Tag Archive for: Cotacachi Ecuador

Cotacachi Ecuador Pros & Cons

Nestled amidst the majestic landscapes of Ecuador, Cotacachi emerges as a destination that’s loved by travelers and expats alike.

Whether you’re intrigued by its affordability, captivated by its culinary delights, or drawn to its tranquil beauty, Cotacachi promises an experience like no other.

Before you embark on this journey, let’s dive into what makes this place truly enchanting, and also touch upon a few aspects that might require a bit of acclimation. Here are the pros & cons of Cotacachi, Ecuador.

Watch Our Video About the Pros & Cons of Cotacachi Ecuador

Affordability: Live More, Spend Less

Cotacachi offers a lower cost of living that is especially evident in areas like:

  • Housing: Though it’s the priciest aspect of living here, it’s still more affordable than the coast and other big cities in Ecuador like Quito and Guayaquil.
  • Utilities: Say goodbye to expensive electricity bills. The temperate climate means there’s no need for heat or air conditioning.
  • Local Markets: The Mercados teem with fresh, locally-grown produce at prices that won’t break the bank.

A Culinary Journey: Restaurants Galore

From local delicacies to international flavors, Cotacachi is a haven for foodies. Some must-visit spots include:

What’s more, the city layout ensures that most of these gastronomic wonders are just a short walk away. And for caffeine aficionados, the town brims with cozy coffee shops.

Activities Aplenty: Never a Dull Moment

There’s a plethora of activities to indulge in:

  • Join the expat meetups.
  • Embark on invigorating hikes.
  • Plan day trips to nearby attractions like Laguna Cuicocha, Peguche, Lago San Pablo, Otavalo, Cayambe, and Ibarra.
  • Volunteer for local initiatives to help dogs, kids, and the elderly.
  • Immerse yourself in bird watching or photography.

Safety First: Peaceful Living

Cotacachi is tranquilo. Its safety features include:

  • Low crime rates.
  • A community-centric environment brimming with locals and indigenous folks.
  • A tendency to wind down early, making late-night activities sparse.

Retail Therapy: Shop ’til You Drop

From high-end boutiques to mom-and-pop stores, shopping here is an experience:

  • Find budget-friendly gems like the local’s favorite shoe stores.
  • Weekly organic markets offer fresh produce.
  • Tia and the Mercado provide daily necessities.
  • The world-famous Otavalo Indigenous market is a one-stop shop for everything you can imagine.
  • And yes, there are ATMs dotted around town for convenience.
 

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Expat Haven: Find Your Tribe

The burgeoning expat community is a testament to Cotacachi’s appeal:

  • Fellow expats are always eager to assist newcomers.
  • With many English speakers, communication is a breeze.

Nature’s Best: Beauty Everywhere

Cotacachi is a portrait of pristine beauty:

  • Clean streets and fresh air.
  • Mesmerizing views of the Cotacachi and Imbabura volcanos.
  • A plethora of bird species around town and in the nearby natural areas.

Commute Simplified: Get Around with Ease

Navigating Cotacachi is straightforward:

  • Most places are just a stroll away.
  • Buses and taxis are readily available at the bus station and the taxi stop next to Parque Central in the center of town.
  • It’s a 10-minute drive to Otavalo and 90 minutes to the Quito airport.

The Flip Side: A Few Cons

Every rose has its thorn, and Cotacachi is no exception:

  • At 8,000 feet / 2,400 meters, its high elevation can be challenging for some.
  • The weather tends to be on the cooler, cloudier side like Seattle in the early fall.
  • Medical facilities are limited, with just a small private clinic and an IESS hospital to cater to health needs. If you need any serious medical care or specialists, you might need to drive to Quito.
  • It’s a small mountain town with around 9,000 people so its size might not be suitable, especially if you prefer a bigger city.

