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Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve
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The Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve spans the provinces of Imbabura and Esmeraldas in northern Ecuador. Covering approximately 243,600 hectares, it is one of the most diverse protected areas in the country, encompassing ecosystems ranging from coastal tropical rainforests to high-altitude Andean páramo. A famous highlight of the reserve is the Cuicocha Lagoon, a deep volcanic crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano, noted for its two distinct lava dome islands. The reserve is home to extraordinary biodiversity, including over 500 bird species and rare mammals such as the jaguar and the spectacled bear. The region is also culturally significant as the homeland of indigenous Kichwa and Chachi communities. With an altitude range from 300 to nearly 5,000 meters above sea level, the reserve provides a unique cross-section of Ecuadorian flora and fauna. It plays a vital role in conserving endangered species within the Chocó bioregion and the tropical Andes.
- Location: Ecuador
- Nearby: San Lorenzo (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 132 | 131 | 161 | 169 | 120 | 61 | 34 | 23 | 36 | 73 | 88 | 98 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best travel time for Cotacachi-Cayapas Reserve is from June to November, when the Andes have less rain and wildlife is more active. In lower elevations, observation is possible year-round.
Best time of day
In the Andes, early morning hours are well-suited for seeing birds and mammals. In the lower rainforests, dusk is the most active period for many species. Midday often brings heat and stillness.
Etiquette
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems. Do not feed animals and avoid noise. Carry out all trash. Respect resting areas for wildlife.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing are essential due to varying altitudes. Binoculars help with birdwatching. A rain jacket and insect repellent are mandatory.
Getting there
The reserve stretches from the Andes to the Pacific coast. Main access is from Cotacachi or Otavalo towns. Roads lead to various entrances; a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended.
What to expect
Due to the vast biodiversity, it can be overwhelming, but specific sightings take time. Move slowly and listen for sounds. Each altitude level features different highlights; be open to discoveries.
Geography
Facts
- The reserve was officially established for protection in 1968.
- Cuicocha Lagoon is a volcanic crater lake featuring two interior islands.
- The total area of the reserve is approximately 243,600 hectares.
- Its elevation ranges from 300 meters to 4,939 meters at the peak.
- The area is home to over 500 distinct bird species.
- It protects a critical part of the endangered Chocó rainforest.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the most famous sight in the reserve?
The Laguna de Cuicocha, a beautiful crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi volcano.
How do you get to Cuicocha?
From Otavalo or Cotacachi, you can easily take a taxi or bus to the entrance.
Are there hiking trails around the lake?
Yes, there is a hiking trail about 12 km long that goes around the entire crater rim.
Can you take boat trips on the lake?
Yes, small motorboat trips are offered to the islands in the middle of the lake.
Is there an entrance fee for the reserve?
Entrance to state nature reserves in Ecuador is free for tourists.
Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve: where is it located?
Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve is located in Ecuador.
Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve: why is it worth visiting?
The Cotacachi Cayapas Ecological Reserve spans the provinces of Imbabura and Esmeraldas in northern Ecuador.
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Nearby cities
Ibarra
The white city is appreciated for its colonial white facades and pleasant climate.
Otavalo
The indigenous capital of Ecuador, known worldwide for its colorful craft market.
Atuntaqui
The textile capital of Ecuador, where craftsmanship and industry meet.
Cotacachi
A peaceful Andean town globally famous for its fine leather goods and stunning crater lake.
San Lorenzo
A port city near the Colombian border, surrounded by pristine mangrove forests.
Quito
The high-altitude capital of Ecuador, known for its well-preserved colonial historic center.
Saquisilí
Saquisilí is an authentic Andean town famous for hosting one of the most vibrant and expansive indigenous markets in Ecuador every Thursday.
Sangolquí
A quiet suburb of Quito, famous for its traditional pork dish Hornado.
Latacunga
A colonial town near the Cotopaxi volcano, known for the Mama Negra festival.
History & landmarks
Temple of the Fatherland
A massive museum and monument on the slopes of Pichincha, where the decisive battle for Ecuador's independence took place.
Quito Cable Car
One of the highest aerial lifts in the world, taking visitors from the city center up the slopes of the Pichincha Volcano.
Rodrigo Paz Delgado Stadium
This modern stadium, colloquially called Casa Blanca, is home to LDU Quito and often hosts the national team.
Atahualpa Olympic Stadium
The traditional sports stadium in the heart of Quito, which witnessed historical triumphs of the Ecuadorian national football team.
Pujilí
Pujilí is a picturesque town in the Cotopaxi province, renowned for its indigenous markets and vibrant Corpus Christi celebrations.
Cross of Ilaló
A monumental iron cross on the extinct Ilaló volcano, illuminated at night and visible from the Tumbaco and Los Chillos valleys.
Nature
Cuicocha Lake
Cuicocha is a stunning crater lake at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano, featuring two small islands in its center.
Lake San Pablo
Lake San Pablo is Ecuador's largest lake, situated at the foot of the majestic Imbabura Volcano near Otavalo.
Yahuarcocha
Yahuarcocha is a historically significant lake surrounded by legends of a great battle, now featuring a famous auto racing track.
More places
Mojanda Complex
An inactive stratovolcano system in the northern Andes featuring three beautiful high-altitude crater lakes.
Parque Cóndor
A rescue center for birds of prey near Otavalo, dedicated to the protection of the Andean condor.
Imbabura Volcano
A dormant stratovolcano towering majestically over Lake San Pablo in the northern Andes.
Maquipucuna Cloud Forest
A private reserve famous for its dense cloud forest and spectacled bear population.
Tulipe
An archaeological center featuring structures of the Yumbo culture, known for its sunken pools.
Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve
A protected area known for its orchid diversity and countless hummingbird species.
Mindo Cloud Forest
The Mindo Cloud Forest in the Andean valleys is a global birdwatching hub, famous for its many hummingbird species and orchids.
Pichincha
Pichincha is an active stratovolcano that rises directly above the capital city of Quito, consisting of several peaks.