabura volcanic mountain ranges give the area a majestic feel, and there are many beautiful sights to see.
One of these sights is the Lago de San Pablo. This clear blue lake is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and aloe vera plants. It takes about a day to hike around the lake, and there are a number of great accommodation options there. It’s also possible to enjoy water sports on the lake, along with taking in the view of the stunning Imbabura volcano.
Other natural places to visit include the Peguche Waterfall, the extinct Cerro Cayambe volcano, the Chachimbiro hot springs and the Cuichoca Lake, which is actually a deep volcanic crater.
What Else Does Otavalo Have to Offer?
The real beauty of Otavalo is that it provides visitors and residents with the very best of both worlds. The city, with its Spanish-inspired architecture and traditional culture, is only minutes away from the glorious countryside. The Andean farmland and mountainous valleys that surround the city make for a very relaxed and laid-back way of life.
As Otavalo is located near the equator, the weather in the city is close to consistent all year round. Whatever the season, you should expect to enjoy daytime temperatures of around 70ºF, with the weather dropping down to 40ºF at night.
Whether you plan to visit the town for a day or two to take in the famous market, or whether you plan to settle down and start a new life there, this is a city that will welcome you with open arms.
How Do You Get There?
Getting to Otavalo Ecuador is easy. Most people travel via Quito and Cotacachi. You can fly into Quito, and from there it’s a two hour bus ride to Cotacachi, then a further twenty minutes to Otavalo. Bus fares are very cheap in Ecuador. From Quito to Cotacachi you should only expect to pay around $6, with a couple more $s for the last leg of your journey to Otavalo.
If you’d rather take private transport, taxis are readily available. Most hotels will be happy to arrange a driver for you, and this will probably cost around $60 from Quito to Otavalo.
What are you waiting for?
Photo: Wesley & Brandon Rosenblum
Crave a small-town mountain lifestyle without the bad weather? Cotacachi, Ecuador might just be the place for you.
In the past few years, Cotacachi, only a two-hour drive north of Quito and nestled in the Ecuador Andes, has become increasingly popular with expats, especially those of retirement age.
Have you visited Cotacachi or live there? We look forward to hearing from you, leave us a comment below!
Cotacachi Ecuador. Photo by Thomas Aleto
If you could retire anywhere in the world, where would it be? Florida? Hawaii? For more and more people, especially North Americans, the answer is Cotacachi, Ecuador, a utopian town sought out for its scenic beauty, rich culture, ideal climate, and low cost of living.
Tucked between the breathtaking mountains of Volcan Imababura and Volcan Cotacachi in the Ecuadorian Andes, Cotacachi is but a ninety minute drive north from the Ecuador capitol of Quito. An artisan town, famous for their hand-crafted leather goods, Cotacachi just might be the ideal place for those that crave the small town life.
Why Cotacachi?
With so many options out there, what is it about Cotacachi, Ecuador that makes it such a popular choice for expats?
Climate
Expats are choosing to settle down in Cotacachi for many reasons, but one of the biggest appeals is the climate. Not too hot and not too cold, Cotacachi is just right with an average daytime temperature of 70-75 degrees F and an average night time temperature of 50-55 degrees F.
And because Ecuador is positioned just north of the equator at an elevation of 8,000 feet, Cotacachi will experience this ideal, spring-like climate throughout the year.
The chance to slow down
For many, Cotacachi is the perfect place to slow down and savor the simple things in life. You can hike, ride horseback, and fish, or simply head down to the local market to stock up on delicious organic food. These markets are open daily in Cotacachi, but the biggest market will always be on Sunday when the locals come out to sell everything from fruits and vegetables to hand-woven goods, spices, and freshly picked flowers.
Of course, due to its small size (the length of the village can be walked in thirty minutes) there are certain things that you won’t find in town, like major shopping centers or an exciting nightlife. But not to worry, for it is only a twenty minute drive to the nearest city, Ibarra.
Convenient location
Although Cotacachi embraces the laid-back lifestyle, away from the bustle of city life, it is in no way isolated. The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is only an hour and a half away from Cotacachi and international flights arrive in Quito daily.
So for the occasions when a small trip to the local market just won’t do, the city of Quito is there to offer all of the urban amenities you could possibly need.
Rich culture
The local people in Cotacachi, the Quichua, are a very spiritual people and they really cherish their traditions. Most of the Quichua continue to dress in colorful, traditional garb and shamanic and healing rituals are still performed on a daily basis.
In Cotacachi you can have a Shaman cleanse your aura or mix you up a custom batch of medicine to help heal your ailments.
But don’t be intimidated, for the Cotacachi locals are known to be very friendly and welcoming to expats, and you can expect to make a few new friends as they introduce you to life in their village.
Beautiful and budget friendly
Another great thing about retiring to or visiting Cotacachi, Ecuador, is the cost. The cost of living in Cotacachi is quite low and you will be able to enjoy this scenic paradise on a budget, making living in a place like Ecuador not just a dream, but for many expats, a reality.
Renting an apartment in Cotacachi can start as low as $150 per month and because the town is so small, cars aren’t necessary. Of course, if you so desire, taxis are available to whisk you around the village for little more than a dollar and a round trip bus ride to Ibarra will only cost you ninety cents.
Is Cotacachi the place for you?
So if you have been thinking of making a move down to South America, Cotacachi, Ecuador just might be the place for you. Do your research, consult a local realtor, and make a trip down to Cotachaci to see what life in this mountain village is really all about. Who knows, you may just find your new home, or at the very least, a great new place to visit.