Final Thoughts…

Our adventures through Cotacachi, Ecuador have unveiled a destination rich in culture, beauty, and community spirit. This gem of Ecuador beautifully encapsulates the reasons why so many are drawn to its vibrant streets and serene landscapes.

Whether you’re considering a brief visit or pondering a longer stay, Cotacachi promises memories to cherish and experiences to relish.

As we continue our journey, remember that the heart of exploration lies in the stories we gather and the connections we forge. Dive into Cotacachi and discover your own story.

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DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Cuenca vs Cotacachi Ecuador Comparison: Finding the Perfect Expat Haven in Ecuador

Cuenca and Cotacachi Ecuador are two popular destinations for expats in Ecuador, each offering unique experiences and lifestyles.

In this article, we’ll compare the two cities and help you decide which one is right for you. Let’s dive in!

Common Characteristics

Cuenca vs Cotacachi

Both Cuenca and Cotacachi are expat-friendly, situated at higher elevations, and offer affordable living costs.

They boast clean environments, proximity to nature and hiking trails, and share similar aspects in terms of safety, nature, expat communities, shopping, restaurants, weather, elevation, and walkability.

Cotacachi Ecuador – The Serene Small Town

Cotacachi is perfect for those who prefer a small-town atmosphere, with an extremely safe and quiet environment.

The town is home to an older population and has a nice variety of restaurants catering to different tastes.

There is a large expat community, especially given the small size of the town, and every Thursday you can enjoy an organic market offering fresh produce from local farmers.

Cotacachi is a 1.5-hour drive from the Quito airport and just 25 minutes from the Ibarra Supermaxi. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Otavalo, which offers more amenities and hosts one of the world’s most famous markets.

 

Nestled close to the mountains, Cotacachi provides ample shopping options. However, the town has fewer activities, and healthcare facilities are limited to small health clinics.

During national strikes (paros), the only road in and out of the town can be blocked.

 

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Cuenca – The Vibrant City Life

Cuenca is a larger city with numerous parks and walking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.48 Hours In Cuenca Ecuador Things To Do

The city has a LOT of great restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, large mercados and small neighborhood mercaditos.

Cuenca has an array of excellent and affordable healthcare options, and a lot of expats travel to Cuenca from other parts of Ecuador for medical procedures.

The expat community is much larger than Cotacachi. In fact, it’s estimated that about 10,000 expats live in Cuenca, which is larger than the entire population of Cotacachi. Cuenca has a population of roughly 500,000 so the expats still make up a small percentage.

However, with more expats and several universities, there are also more English speakers in Cuenca, including English-speaking Ecuadorians.

Public transportation is efficient, and Cuenca has its own airport with daily flights to Quito.

The city is rich in culture, with lots of museums and cultural activities for residents to enjoy.

The major drawback of Cuenca is the weather, which can be colder and rainier, and the road to Guayaquil through Cajas is often closed due to heavy rain and landslides.

The city is also a lot noisier than Cotacachi, which is very quiet at night starting around 9PM.

While crime is mostly limited to petty theft, it has increased lately.

Like Cotacachi, Cuenca can also get cut off from the rest of the country during paros.

Final Thoughts

Cuenca and Cotacachi both have their unique charms, and the choice depends on your personal preferences.

If you want a quieter, small-town atmosphere, Cotacachi is the perfect choice. However, if you prefer a more vibrant city life with better healthcare options and cultural activities, Cuenca might be the right fit for you.

Ultimately, both destinations have thriving expat communities, making either one an excellent choice for your new home in Ecuador.

Watch Our Video Comparing Cuenca and Cotacachi Ecuador

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Cotacachi Ecuador vs Ajijic Mexico (Pros & Cons)

Are you considering a move to Mexico or Ecuador and wondering which expat destination to choose? Both countries have plenty of options, but two towns that stand out are Ajijic in Mexico and Cotacachi in Ecuador.

These two picturesque mountain towns have a lot in common, but also some unique features that may sway your decision. In this article, we’ll compare the pros and cons of living in each town.

