Discover the Majestic Cotacachi Cayapas Reserve
Explore the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas, a stunning national park in Ecuador.
Nestled in the heart of Ecuador, the Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas is a breathtaking national park that showcases stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this park offers numerous trails, picturesque lagoons, and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.
A brief summary to Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to witness the park's wildlife at its most active.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are few facilities within the park.
- Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes throughout the day.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the area's ecology.
- Capture the sunset over Cotacachi lagoon for an unforgettable photo opportunity.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, take the road towards Sucumbíos. Follow the signs for the E45 road. Your route will take you through beautiful landscapes. Once you reach the town of Ibarra, follow signs to Cotacachi. Continue on the E45 until you reach the Cotacachi Cayapas Reserve entrance. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, as some roads may be unpaved.
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Public Transportation
To reach Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas via public transportation, take a bus from Cuyabeno to Ibarra. The bus ride will take approximately 4-5 hours and cost around $5-$7. Once in Ibarra, transfer to a bus heading to Cotacachi. This leg of the journey should take about 30 minutes and cost around $1. Upon arriving in Cotacachi, you can take a taxi or arrange for a tour to take you to the reserve entrance.
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Taxi
If you are in Cotacachi, you can hire a taxi to take you to Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas. This trip will take approximately 20-30 minutes and should cost around $10-$15, depending on your negotiation skills and the taxi service's rates.
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Guided Tour
Consider booking a guided tour from either Cuyabeno or Cotacachi that includes transportation to Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas. This is often the easiest option as it includes all necessary travel arrangements and usually costs between $50-$100 per person, depending on the tour package and inclusions.
Discover more about Reserva Cotacachi Cayapas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mirador Balcón de Intag
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Pacheco Farmhouse - Intag Valley
25.6 km
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COLUMPIO VUELO DE LA LIBERTAD
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Termas Nangulvi
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Hacienda San Isidro de Iltaqui
43.5 km
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San Alfonso de Iruguincho
43.6 km
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Hacienda San Francisco
45.4 km
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Historia del Rock y Metal Imbabureño
47.1 km
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La Mirage Garden Hotel And Spa
47.2 km
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Tumbabiro
47.5 km
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Hoppy Alpaca Hostel
48.0 km
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Hosteria y Spa Pantavi
48.4 km
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Montaña de Luz
48.7 km
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Las Palmeras Inn
50.8 km
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Gualchan
51.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cloud Forest Farm Stay
14.1 km
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Casa del árbol "Intag"
24.6 km
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Laguna Cuicocha
39.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Cuicocha, a volcanic lake in the Andes, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature immersion.
Cuicocha Lake
40.4 km
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Cuicocha
40.4 km
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Cuicocha Lagoon Day Tour
40.8 km
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Urbina
41.6 km
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San Miguel de Moraspungo
43.2 km
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Catedral La Matriz de Cotacachi
47.7 km
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Parque Central de Cotacachi.
47.7 km
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Santa Lucia Cloud Forest Ecolodge - Reserve Santa Lucia
48.3 km
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Finca Santo Domingo
48.3 km
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Iglesia Católica San José de Quichinche
50.2 km
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SAN JOSE DE QUICHINCHE
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Hacienda Pinsaqui
51.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante "El Leñador"
47.5 km
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Solid Rock Restaurante
47.7 km
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El Meson de Pedro
47.8 km
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El Foráneo Resto & Drinks
48.8 km
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Cerveza Artesanal Fortaleza
51.3 km
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Garnish Otavalo
51.5 km
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El Cortijo Chaltura
52.1 km
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La Colina Restaurante
52.2 km
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Chupate La Pata
52.2 km
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La Casa de Mamá
52.4 km
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Cafe Pachamama
52.4 km
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mi viejo cafe restaurante - juan carlos aulestia - miviejocafebr@hotmail.com
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Brissa Marisqueria Otavalo
52.7 km
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Como En Casa Restaurant
52.7 km
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CHIMICHANGA RESTAURANTE &TEQUILA
52.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Koi Desserts
47.7 km
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CASA TOISAN
47.9 km
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Sacha Instrumentos Andinos Otavalo
52.3 km
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Fábrica de sombreros HOREB
52.4 km
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EL MUNDO DE NAOMI
52.4 km
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Mercado Municipal 24 De Mayo
52.5 km
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ecuafibras otavalo
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Artesanías Males
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Peguches'art
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Shungo Importadora Textil
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Maderas del Oriente
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Etnia & Tricolana
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Artesanias Mayumi
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cheers Restaurant and Bar
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Oneshot
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Bar Restaurant Spicy
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ShotUp
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A&T POOL BAR KARAOKE
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Ninkasi brewery, Cerveza Artesanal
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Bîgotte Bistro & Lounge
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The Red Pub Otavalo
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Shungo Bar Restaurante
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Terrapalma Bar - Restaurant
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Bar Karaoke Eclipse
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