Discover the Natural Wonders of El Corazón del Imbabura
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of El Corazón del Imbabura, a national reserve that offers adventure and cultural immersion in Ecuador.
El Corazón del Imbabura is a breathtaking national reserve in Otavalo, Ecuador, renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cultural heritage. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike!
A brief summary to El Corazón del Imbabura
- 6QMW+V84, Otavalo, EC
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing and to enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the reserve are limited.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the area's ecology and culture.
- Dress in layers; temperatures can change rapidly in the mountains.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from Otavalo, which is a well-known city in the Imbabura Region. Head south on the Pan-American Highway (E35) from the center of Otavalo. Continue for approximately 10 kilometers until you reach the town of La Esperanza. Look for signs indicating El Corazón del Imbabura. Turn left onto the road leading to the national reserve. Follow this road for about 5 kilometers, where you'll find the entrance to El Corazón del Imbabura. There is no entry fee to access the reserve.
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Public Transportation
To reach El Corazón del Imbabura via public transportation, start by taking a bus from Otavalo to La Esperanza. Buses leave frequently from the main bus terminal in Otavalo and the fare is usually around $0.50. Once you arrive in La Esperanza, you can either walk approximately 5 kilometers to the national reserve or negotiate a local taxi for about $3. Taxis are available near the bus stop. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
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Walking
For the adventurous, if you are already in La Esperanza, you can walk to El Corazón del Imbabura. The walk is about 5 kilometers and takes approximately 1-1.5 hours. Follow the main road leading from La Esperanza towards the reserve. Enjoy the scenic views along the way; just be cautious of traffic.
Discover more about El Corazón del Imbabura
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cabañas del Lago
2.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cabañas del Lago, a lakeside haven in Ecuador perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning landscapes.
Tahuantinsuyo Weaving Workshop
3.4 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Ecuadorian textiles at Tahuantinsuyo Weaving Workshop in Otavalo, where culture and artistry come alive.
Laguna San Pablo
3.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Laguna San Pablo, a stunning lake in Ecuador surrounded by majestic mountains and rich indigenous culture.
Hostal Aya Huma
4.9 km
Discover the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Otavalo while enjoying a cozy stay at Hostal Aya Huma, your gateway to Ecuador's rich heritage.
Puertolago Country Inn & Resort
5.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Lago San Pablo at Puertolago Country Inn & Resort, your perfect getaway in the heart of Ecuador's Andes.
Hacienda Cusín
5.1 km
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Puerto Lago Lago San Pablo
5.1 km
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The Traveler Hostel
5.8 km
Experience the heart of Otavalo at The Traveler Hostel, where comfort meets adventure in a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.
Otavalo Bus Terminal
6.1 km
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HOSTAL LA ROSA OTAVALO
6.3 km
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Otavalo Park
6.3 km
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TravelArtWay
6.3 km
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Pizza Soberana
6.4 km
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La Cosecha Coffee & Bakery
6.4 km
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Coordenadas Inmueble
6.4 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Quinchuquí, Otavalo, Ecuador
2.6 km
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Laguna de San Pablo
3.6 km
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Imbabura Volcano
3.8 km
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Condor Park
4.0 km
Discover the wonders of Ecuador's avian wildlife at Condor Park, a premier destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts in Otavalo.
Inti Watana - Calendario Solar
4.3 km
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Peguche Waterfall
4.4 km
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Parqueadero Cascadas De Peguche
4.4 km
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Artesanía El Gran Cóndor
4.7 km
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El Lechero
4.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich culture at El Lechero, a must-visit observation deck in Otavalo, Ecuador.
San Pablo del Lago
5.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich culture of San Pablo del Lago, a serene lakeside gem nestled in the heart of Ecuadorian Andes.
San Sebastián Park
5.6 km
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El Colibrí
6.2 km
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Volcán Imbabura
6.3 km
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Otavalo
6.3 km
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Peguche
6.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Restaurante Elenita
5.6 km
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LA BRASA TULCAN
5.9 km
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El Chonero Restaurante Otavalo
5.9 km
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Las Delicias De Mi Tierra
5.9 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian seafood at Las Delicias De Mi Tierra in Otavalo - where fresh ingredients meet rich culinary tradition.
100% Chonero
6.0 km
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aLabuena Bar & Lounge Otavalo
6.0 km
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Leyre Restaurante
6.0 km
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LOS DANZANTESBR
6.1 km
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La Covacha de la Bolivar
6.2 km
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Casa Farol Restaurante
6.2 km
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Restaurante Casa de Angie
6.2 km
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Ganbaru Restaurant
6.3 km
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La nona deli
6.3 km
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Piadina
6.3 km
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mi viejo cafe restaurante - juan carlos aulestia - miviejocafebr@hotmail.com
6.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
New Animal Market
4.0 km
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Taller Artesanal Peguche Wasi
5.2 km
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Bazar del sábado
5.8 km
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KLAYART (alpargatas y Joyería Artesanal)
6.1 km
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Princess Bisuteria
6.1 km
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Family Boutique Market
6.2 km
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Sombreros Shaman
6.2 km
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Joseph STORE
6.2 km
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TAYTA WASI (Specialty Coffee & Meeting Space)
6.3 km
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YARIK'S BOUTIQUE
6.3 km
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Glamour Boutique
6.3 km
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ecuafibras otavalo
6.3 km
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Shaddai Original
6.3 km
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Victoria Boutique Otavalo
6.4 km
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AYAMARKA
6.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
A&T POOL BAR KARAOKE
5.8 km
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Bar Karaoke Eclipse
5.9 km
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Bar Restaurant Spicy
6.1 km
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KARLAS LICOR BAR
6.3 km
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ShotUp
6.3 km
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Dublin Irish pub Otavalo
6.4 km
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La Guarida del duende
6.5 km
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Latitud Cero Cerveza Artesanal
6.5 km
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Johnny Walker Otavalo
6.5 km
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CRYPTOBEER
6.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and craft beer selection at CRYPTOBEER, the must-visit bar in Otavalo for tourists seeking local flavor.
Terrapalma Bar - Restaurant
6.5 km
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Ninkasi brewery, Cerveza Artesanal
6.5 km
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Chivos Bar El callejón 24/7...
6.5 km
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Shungo Bar Restaurante
6.6 km
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The Red Pub Otavalo
6.6 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
OPIUM CLUB
6.3 km
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Zona rosa otavalo
6.3 km
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ISABELLA
6.3 km
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Jampa Club
6.4 km
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Living Club Otavalo
6.4 km
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Soon Discotek
6.4 km
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SOHO Disco Concert
6.4 km
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ALCATRAZ
6.4 km
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Acropolis Discotek
6.4 km
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Chongo en Corto
6.8 km
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Night Club Arenas
9.5 km
Discover the liberating nightlife of Cotacachi at Night Club Arenas, a vibrant nudist club embracing freedom and self-expression.
ASOPRAN
14.1 km
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Añoranzas Disco Bar
14.2 km
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LA 8VA MARAVILLA
14.8 km
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BUNKER
15.3 km
Dive into Ibarra's nightlife at BUNKER - a thrilling disco club with energetic music, karaoke, and a lively atmosphere.