Ajijic Mexico Pros & Cons

Ajijic Mexico Centro ChapelAjijic is a picturesque mountain town on the shore of Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest lake. The town is located about an hour south of Guadalajara and is close to major cities and airports.

The area is popular with expats because of its incredible views, walkability, variety of restaurants, and outdoor activities.

The town is home to a large number of foreign residents, which means there are many perks available to them, but also a few downsides caused by its extreme popularity.

Ajijic Mexico Pros

  • Beautiful, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Lakeside location
  • Comfortable year-round climate with lower elevation at 5,000 feet
  • 30-minute drive to the international airport in Guadalajara
  • Lots of expat amenities and English-speaking locals
  • Great for retirees
  • Plenty of shopping options, including Walmart and grocery stores
  • Nightlife options available

Ajijic Mexico Cons

  • Housing is expensive
  • Very populated and touristy
  • Can feel like “America-lite”
 

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Cotacachi Ecuador Pros & Cons

Cotacachi is a picturesque mountain town located about 90 minutes north of Quito, the capital of Ecuador. It has a population of around 9,000 people, and a lot of them are expats. Cotacachi is also close to major cities and airports and has incredible views and a variety of outdoor activities.

Situated between two inactive volcanoes, the town is small, clean, and quiet, making it feel more authentic than Ajijic. The town is also close to world-famous shopping at the Otavalo market and has a supportive group of expats. However, it doesn’t have major medical facilities, and the full grocery store is 30 minutes away in Ibarra.

Cotacachi Ecuador Pros

  • Small, clean, and quiet
  • Located in a picturesque mountain setting with incredible views
  • Close to world-famous shopping at Otavalo market
  • Hiking and outdoor activities available
  • Supportive group of expats
  • One of the most affordable cities in Ecuador
  • Weekly organic market
  • Quito is 1.5 hours away

Cotacachi Ecuador Cons

  • High elevation can be a challenge for some
  • Cool temperatures and rainy climate
  • Major medical facilities are not available in town
  • Airport is 1.5 hours away
  • Longer, more expensive flights back to the US
  • Not many nightlife options available

Conclusion

When deciding between Ajijic and Cotacachi, it comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for a small community with cooler temperatures, Cotacachi may be the right fit for you. The town is more affordable than Ajijic, and it feels very authentic. On the other hand, if you have a larger budget and want to be closer to the US with a warmer climate and plenty of expat amenities, Ajijic may be the perfect fit.

Watch Our Comparison Video About Cotacachi and Ajijic

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Cotacachi Ecuador Real Estate Tour

Cotacachi is a charming town located in the Andean region of Ecuador that has been drawing the attention of expats and real estate investors from all over the world.Amazing Homes in Cotacachi Ecuador

Its strategic location, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture make it an ideal place for those looking for a second home, a retirement destination, or an investment opportunity.

One of the most appealing aspects of Cotacachi is its affordability. Real estate prices in Cotacachi are significantly lower than in other popular destinations in Ecuador, such as Quito or Cuenca.

This means that you can find a beautiful house with stunning views and plenty of space for a fraction of the cost of a comparable property in the United States or Europe.

Make sure to watch our Cotacachi Neighborhoods video where we give you a taste of what this charming town has to offer.

Amy Prisco our trusted real estate agent was kind enough to show us several for-sale properties in the area again.

Cotacachi Ecuador Real Estate Tour

One of the properties currently on the market is a beautiful four-bedroom, four-bathroom house with a large garden and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It features high-quality finishes, a modern design, and all the amenities you need to enjoy a comfortable and peaceful lifestyle.

Another great property available in Cotacachi is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house with an open-concept living area and a beautiful fireplace. It is located in a quiet and secure neighborhood, just a few minutes away from the town center, and offers breathtaking views of the Imbabura volcano.

