El Corazón del Imbabura: A Natural Gem in Otavalo
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of El Corazón del Imbabura, a national reserve in the heart of the Andean highlands.
Nestled in the heart of the Andean highlands, El Corazón del Imbabura is a stunning national reserve that offers visitors breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a unique cultural experience. This enchanting location is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the picturesque surroundings of Otavalo. With its rich biodiversity and stunning vistas, El Corazón del Imbabura is a must-visit destination for those exploring Ecuador.
A brief summary to El Corazón del Imbabura
- 6QMW+V84, Otavalo, EC
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trails can be rugged.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit as conditions can change rapidly in the highlands.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the local ecology.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from the center of Otavalo. From Plaza de los Ponchos, head southeast on Calle Bolívar towards Calle Sucre. Turn right onto Calle Sucre and continue straight until you reach the main road (E28). Turn left onto E28 and follow the signs towards Ibarra. After approximately 10 km, take the exit towards Otavalo (E28). Follow the road until you see the signs for El Corazón del Imbabura. The exact location is at coordinates 0.2346469, -78.2041573. Look for the parking area nearby.
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Public Transportation
To reach El Corazón del Imbabura via public transport, start at the Otavalo bus terminal (Terminal Terrestre de Otavalo). Take a bus heading towards Ibarra. The fare is usually around $1.50. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at the stop for El Corazón del Imbabura, which is approximately a 30-minute ride. After you get off, you may have to walk a short distance (about 1 km) to reach the entrance of the reserve. Follow the signs along the way.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from Otavalo to El Corazón del Imbabura. You can find taxis at the main square or order one through a local app. The fare for a taxi ride should be around $10-$15 depending on negotiation and traffic. The driver will take you directly to the location, which is approximately 15 km from Otavalo.
Discover more about El Corazón del Imbabura
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cabañas del Lago
2.8 km
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Tahuantinsuyo Weaving Workshop
3.4 km
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Parque del Condor
4.0 km
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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
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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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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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Balcon De Imbabura
6.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Quinchuquí, Otavalo, Ecuador
2.6 km
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Área Libre Lago San Pablo
2.6 km
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Parque Acuático San Pablo
3.2 km
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Laguna de San Pablo
3.6 km
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Lago San Pablo
3.6 km
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Laguna San Pablo
3.6 km
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Imbabura Volcano
3.8 km
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Lago San Pablo Park
3.8 km
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Condor Park
4.0 km
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Cascada De Peguche Area De Camping
4.0 km
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Muelle Lago San Pablo
4.3 km
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Inti Watana - Calendario Solar
4.3 km
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Peguche Waterfall
4.4 km
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San Pablo Del Lago Tours
4.4 km
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Parqueadero Cascadas De Peguche
4.4 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
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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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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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Artesanias Otavalo
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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