There is a 440 m difference in elevation between the water level and the upper crater rim of Laguna del Quilotoa. In addition to volcanic formations like these, Cotopaxi Province is home to protected remnants of forest, archaeological sites and Latacunga’s cultural heritage.

Volcanic Formations and Protected Landscapes

The active Cotopaxi volcano in Parque Nacional Cotopaxi is one of the world’s highest volcanoes. The national park offers opportunities for hiking, camping and observing nature. Laguna del Quilotoa, a volcanic lake about 3 km across, lies in Chugchilán in Sigchos Canton. If you are planning activities in the national park, check the current visitor conditions in advance.

Cañón del Toachi in Sigchos Canton was formed by pyroclastic flows during eruptions of the Quilotoa volcano; the Río Toachi flows through its deep gorge. The Licamancha waterfall drops 102 m freely into the Río Toachi. It is located in a forested mountain landscape at Cañón de Agüilla, surrounded by high mountains and cliffs. The waterfall can be viewed from a suspension bridge.

Bosque Protector Sarapullo was designated a protected forest on June 26, 1986; the designation was published in the official gazette on July 30, 1986. It preserves remnants of original forests as well as remarkable natural and scenic resources. Laguna Quilindaña lies southeast of Cotopaxi volcano and is considered a natural attraction of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Archaeology and Stories of the Past

Churo de Amanta is described as a cultural expression in Chugchilán, Sigchos Canton; according to local tradition, the mountain is a pre-Hispanic Inca fortress. It features stone ruins, canals or ditches, and footpaths in some sections. Malqui y Machay is also located in Chugchilán, Sigchos Canton, and includes archaeological ruins in the late Inca style: dressed and polished stone structures, several rectangular rooms and a trapezoidal plaza. The two sites have distinct features: Churo is chiefly associated with the traditional interpretation of a fortress, while Malqui y Machay is noted for the form of its stone structures and rooms.

Latacunga: Cultural Heritage, Routes and Cuisine

Latacunga brings cultural history to the fore. La Mama Negra is considered an outstanding expression of the city’s intangible cultural heritage. Latacunga’s historic center was designated Ecuador’s sixth “Rincón Mágico” under the “Herencia Patrimonial” initiative. There are 21 tourist attractions within the designated historic center.

The Ruta de la Fiesta Patrimonial runs along streets and footpaths in the northern part of the historic center and visits heritage-listed buildings to explore the history and traditions of Latacunga Canton. If you plan to take the route, check local visitor conditions in advance. Paragliding flights from Cerro Putzalahua are also promoted as an experience in Latacunga. The takeoff area is described as being at an elevation of 738 meters and offers panoramic views.

At “Harika, la hora del chapo,” you can roast, grind, prepare and taste traditional máchica yourself. Traditional haciendas where Queso de hoja is made are also among the culinary discoveries. At local markets, you can try Ecuadorian dishes such as Chugchucaras and Allullas with Queso de hoja.

Then compare a hotel’s location with the places you plan to visit.

Discover more destinations: Latacunga, Pujilí, Huagrahuasi, Sigchos, Tanicuchi, La Maná, Carmela, Morona Santiago.

For the broader travel overview: Ecuador.