Overall, Cotacachi offers a unique opportunity for expats and real estate investors who are looking for affordable properties in a beautiful and culturally rich location.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment, a spacious villa, or a charming country home, Amy and her team, can help you find the perfect property to suit your needs and budget.

Watch Our Cotacachi Real Estate Tour

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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The Panoramic Beauty of Cotacachi Ecuador

We recently visited Cotacachi, Ecuador to film a real estate tour for our YouTube channel. This picturesque mountain town is truly mesmerizing and we always enjoy our time there!

Cotacachi EcuadorNestled between two inactive volcanoes, Cotacachi and Imbabura, the views are simply stunning with clouds forming over the top of the volcanoes. The town is walkable and incredibly clean with bike lanes making it even easier to explore.

The town has many restaurants and coffee shops, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the local cuisine. It’s also a great place for window shopping, with numerous stores selling handmade items and artisanal crafts.

In the center of town, Parque Central is a highlight with its beautiful old church, large palm trees, and colorful flowers. Parque San Francisco also has a church and often vendors selling food and crafts.

Cotacachi is a popular destination for expats from the US and Canada because of its affordability and high quality of life for a low cost of living. We can see why they have chosen to make this town their home, as it truly offers everything you could need in a peaceful and beautiful setting.

Overall, we had a fantastic time in Cotacachi and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a charming and affordable mountain town with breathtaking views.

Watch Our Video About the Pros & Cons of Cotacachi Ecuador

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Why Expats Love Cotacachi Ecuador (mostly)

Cotacachi, Ecuador, is one of the most popular cities in Ecuador among expats. It’s a small, slowly growing and developing town in the Andes Mountains gaining popularity for its rich culture, climate, low cost of living, and scenic beauty.

Tucked between Volcan Cotacachi and Volcan Imbabura mountains, Cotacachi, Ecuador, is the ideal expat destination for several reasons. Individuals and families looking to enjoy the pleasures of small-town life will love this location.

If you are wondering whether you should retire or move to Cotacachi, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of this town to help you make an informed decision regarding your new life abroad.

Pros of Visiting/ Moving to Cotacachi, Ecuador

Also called the “City of Peace,” Cotacachi, Ecuador offers tranquility and serenity at its best. Here are some advantages of moving to a small, hidden town with a casual, low-key reputation.

1. Affordable

1. Affordable

Ecuador is a generally affordable country with a low cost of living. Affordability is particularly at a peak in smaller towns, including Cotacachi. It is the perfect location for expats and retirees on a budget.

For example, the pleasant year-round weather in Cotacachi, Ecuador, eliminates the expense of a heating system in the house. That way, you can save money on your electricity bills. Similarly, you can buy locally-grown produce at mercados to avoid expensive grocery shopping.

Although monthly expenses largely depend on personal needs, managing finances in Cotacachi is not usually a struggle for expats. You can enjoy the scenic paradise on a low budget for the rest of your life, living a dream.

While everything is budget-friendly in this Ecuador town, real estate is the most significant variable. The housing may be expensive, though you can easily find affordable apartments and homes for your family. For instance, local builders offer appealing condos and houses for foreign retirees and expats.

2. Lots of Restaurants

2. Lots of Restaurants

While many expats overlook this consideration, understanding the importance of cuisine is essential. You cannot enjoy your time in a country that does not offer a variety of food. Ecuador is diverse when it comes to cuisine.

Throughout Cotacachi, you can find a vast variety of local and international cuisine. The town’s expat community cannot stop raving about their love for Cotacachi’s ethnic restaurants serving cheap and delectable food.

Many restaurants, like Vandanam Indian, have a “menu del dia” or “almuerzo”  consisting of a  salad, soup, main course, dessert, and beverage. Eateries in Cotacachi, Ecuador, are almost cheaper than cooking at home.

There are also cozy cafes and coffee places like Rio Intag Café, Red Rabbit Coffee Lounge, and Café Roma offer welcoming spots to relax and hang out with friends or family.

3. Fun and Exciting Activities

3. Fun and Exciting Activities

Cotacachi, Ecuador, maybe a small town, but it offers a lot to visitors, expats, and retirees.

Even with its slow pace and relaxed vibes, the town does not disappoint social and outgoing people. Cotacachi may be the ideal location for such people. Making friends and having a fun and exciting time are easy tasks here. While the locals make great friends, you can join expat meet-ups to interact with people with similar stories.

Festivals and parades occur throughout the year, and expats can participate alone or with their family/ friends. If you like exploring new places, Cotacachi offers plenty of fun day trips you can choose from. Similarly, you can indulge in physical activity by hiking around the rim.

Bird watching is another popular activity in Cotacachi, Ecuador, while you can also try photography at horse processions and other events.

4. Safety

4. Safe

Cotacachi, Ecuador, is home to several hundred expats. Each expat can vouch for the town’s safety, among other benefits. The crime rate is generally low, even at night. Cotacachi is not a late-night community, reducing the risk of petty crimes like snatching and theft.

The little mountain village has a population of 9,000, and approximately 45 indigenous communities live in the surrounding countryside areas. Unlike other expat locations in Ecuador, over half of the Cotacachi population is indigenous. That is another reason why people are friendly and caring.

5. Shopping Opportunities

5. Shopping Opportunities

You will love Cotacachi if you are an outgoing person who enjoys shopping. Cotacachi offers many shopping opportunities for visitors, locals, and expats/ retirees.

This Ecuadorian expat location has everything from affordable groceries to high-end goods. For example, Sunday is a market day in the mountain village when you can find various items, including fresh vegetables and fruits, flowers, and ground spices. There is a weekly organic market that is excellent for fresh produce.

In addition, the local stores are full of great-value products, including shoes, garments, woven baskets, etc. The mercado and Otavalo Market are ideal places to find affordable and quality products. You can also find high-end textiles from local artisans to decorate your new home as an expat. There are also small mom-and-pop stores scattered throughout the town.

6. Large Expat Community

The entire country of Ecuador has become an expat magnet in recent years. While several Ecuadorian towns are home to many foreign retirees and expats, Cotacachi has one of largest expat populations.

The town in the Northern Sierra’s central location has a very active expat community. Foreigners continue to pick Cotacachi for relocation, given its fantastic benefits. The low living costs, scenic landscape, and pleasant climate are a few of the top reasons expats choose to locate here.

Cotacachi is excellent if you want to minimize cultural shock and make your move as smooth as possible. The welcoming expat community will ensure a comfortable transition, helping you adjust and settle quickly.

Not to mention, a large expat community means you can find many people who speak English.

7. Beautiful and Clean

7. Beautiful and Clean

Cotacachi is true to its reputation of being a beautiful and clean Ecuadorian town. You will never find the peaceful village’s plazas dirty; they are always kept tidy. That may be why you will not find any pesky insects in the town.

While the clean buildings and streets are compelling, the fresh air keeps expats flocking to Cotacachi. Families enjoy the cool and crisp air, sitting amidst an abundance of palm and eucalyptus trees. Given the stunning scenery and perfect weather, it may be the cleanest and most scenic town in Ecuador.

What is the best part? Two majestic mountain ranges flank Cotacachi, and you can see several volcanoes, including Volcan Pichincha and Volcan Cotacachi. The clean environment calls for different bird species to make homes in the town. The birds add to Cotacachi’s natural beauty.

8. Easy to Get Around

8. Easy to Get Around

Cotacachi’s nice weather makes it an excellent place in terms of health, but the greenery and fresh air are not the only things that can help improve your health. Cotacachi is a walkable town, thanks to its small size, clean streets and roads, and safety.

Whether it is grocery shopping, meetups with friends, or errands, you can walk to the location. Many Cotacachi expats and visitors lose excess weight only after a few months in the town.

That said, Cotacachi also offers reliable transport, including plenty of buses and taxis. Traveling around and outside the mountain village is easy- it only takes ten minutes to go to the Otavalo commercial area and one-and-a-half hours to reach the Quito airport!

Cons of Visiting/ Moving to Cotacachi, Ecuador

Cotacachi, Ecuador, is the perfect expat destination if you enjoy the natural beauty and a casual, laid-back lifestyle. The Ecuadorian town is also safe, easy to get around, and offers many activities.

However, you might not like a few things about Cotacachi. Here are a few advantages of relocating to Cotacachi, Ecuador.

1. High Elevation

1. High Elevation

You probably love mountain living if you enjoy peace and quiet. However, not everyone prefers making a home in a town at a high altitude. Although the untouched nature of a mountainous area may want you to live there forever, it has drawbacks.

Cotacachi, Ecuador, is situated at 2400 meters/ 7900 feet above sea level. You must be prepared to experience an entirely different life if you plan to move here from a sea-level city. For example, mountain living presents accessibility difficulties. You may not be able to find many amenities usually available in cities.

2. Chilly Weather

A higher altitude means thin hair, which leads to a cooler atmosphere. While many people love the cooler air in a mountainous area, they may not prefer it for a lifetime.

Besides the cold, the mountain village is often cloudy and rainy throughout the year. Cotacachi’s elevation can cause altitude sickness and unfortunately you probably won’t know if it will affect you until you are there.

3. Limited Medical Services

Excellent healthcare is among the most critical things people look for in an expat destination. Like most small mountain towns, medical services are basic in Cotacachi, Ecuador. At most, you will find an IESS hospital and a small private clinic in the town.

4. Small Town

4. Small Town

Cotacachi is a small Ecuadorian town, which some people may find unappealing. Although it is still bigger than Olón, Cotacachi is smaller than other cities.

Small-town life can make many individuals and families feel isolated. They may feel cut out or too far from the rest of the world. Additionally, small areas can create more opportunities for conflicts, rumors, etc.

Bottom Line

Cotacachi has seen an influx of foreigners, including visitors and expats/ retirees over the past decade. More people are picking the village town to relocate, for several reasons. Although small, Cotacachi has a lot to offer for expats. It is affordable, allowing expats to enjoy a comfortable life at a low price.

Additionally, the Ecuadorian town is beautiful and clean- precisely what a nature-loving expat individual or family might want! What else? You will find reliable transport, excellent shopping opportunities, and a large expat community in Cotacachi.

Lastly, the town is also incredibly safe, with a low crime rate. Cotacachi, Ecuador, also offers a lot to do in the town!

Watch Our Video About Cotacachi Ecuador

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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PLUS, there are several other free perks in our Live Abroad Toolkit we think you'll enjoy!
 

Homes For Sale in Cotacachi Ecuador (Real Estate Tour)

If you’re looking for a peaceful and serene place to live in Ecuador, then these homes for sale in Cotacachi Ecuador might be perfect for you!

Nestled in the Andean highlands of Ecuador, Cotacachi is a small town that has become increasingly popular among expats and retirees looking for a slower pace of life and a closer connection to nature.

Homes For Sale in Cotacachi EcuadorThe town is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, mild weather, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you enjoy hiking, birdwatching, or exploring local markets, Cotacachi has something for everyone.

Make sure to watch our Cotacachi Neighborhoods video where we give you a taste of what this charming town has to offer.

The weather in Cotacachi is mild and pleasant year-round, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Vanessa, one of Amy Priscos real estate agents on the ground in Cotacachi, and Amy Prisco herself were kind enough to show us several for-sale properties in the area.

We showcase various properties in and around Cotacachi. The first property is in La Casa de los Sueños, a picturesque condo development on the southeast side of town.

The second and fourth properties are located in Sisipacha, also known as the countryside, between Cotacachi and Otavalo, which is just a 10-minute drive from the center of town.

The third property is in the beautifully landscaped gated community of El Encanto, located just a 10-minute walk due north of Parque Central.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment, a spacious villa, or a charming country home, Amy and her team, can help you find the perfect property to suit your needs and budget.

Here’s the link to our Cotacachi Neighborhood Tour.

Amy Prisco and Vanessa were kind enough to show us several for sale properties in the area. To see more of Amy’s listings in Crucita, Salinas, Cotacachi and other parts of Ecuador, visit her website here.

You may also enjoy the Crucita Real Estate Tour with Amy.

Here’s a link to all the property tours we’ve done in Ecuador.

Watch Our Video About The Amazing Homes In Cotacachi Ecuador

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Cotacachi Ecuador Expat Neighborhood Tour

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Amelia And JP VLOG 271: When we were considering a move to Ecuador, Cotacachi was near the top of the list along with Cuenca and Loja.

However, back in 2016 when we were researching our move abroad, we couldn’t find very much information about the neighborhoods and housing options around Cotacachi, which is why we wanted to record this video showing you where the expats like to live.

Our next video is a real estate tour showing some of the houses in a few of these areas so hit the subscribe button and like this video so YouTube recommends it to you!

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Enter your email address here to get our Unconventional Newsletter with all sorts of timely information about living abroad, online income and achieving financial independence.
 
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WE WERE TOTALLY UNPREPARED FOR THIS AT LAGUNA CUICOCHA (near Cotacachi Ecuador)

Even though we have two wedding dates, our first NON-date is the most memorable and meaningful because it was so much fun and it was the start of something truly special.

This year, we were in Cotacachi, Ecuador for our anniversary and took the opportunity to film several videos while we were there.

Laguna Cuicocha or Cuicocha Lake is one of Ecuador’s most popular tourist attractions. It’s located a short 20 minute cab ride from the center of Cotacachi and costs $6 or $12 roundtrip.

If you want to hike the entire loop around the volcano crater lake, it’ll take about 5 hours so wear sunscreen, mosquito repellent, comfortable hiking boots, and several layers of clothing. Also take plenty of food and water.

After our hike, we went to Vandanam Indian Restaurant in Cotacachi, which is owned by Francis, our friend and Chinnu’s nephew. If you visit, be sure to tell him you saw this video!

Watch Our Video About Our Hike to Lake Cuicocha

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

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Enter your email address here to get our Unconventional Newsletter with all sorts of timely information about living abroad, online income and achieving financial independence.
 
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PLUS, there are several other free perks in our Live Abroad Toolkit we think you'll enjoy!
 

We Went to the World Famous Indigenous Market in Otavalo and This Happened! (near Cotacachi Ecuador)

A trip to Cotacachi wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Plaza de Ponchos, the world famous indigenous market in Otavalo, Ecuador!

Map: https://g.page/plaza-de-ponchos?share

We took a $6 cab ride from Cotacachi to the market on a Tuesday. The best day of the week to visit is on Saturday when they close off the streets and the market explodes to several times its normal size.

Unfortunately, Saturday was the only day we could film a real estate tour so we couldn’t go to the market that day. Besides, we try to avoid large crowds when we’re filming for a variety of reasons.

When you visit Plaza de Ponchos, be sure to tell Emelia that you saw her on our video!

Watch Our Video About The World Famous Indigenous Market in Otavalo

DISCLOSURE: THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS, MEANING WE GET A COMMISSION IF YOU DECIDE TO MAKE A PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS. THERE IS NO COST TO YOU AND SOMETIMES YOU'LL EVEN GET A DISCOUNT BY USING OUR LINK. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

 

Get the Free Move Abroad Checklist

Enter your email address here to get our Unconventional Newsletter with all sorts of timely information about living abroad, online income and achieving financial independence.
 
You'll also get immediate access to our Move Abroad Checklist that will walk you through the process of wrapping up your life at home and moving to a new country.

PLUS, there are several other free perks in our Live Abroad Toolkit we think you'll enjoy!